If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s both unique and oh-so-delicious, look no further than Slow Cooker Raspberry Chipotle Little Smokies. This dish is a delightful combination of sweet and spicy, making it the perfect addition to any gathering, game day, or holiday celebration. Picture this: juicy little smokies simmered in a luscious sauce made from grape jelly and raspberry chipotle BBQ sauce. They’re irresistible, and the best part? You can set them and forget them in the slow cooker!

Why This Slow Cooker Raspberry Chipotle Little Smokies Stands Out

What sets these little smokies apart is the unexpected blend of flavors. The sweet grape jelly beautifully balances the smokiness and spice of the raspberry chipotle BBQ sauce, creating a harmonious dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make. Just toss everything in the slow cooker, and let it work its magic. Whether you’re hosting a party or just enjoying a cozy night in, these little smokies are sure to impress.

What Goes Into Slow Cooker Raspberry Chipotle Little Smokies

To create this mouthwatering dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

17.25 oz jar Grape Jelly – A must-have for that classic sweetness.
18 oz bottle Raspberry Chipotle BBQ sauce – Adds a tangy and spicy kick.
43.6 oz Beef Little Smokies – A combination of a 15.6 oz size bag and a 28 oz size bag gives you plenty to go around.

These simple ingredients come together to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor and sure to be a hit at any event.

Toolbox for This Recipe

Before you get started, make sure you have the following tools on hand:

Slow Cooker – The star of the show that does all the hard work.
Measuring Cups – For accurate ingredient portions.
Spoon or Spatula – To stir the ingredients together.
Serving Dish – Perfect for showcasing your delicious creation.

Having these tools ready will ensure a smooth cooking process and a beautiful presentation.

Cook Slow Cooker Raspberry Chipotle Little Smokies Like This

Follow these easy steps to whip up a batch of Slow Cooker Raspberry Chipotle Little Smokies:

Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker

Begin by spraying the inside of your slow cooker with a non-stick cooking spray. This will help with easy cleanup later on.

Step 2: Combine the Sauces

In a mixing bowl, combine the 17.25 oz jar of grape jelly and the 18 oz bottle of raspberry chipotle BBQ sauce. Stir until the jelly is fully melted and incorporated into the sauce.

Step 3: Add the Little Smokies

Place the 43.6 oz of beef little smokies into the slow cooker. Pour the sauce mixture over the smokies, ensuring they are well coated.

Step 4: Slow Cook

Set your slow cooker to low and let it cook for 4-6 hours. If you’re in a hurry, you can set it to high for about 2-3 hours. The longer they cook, the more flavorful they become!

Step 5: Stir Occasionally

Every hour or so, give the smokies a gentle stir to ensure they are evenly coated in the sauce.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once they’re done cooking, serve the little smokies warm right from the slow cooker. They’re perfect for dipping with toothpicks or simply scooping out with a spoon.

Dairy-Free/Gluten-Free Swaps

If you’re looking to make this dish dairy-free or gluten-free, here are some easy swaps:

Ensure the BBQ sauce is labeled gluten-free.
Use a gluten-free grape jelly option if needed.
Check that your little smokies do not contain any gluten-based fillers.

These adjustments will let everyone enjoy this delicious dish without worry.

Don’t Do This

To ensure your Slow Cooker Raspberry Chipotle Little Smokies turn out perfectly, avoid the following:

Don’t skip the stirring. It helps the flavors meld together.
Don’t overcook them. They can become mushy if left too long.
Don’t use low-quality ingredients. Quality sauces and smokies make a big difference in taste.
Don’t forget to monitor the cooking time based on your slow cooker’s settings.

Following these tips will help you achieve the best results.

Best Ways to Store

If you have leftovers (which is unlikely, but it happens!), here’s how to store them:

Refrigerator: Place the leftover little smokies in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezer: You can freeze the little smokies in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat before serving.
Reheating: To reheat, place them back in the slow cooker on low until warmed through or heat in a microwave-safe dish.

Proper storage ensures you can enjoy these tasty little bites for days to come.

Ask & Learn

Can I use other types of BBQ sauce?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different flavors of BBQ sauce. Just keep in mind that the sweetness level may vary, so adjust the grape jelly accordingly.

Are these little smokies spicy?

The raspberry chipotle BBQ sauce gives them a mild kick, but it’s not overpowering. If you prefer less spice, you can use a milder BBQ sauce or adjust the amount of chipotle sauce.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the sauce and combine it with the little smokies the night before. Just store it in the fridge and transfer it to the slow cooker when you’re ready to cook.

What can I serve with these little smokies?

They pair wonderfully with a variety of sides such as veggie platters, chips and dip, or even a simple salad. They also work well as a topping for baked potatoes!

Hungry for More?

If you loved these Slow Cooker Raspberry Chipotle Little Smokies, be sure to check out other similar recipes like sweet and spicy chicken wings, honey garlic meatballs, or tangy BBQ pulled pork. Each recipe offers a unique flavor profile and is perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy night at home.

With their sweet and spicy flavor, these Slow Cooker Raspberry Chipotle Little Smokies are bound to become a staple at your next gathering. Their simplicity and incredible taste mean you can whip them up without any fuss, leaving you more time to enjoy with friends and family. Don’t forget to grab your favorite toothpicks and watch them disappear in no time!