If you love the perfect balance of sweet, smoky, and spicy flavors, then this Raspberry Chipotle Sauce is about to become your new favorite condiment! Whether you use it as a raspberry chipotle BBQ sauce for grilling, a dipping sauce for appetizers, or a glaze for meats, this homemade version is incredibly versatile. Forget store-bought sauces like Fischer and Wieser Raspberry Chipotle Sauce—making your own from scratch allows you to control the heat, sweetness, and consistency to suit your taste buds.
This raspberry chipotle sauce is made with fresh or frozen raspberries, smoky chipotle peppers, a touch of honey, and a hint of vinegar for balance. It’s perfect for slathering on ribs, brushing over grilled chicken, or even drizzling over roasted vegetables. Ready to take your BBQ game to the next level? Let’s get started!
How to make Raspberry Chipotle Sauce
Ingredients for Raspberry Chipotle Sauce
Here’s what you’ll need to make the best homemade raspberry chipotle sauce:
- 2 cups fresh or frozen raspberries (thawed if frozen)
- 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (adjust for desired spice level)
- 2 tablespoons adobo sauce (from the can of chipotle peppers)
- 1/2 cup honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar (for a tangy balance)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (for depth of sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (for an extra smoky kick)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup water (adjust for thickness preference)
Instructions
1. Blend the Base
Begin by blending the raspberries, chipotle peppers, and adobo sauce in a food processor or blender until smooth. This will ensure a well-incorporated sauce with no large chunks of peppers.
2. Cook the Sauce
Transfer the blended mixture to a saucepan over medium heat. Add honey, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
3. Simmer and Thicken
Allow the sauce to simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally. If you prefer a thinner sauce, add a little more water. For a thicker sauce, let it reduce longer or add a cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 teaspoons water).
4. Strain (Optional)
For a smooth sauce, strain it through a fine-mesh sieve to remove raspberry seeds. If you like a chunkier texture, skip this step.
5. Adjust Seasoning
Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning as needed—add more honey for sweetness, vinegar for tanginess, or chipotle for heat.
6. Store and Serve
Let the sauce cool before transferring it to an airtight jar. Store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or freeze for longer storage.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Raspberry Chipotle Sauce
- Control the heat: Start with one chipotle pepper if you’re sensitive to spice and add more gradually.
- Use fresh raspberries for a vibrant flavor, but frozen ones work just as well.
- Balance the sweetness: If using very ripe raspberries, reduce the sugar slightly.
- Add citrus: A splash of fresh lime juice brightens the sauce beautifully.
- Try different sweeteners: Swap honey for maple syrup or agave for a vegan option.
Serving Suggestions / What to serve with
This raspberry chipotle BBQ sauce is incredibly versatile. Here are some delicious ways to use it:
- Glaze for meats – Brush it onto grilled chicken, ribs, pork chops, or even salmon.
- Burger topping – A spoonful on a burger adds a gourmet touch.
- Dip for appetizers – Serve with chicken tenders, mozzarella sticks, or even over cream cheese with crackers.
- Roasted vegetables – Drizzle over roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, or sweet potatoes.
- Pizza sauce alternative – A unique twist on BBQ chicken pizza.
- Marinade for tofu or tempeh – A great way to infuse flavor into plant-based proteins.
Shelf Life & Storage of Raspberry Chipotle Sauce
Proper storage ensures that your homemade raspberry chipotle sauce stays fresh and flavorful for as long as possible. Here’s how to store it:
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in a clean, airtight glass jar or container.
- Keep refrigerated for up to 2 weeks.
- Stir before using, as natural separation may occur.
Freezing Option
- Pour the cooled sauce into freezer-safe containers or ice cube trays for portioning.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Thaw overnight in the fridge before using.
Canning for Longer Storage
- If you want to preserve the sauce for months, you can process it using the water bath canning method.
- Make sure to adjust acidity by increasing the apple cider vinegar for proper preservation.
- Store canned jars in a cool, dark place for up to 6 months.
Recipe Variations & Customizations
- Make it extra spicy: Add cayenne pepper or an extra chipotle pepper.
- Give it a tropical twist: Blend in some mango or pineapple for a fruity kick.
- Swap raspberries for another berry: Blackberries or strawberries work well.
- Add depth with whiskey or bourbon: A splash of whiskey adds complexity.
FAQs About Raspberry Chipotle Sauce
Can I use raspberry preserves instead of fresh raspberries?
Yes! Substitute 1 cup of raspberry preserves and reduce the honey and sugar to balance the sweetness.
How spicy is this sauce?
The heat level depends on the number of chipotle peppers used. One pepper gives a mild warmth, while two or more make it spicier.
Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! Store it in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or freeze in portions for up to three months.
What can I use instead of adobo sauce?
If you don’t have adobo sauce, use a mix of smoked paprika, tomato paste, and vinegar.
Does this sauce work for canning?
Yes, but adjust the acidity by increasing the apple cider vinegar to ensure proper preservation.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx. 2 tbsp)
- Calories: 45
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Sugar: 9g
- Fat: 1g
- Protein: 0g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 85mg
Conclusion
Homemade raspberry chipotle sauce is a game-changer for anyone who loves a mix of sweet, smoky, and spicyflavors. Whether you’re looking for the perfect raspberry chipotle BBQ sauce for grilling, a unique dipping sauce, or a glaze for meats and veggies, this versatile sauce has you covered.
Have you tried this chipotle raspberry sauce? Let us know in the comments below how you used it! If you loved this recipe, check out our other homemade sauce recipes for more delicious inspiration.
