Shake Shack Cherry Pepper Relish Recipe

If you love the bold flavor of the cherry peppers atop the Shake Shack SmokeShack burger — sweet, tangy, and just a bit hot — then this Shake Shack Cherry Pepper Relish Recipe is your new secret weapon. This relish takes those chopped cherry peppers that give the SmokeShack its signature kick and turns them into a jar-worthy condiment you can use on burgers, sandwiches, grilled chicken, or even roasted veggies.

With the perfect balance of sweetness, acidity, and heat, you’ll be able to recreate that restaurant-quality taste right in your own kitchen.

Why You’ll Love Shake Shack Cherry Pepper Relish Recipe

The cherry pepper relish at Shake Shack is what makes their SmokeShack burger stand out. It’s mildly spicy, sweet, and tangy — the perfect contrast to a juicy beef patty and melted cheese. The peppers help cut through the richness of the burger while adding an addictive flavor punch.

This homemade version captures all those qualities in one easy recipe. It’s simple, fresh, and incredibly versatile. You can use it as a topping, a dip, or even mix it into sauces for an extra layer of flavor.

Ingredients

Yield: 2 to 3 cups (enough for several burgers or meals)

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
1 clove garlic, minced
1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
40 to 50 fresh cherry peppers (or jarred pickled cherry peppers) — deseeded for mild heat, or keep some seeds for more spice
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
¼ teaspoon sea salt (adjust to taste)
⅓ cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons honey
½ cup white wine vinegar
Optional: 1–2 tablespoons of pickling brine (if using jarred cherry peppers)

Ingredient Notes

Cherry peppers: These are small, round, and slightly spicy. They bring the perfect combination of sweetness and heat. If you can’t find fresh ones, pickled cherry peppers work beautifully.
Sugar and honey: They balance the vinegar and spice, creating that irresistible sweet-tangy profile.
White wine vinegar: Adds brightness and a touch of acidity.
Garlic and onion: Bring depth and savory notes that round out the relish.

Equipment You’ll Need

A medium nonstick or stainless-steel skillet
A sharp knife and cutting board
Measuring spoons and cups
A clean jar or airtight container for storing
A food processor (optional, for a finer texture)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Peppers

If you’re using fresh cherry peppers, wash them well. Cut off the tops, remove the stems, and deseed if you prefer a milder relish. For more heat, keep some seeds in. Roughly chop the peppers into small pieces, about ¼ inch in size.

If using jarred pickled cherry peppers, drain them (and save a tablespoon or two of the brine if you want to use it later). Chop finely.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in your skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté for about 3–4 minutes until the onion turns translucent and fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Peppers

Stir in the chopped cherry peppers. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring often, until the peppers soften and release their juices.

Step 4: Season and Sweeten

Add the crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, sugar, and honey. Stir to combine. Let the mixture cook for about 3 minutes, allowing the sugar to dissolve and form a light glaze.

Step 5: Add Vinegar

Reduce the heat to low. Slowly pour in the white wine vinegar (and the pickling brine, if using). Stir well. Let it simmer for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture slightly thickens.

Step 6: Cool and Store

Remove the skillet from the heat and let the relish cool to room temperature. Transfer it into a clean jar or an airtight container. Seal tightly and refrigerate. The flavors will deepen and develop even more after a few hours or overnight.

How to Use Shake Shack Cherry Pepper Relish

This relish is incredibly versatile. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy it:

1. On Burgers

Just like the original Shake Shack SmokeShack, spoon a generous amount over a cheeseburger or bacon burger. The sweetness and heat balance the fatty richness perfectly.

2. On Hot Dogs or Sausages

Add a spoonful of relish to grilled sausages or hot dogs for a tangy, spicy upgrade.

3. With Grilled Meats

Try it over grilled chicken, pork chops, or even fish. The acidity cuts through the richness and brightens every bite.

4. In Sandwiches or Wraps

Spread it on your bread or wrap for a sweet-spicy flavor boost that makes every bite more exciting.

5. On Roasted Vegetables

Top roasted or grilled vegetables like cauliflower, zucchini, or eggplant with this relish to give them a flavorful kick.

6. On Cheese Boards

Pair this relish with sharp cheddar, gouda, or creamy goat cheese. The combination of sweet, tangy, and spicy complements cheese perfectly.

Storage and Shelf Life

Store your cherry pepper relish in a clean, sealed jar in the refrigerator.
It will stay fresh for about 2 weeks.
Always use a clean spoon to scoop it out.
If you notice any off smell or mold, discard it immediately.
For longer storage, freeze the relish in small containers or ice cube trays for up to 2 months.

Tips and Variations

Control the heat: Remove all seeds for mild relish, or leave some in for more spice.
Adjust sweetness and tang: Taste after adding vinegar and sugar — balance it to your preference. Some like it sweeter, others more tangy.
Texture: For a chunkier relish, chop everything by hand. For a smoother one, pulse a few times in a food processor.
Try different peppers: If you can’t find cherry peppers, peppadew or banana peppers make good substitutes.
Add herbs: A pinch of oregano or parsley can add an herbal freshness to your relish.

The Flavor Science Behind It

This Shake Shack Cherry Pepper Relish Recipe works because it balances the key elements of flavor:

Sweetness from sugar and honey balances the pepper heat.
Acidity from vinegar brightens and cuts through richness.
Heat from cherry peppers and flakes adds excitement.
Savory depth from onions and garlic keeps it grounded.

The result is a condiment that hits all the right notes — spicy, sweet, tangy, and perfectly complementary to burgers and grilled dishes.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use jarred pickled cherry peppers instead of fresh?
Yes! Jarred cherry peppers are convenient and have that tangy flavor built in. Just drain them before using and adjust the vinegar and sugar to taste.

2. How spicy is this relish?
It depends on the peppers and how many seeds you keep. Cherry peppers are milder than jalapeños but still bring a pleasant kick.

3. Can I make this relish ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, it tastes even better after resting for 12–24 hours as the flavors meld together.

4. Is this recipe vegan or gluten-free?
Yes! It’s naturally gluten-free. To make it vegan, simply substitute maple syrup or agave nectar for honey.

5. Can I can or preserve it for long-term storage?
Yes, but you’ll need to follow proper canning guidelines. This version is best as a refrigerator relish for short-term use.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Shake Shack Cherry Pepper Relish

Don’t overcook the peppers — you want them soft but still with a little bite.
Taste as you go. The perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy depends on your preference.
Let it rest overnight in the fridge before using. It tastes better the next day.
Use high-quality vinegar for a cleaner, brighter flavor.
Try brushing a little relish over grilled meats while they rest — it adds a burst of flavor and moisture.

Final Thoughts

This Shake Shack Cherry Pepper Relish Recipe isn’t just a condiment — it’s a flavor enhancer that transforms ordinary meals into gourmet experiences. The combination of sweet, spicy, and tangy notes mimics the signature relish used in Shake Shack’s famous SmokeShack burger.

Whether you’re grilling burgers, layering sandwiches, or topping roasted vegetables, this homemade relish will bring that same restaurant-style magic to your table.

So grab your peppers, fire up your skillet, and make your own batch of this bold, zesty cherry pepper relish. Once you try it, you’ll want to keep a jar in your fridge at all times.

Enjoy your homemade Shake Shack Cherry Pepper Relish — and get ready to elevate every bite! 🌶️🍔

Shake Shack Cherry Pepper Relish Recipe — A Zesty Copycat to Elevate Burgers

Why You’ll Love Shake Shack Cherry Pepper Relish Recipe