Bobby Flay’s cranberry chutney is a delightful blend of tart cranberries, warm spices, and a hint of sweetness. This versatile condiment pairs beautifully with holiday meals, roasted meats, and even sandwiches. If you’re looking for a recipe that brings a burst of flavor to your table, this step-by-step guide will help you create a perfect cranberry chutney inspired by Bobby Flay.
What is Bobby Flay Cranberry Chutney?
Cranberry chutney is a sweet and tangy relish made with fresh cranberries, aromatic spices, citrus, and a touch of sweetness from sugar or honey. Unlike traditional cranberry sauce, chutney has a more complex depth of flavor, thanks to ingredients like ginger, cinnamon, and vinegar. Bobby Flay’s version enhances the classic chutney with bold flavors that complement both savory and sweet dishes.

Other Bobby Flay Recipes
- Bobby Flay Stuffed Peppers
- Bobby Flay Chicken Milanese
- Bobby Flay Mushroom Stroganoff
- Bobby Flay Corned Beef and Cabbage
Why You Love This Recipe
- Balanced flavor profile – The combination of sweet, tart, and spicy elements makes this chutney incredibly flavorful.
- Easy to make – With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly.
- Versatile pairing options – Perfect with meats, cheeses, sandwiches, or as a holiday side dish.
- Make-ahead friendly – The flavors develop over time, making it ideal for preparing in advance.
- Healthier alternative – Uses natural ingredients without artificial preservatives.
Ingredients Needed to Make Bobby Flay Cranberry Chutney
- Fresh cranberries – 12 ounces
- Granulated sugar – ¾ cup
- Brown sugar – ¼ cup
- Apple cider vinegar – ½ cup
- Orange zest – 1 teaspoon
- Orange juice – ½ cup, freshly squeezed
- Ginger (grated) – 1 tablespoon
- Cinnamon stick – 1
- Cloves (ground) – ¼ teaspoon
- Golden raisins – ½ cup
- Red onion (finely chopped) – ½ cup
- Jalapeño (minced, optional) – 1 small
- Salt – ½ teaspoon
Instructions to Prepare Bobby Flay Cranberry Chutney
- Heat the ingredients – In a medium saucepan, combine apple cider vinegar, orange juice, both sugars and salt over medium heat. Stir until sugars dissolve.
- Add the aromatics – Stir in grated ginger, orange zest, cinnamon stick, and ground cloves. Let it simmer for a minute.
- Incorporate cranberries – Add fresh cranberries to the saucepan and cook until they begin to burst.
- Mix in the extras – Stir in chopped red onion, golden raisins, and minced jalapeño for added depth of flavor.
- Simmer to thicken – Reduce heat and let the mixture cook for 10-15 minutes until thickened.
- Cool and serve – Remove from heat, discard the cinnamon stick, and let it cool before serving or storing.

What Goes Well With Bobby Flay Cranberry Chutney
Perfect with roasted meats
This chutney pairs wonderfully with turkey, chicken, pork, and even beef for a tangy contrast.
Delicious with cheese boards
Serve it alongside creamy brie, sharp cheddar, or goat cheese for a sophisticated appetizer.
Enhances sandwiches and wraps
Spread it on turkey sandwiches, grilled cheese, or wraps for an extra burst of flavor.
Great topping for breakfast dishes
Spoon it over oatmeal, pancakes, or yogurt for a fruity twist.
Works well with vegetarian dishes
Pair it with roasted vegetables, lentil dishes, or grain bowls for a sweet-savory balance.
Pro Tips to Make Perfect Bobby Flay Cranberry Chutney
Adjust the sweetness to taste
If you prefer a less sweet chutney, reduce the sugar slightly or use honey instead.
Let the flavors develop
For the best taste, allow the chutney to sit for a few hours or overnight before serving.
Use fresh cranberries for better texture
Fresh cranberries provide a better consistency than frozen ones, though both work well.
Add a kick with jalapeño or chili flakes
For those who love a little heat, finely chopped jalapeño or chili flakes add a spicy contrast.
Experiment with different dried fruits
Try adding chopped apricots, figs, or dates instead of raisins for variety.
Enhance with warm spices
A pinch of nutmeg or star anise can deepen the chutney’s flavor profile.
