Cherry Chipotle Jelly: A Sweet and Spicy Delight!

Name: Cherry Chipotle Jelly: A Sweet and Spicy Delight!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted; 1-2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced; 1 cup sugar; 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar; 1 packet pectin

Posted on July 2, 2025

Sweet Treats

Introduction to Cherry Chipotle Jelly

Welcome to the delightful world of Cherry Chipotle Jelly! If you’re like me, juggling a busy life while trying to whip up something special can feel overwhelming. This sweet and spicy jelly is the perfect solution for those hectic days when you want to impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a unique condiment that elevates any meal. Whether it’s a family dinner or a casual gathering, this jelly will surely be a hit. Let’s dive into this culinary adventure together!

Why You’ll Love This Cherry Chipotle Jelly

This Cherry Chipotle Jelly is a game-changer for busy moms and professionals alike. It’s quick to make, taking just 25 minutes from start to finish. The balance of sweet cherries and smoky chipotle creates a flavor explosion that will tantalize your taste buds. Plus, it’s versatile! Use it as a glaze for meats, a spread for cheese, or even a dip for crackers. You’ll love how it transforms everyday meals into something extraordinary!

Ingredients for Cherry Chipotle Jelly

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating your Cherry Chipotle Jelly. Here’s what you’ll need:

Fresh or Frozen Cherries: These are the star of the show! Sweet, juicy cherries bring a delightful flavor and vibrant color to your jelly. If fresh cherries are out of season, frozen ones work just as well.
Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce: These smoky, spicy peppers add a kick to your jelly. You can adjust the heat by using one or two peppers, depending on your spice tolerance.
Sugar: This sweetener balances the heat from the chipotle and enhances the natural sweetness of the cherries. Feel free to experiment with alternatives like honey or agave syrup for a different twist.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This tangy ingredient adds depth and brightness to the jelly. It also helps preserve the jelly, giving it a longer shelf life.
Pectin: This magical ingredient is what helps your jelly set. It’s a natural thickener derived from fruits, and you can find it in most grocery stores.

For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s move on to the fun part—making the jelly!

How to Make Cherry Chipotle Jelly

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the process of making this delightful Cherry Chipotle Jelly. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a jar of sweet and spicy goodness in no time!

Step 1: Combine Ingredients

Start by grabbing a medium saucepan. Toss in your pitted cherries, minced chipotle peppers, sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Stir everything together until well combined. The vibrant colors of the cherries and the rich red of the chipotle will make your kitchen feel like a culinary haven!

Step 2: Bring to a Boil

Next, place the saucepan over medium heat. Keep stirring frequently to prevent anything from sticking to the bottom. As the mixture heats up, you’ll notice the cherries releasing their juices. Once it reaches a rolling boil, you’re ready for the next step!

Step 3: Add Pectin

Now it’s time to add the pectin. Sprinkle it into the bubbling mixture while stirring continuously. This is where the magic happens! Continue boiling for about 1-2 minutes. You’ll see the mixture thicken, transforming into a luscious jelly. Don’t forget to keep an eye on it; you want that perfect consistency!

Step 4: Cool the Mixture

Once your jelly has thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat. Let it cool slightly for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial because it allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be simply irresistible!

Step 5: Jar the Jelly

Now comes the fun part—jarring your jelly! Carefully pour the warm mixture into sterilized jars. Make sure to leave a little space at the top. Seal them tightly with lids. If you’re feeling fancy, you can even add a cute label to each jar!

Step 6: Refrigerate

Finally, let the jars cool completely at room temperature. Once they’re cool, pop them in the refrigerator. Your Cherry Chipotle Jelly will be ready to enjoy after a few hours. It can be stored for up to three months, but I doubt it will last that long!

Tips for Success

Use ripe cherries for the best flavor; they’ll make your jelly taste divine.
Don’t skip the pectin; it’s essential for that perfect jelly consistency.
Adjust the chipotle peppers to suit your family’s spice preference.
Make sure your jars are properly sterilized to ensure freshness.
Label your jars with the date to keep track of freshness.

Equipment Needed

Medium Saucepan: A regular pot works too, just ensure it’s large enough to hold all the ingredients.
Wooden Spoon: Use any sturdy spoon for stirring; a spatula can work in a pinch.
Sterilized Jars: Mason jars are ideal, but any glass jar with a tight seal will do.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Essential for accuracy, but you can eyeball it if you’re feeling adventurous!

Variations of Cherry Chipotle Jelly

Berry Blend: Mix in other berries like raspberries or blueberries for a fruity twist.
Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an aromatic touch.
Low-Sugar Option: Substitute sugar with a sugar alternative like stevia or monk fruit for a healthier version.
Spicy Kick: For those who love heat, add a dash of cayenne pepper or a few extra chipotle peppers.
Smoky BBQ Jelly: Incorporate a splash of liquid smoke for a deeper smoky flavor, perfect for grilling season.

Serving Suggestions for Cherry Chipotle Jelly

Spread it on a warm baguette topped with cream cheese for a delightful appetizer.
Use as a glaze for grilled chicken or pork to elevate your main dish.
Pair with a cheese platter featuring sharp cheddar or brie for a perfect balance.
Serve alongside crackers and sliced apples for a refreshing snack.
Mix into cocktails for a unique sweet and spicy twist.

FAQs about Cherry Chipotle Jelly

As you embark on your Cherry Chipotle Jelly journey, you might have a few questions. Here are some common queries I’ve encountered, along with helpful answers to guide you along the way!

Can I use frozen cherries for this recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen cherries work just as well as fresh ones. They’re often picked at peak ripeness and can save you time in the kitchen.

How spicy is Cherry Chipotle Jelly?

The spice level depends on how many chipotle peppers you use. Start with one for a mild kick, and add more if you’re feeling adventurous!

How long does Cherry Chipotle Jelly last?

When stored in the refrigerator, your jelly can last up to three months. Just make sure to keep it sealed tightly!

What can I pair with Cherry Chipotle Jelly?

This jelly is incredibly versatile! It pairs beautifully with meats, cheeses, and even as a unique addition to cocktails. The possibilities are endless!

Can I make this jelly without pectin?

While pectin helps achieve that perfect jelly consistency, you can try using natural fruit pectin from apples or citrus. Just keep in mind that the texture may vary.

Final Thoughts

Creating Cherry Chipotle Jelly is more than just a cooking project; it’s a delightful experience that brings joy to your kitchen. The sweet and spicy flavors dance together, making every bite a celebration. Whether you’re sharing it with family or gifting a jar to a friend, this jelly is sure to impress. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to elevate your meals without spending hours in the kitchen. I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I do. Here’s to sweet moments and spicy adventures in your culinary journey!