Fire up your grill and get ready for a BBQ sauce that is unlike any other. This Cherry Chipotle BBQ Sauce brings the perfect balance of sweet cherries, smoky chipotle heat, and classic BBQ depth. It’s a bold sauce that’ll have your guests asking what’s in it – and coming back for seconds!
I created this Cherry Chipotle BBQ Sauce because I wanted something bold, something that stood out from the usual lineup. Fruity, smoky, and packing real heat, this sauce hits all the right notes.
As the cherries simmer down, they naturally thicken the sauce into a sticky glaze that clings beautifully to ribs, wings, and anything off the grill. A touch of honey and soy sauce adds balance, while the chipotle and spices bring the fire.
This cherry BBQ sauce is a game-changer. It’s unique, addictive, and ready to take your next cookout up a notch.
Sweet Heat: The combination of fresh cherries and chipotle creates a complex flavor profile that hits different parts of your palate. The natural sweetness of cherries mellows out the intense heat of chipotles, while still letting that signature smoky flavor shine through.
Pairs with BBQ: The careful balance of honey, sugar, and soy sauce builds a rich base that clings perfectly to your meat. The sugars caramelize during cooking, creating those coveted charred bits on your grilled foods.
Simple Preparation: Making homemade sauce for BBQ is actually quite simple. You will never go back to the store-bought options again!
Key Ingredients
Cherries— Frozen or fresh cherries both work well here.
Chipotles in Adobo— These smoked chipotle peppers add heat and smoke to the sauce.
Honey & White Sugar — Use wildflower honey if you have it, or you can use agave syrup. The combo of honey and sugar will balance out all the flavors.
Soy Sauce — For a kick of umami flavor.
Garlic Powder & Powdered Ginger — For warmth and aroma.
Salt — Add to taste, but don’t add too much since the soy sauce has salt, too!
Apple Cider Vinegar — Brightens and balances all flavors.
Substitutions or Variations for Flavor
Berries: This recipe works with most berries, specifically blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, and cranberries. Cooking times will vary, just make sure the berries are quite soft and have released their liquid while simmering!
Honey: Replace honey with maple syrup for a deeper sweetness with a slightly different flavor.
Alcohol: Add bourbon or whiskey (about 2 tablespoons) for extra depth of flavor.
Ginger: Fresh ginger will give this recipe an extra punch, make sure to grate it before adding it in.
How to Make Cherry Chipotle BBQ Sauce
Simmer & Blend. Place all of the ingredients except the vinegar into a medium saucepan over medium heat. Once it just boils, lower the heat to a simmer. Cook for about 20-25 minutes, stirring on occasion to prevent burning. The berries will break down and completely soften, releasing liquid into the pan. Allow it to cool slightly, and puree the sauce in blender until completely smooth. Stir in the vinegar, taste and adjust if needed.
Strain. (Optional) Pass the sauce through a strainer to remove any pulp, creating a silky smooth BBQ sauce.
Top Tips
Straining the sauce is highly recommended for most uses, as it will be extremely smooth and easier to use in most applications.
Add a little water to the blender as needed. Depending on the amount of liquid released from the cherries, it may require a little help to blend smoothly.
For less heat, start with just one chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, and work your way up if you need more.
Cherry chipotle BBQ sauce is a sweet, smoky, and spicy blend. The cherries bring a rich fruitiness, while the chipotle adds a deep, smoky heat. The added ginger and soy bring a savory spice that takes it to the next level. It’s bold, balanced, and perfect for glazing meats or dipping.
How spicy is cherry chipotle BBQ sauce?
It has a medium level of heat, thanks to the chipotle peppers. Adjust the chipotles up or down to taste, depending on your heat tolerance!
Is this BBQ sauce gluten-free?
It can be. Just make sure to use a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. Always check your labels to be sure.
What meats pair well with cherry chipotle BBQ sauce?
This sauce pairs perfectly with pork ribs, grilled chicken, turkey, brisket, and even meatballs or burgers. It’s also a great dip for grilled sausages or used as a glaze for wings.
Can I use cherry preserves or jam instead of fresh cherries?
You can, but it will change the flavor and sweetness. If using preserves, reduce the amount of added sugar or honey, and be aware that it may not have the same natural texture.
More Sauce Recipes to Try
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Place all of the ingredients except the vinegar into a medium saucepan over medium heat. Once it just boils, lower the heat to a simmer. Cook for about 20-25 minutes, stirring on occasion to prevent burning. The berries will break down and completely soften, releasing liquid into the pan. Allow it to cool slightly, and puree the sauce in blender until completely smooth. Stir in the vinegar, taste and adjust if needed.
(Optional) Pass the sauce through a strainer to remove any pulp, creating a silky smooth BBQ sauce.
Notes
Straining the sauce is highly recommended for most uses, as it will be extremely smooth and easier to use in most applications.
Add a little water to the blender as needed. Depending on the amount of liquid released from the cherries, it may require a little help to blend smoothly.