Variations of Bobby Flay Cranberry Chutney
Apple cranberry chutney
Add diced apples for extra sweetness and a slightly chunkier texture.
Spiced cranberry chutney
Increase the cinnamon and cloves, and add a hint of cardamom for a bolder spice blend.
Citrus-infused chutney
Use a combination of lemon and lime zest for a more citrus-forward flavor.
Nutty cranberry chutney
Stir in toasted pecans or walnuts for added crunch and richness.
Balsamic cranberry chutney
Swap apple cider vinegar for balsamic vinegar to create a more complex, deep flavor.
Savory cranberry chutney
Reduce the sugar and increase the onions for a chutney that’s less sweet and more savory.
Storage Guidelines for Bobby Flay Cranberry Chutney
Refrigerate for freshness
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Freeze for long-term storage
Place chutney in a freezer-safe container and store for up to 3 months.
Use sterilized jars for preservation
For extended shelf life, store chutney in sterilized glass jars and refrigerate.
Keep portions ready
Freeze in small portions to thaw only what you need at a time.
Reheating Tips for Bobby Flay Cranberry Chutney
Warm on the stovetop
Heat gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Microwave for quick use
Reheat in a microwave-safe dish, covered, for 20-30 seconds.
Add a splash of liquid if thickened
If the chutney becomes too thick, add a little water or orange juice while reheating.
Serve cold for a refreshing taste
This chutney tastes great cold, especially with cheese boards or sandwiches.
FAQs
Can I make cranberry chutney ahead of time?
Yes, cranberry chutney actually tastes better when made in advance. The flavors deepen and meld together after sitting for a few hours or overnight. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks for the best taste.
How do I thicken cranberry chutney if it’s too runny?
Let the chutney simmer longer on low heat until the excess liquid evaporates. If it still needs thickening, mash some of the cranberries with a spoon or add a small amount of pectin or cornstarch slurry while stirring continuously.
Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh ones?
Fresh or frozen cranberries work best, but dried cranberries can be used in a pinch. Soak them in hot water or orange juice for about 15 minutes to rehydrate before cooking. Keep in mind that dried cranberries are sweeter, so reduce the sugar slightly.
What can I use instead of apple cider vinegar in cranberry chutney?
White vinegar, red wine vinegar, or balsamic vinegar are great alternatives. If you prefer a milder acidity, use fresh lemon juice instead, adjusting the quantity to taste.
Final Words
Bobby Flay’s cranberry chutney is a fantastic addition to any meal, offering a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and spiced flavors. Whether you use it as a holiday side dish, a sandwich spread, or a topping for meats, this homemade chutney is sure to impress. Give it a try and enjoy a burst of flavor in every bite!
PrintBobby Flay Cranberry Chutney
Cranberry chutney is a sweet and tangy relish made with fresh cranberries, aromatic spices, citrus, and a touch of sweetness from sugar or honey. Unlike traditional cranberry sauce, chutney has a more complex depth of flavor, thanks to ingredients like ginger, cinnamon, and vinegar. Bobby Flay’s version enhances the classic chutney with bold flavors that complement both savory and sweet dishes.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 15
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- Fresh cranberries – 12 ounces
- Granulated sugar – ¾ cup
- Brown sugar – ¼ cup
- Apple cider vinegar – ½ cup
- Orange zest – 1 teaspoon
- Orange juice – ½ cup, freshly squeezed
- Ginger (grated) – 1 tablespoon
- Cinnamon stick – 1
- Cloves (ground) – ¼ teaspoon
- Golden raisins – ½ cup
- Red onion (finely chopped) – ½ cup
- Jalapeño (minced, optional) – 1 small
- Salt – ½ teaspoon
Instructions
- Heat the ingredients – In a medium saucepan, combine apple cider vinegar, orange juice, both sugars, and salt over medium heat. Stir until sugars dissolve.
- Add the aromatics – Stir in grated ginger, orange zest, cinnamon stick, and ground cloves. Let it simmer for a minute.
- Incorporate cranberries – Add fresh cranberries to the saucepan and cook until they begin to burst.
- Mix in the extras – Stir in chopped red onion, golden raisins, and minced jalapeño for added depth of flavor.
- Simmer to thicken – Reduce heat and let the mixture cook for 10-15 minutes until thickened.
- Cool and serve – Remove from heat, discard the cinnamon stick, and let it cool before serving or storing.