Cherry Bomb BBQ Sauce is a sweet, spicy, and smoky barbecue sauce made with real cherries as the star ingredient.
I made this Cherry Bomb BBQ Sauce because I wanted something exciting for summer cookouts. I saw a chef using fresh cherries in a savory glaze, and that moment sparked the idea.
This Cherry Bomb BBQ Sauce balances sweetness, heat, and depth in every spoonful. The real specialty is the mix of cherries and smoked paprika that gives it an unforgettable kick. I decided to share it now and walk through each step so you can enjoy it too.
What Does Cherry Bomb BBQ Sauce Taste Like?
Cherry Bomb BBQ Sauce delivers a bold and balanced flavour that stands out with every bite. It starts with the natural sweetness of cherries, followed by a tangy edge from vinegar and a deep richness from molasses.
The smoky heat comes in gently, often from smoked paprika or chipotle, giving it a warm, spicy finish without overpowering the fruit.
It’s not too sweet or too spicy just the right mix. This Cherry Bomb BBQ Sauce adds depth and excitement to grilled meats, burgers, and sandwiches.
How To Prepare Cherry Bomb BBQ Sauce?
Recipe Overview
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Course: Condiment / Sauce
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: American / BBQ
Yield: About 2 cups
Equipment Needed
- Medium saucepan
- Blender or immersion blender
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh or frozen pitted cherries
- 1 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons molasses
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ cup apple cider vinegar
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- ¼ cup water
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon chilli powder
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
How To Make Cherry Bomb BBQ Sauce?
1. If using fresh cherries, pit them. If frozen, thaw slightly. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the cherries, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, molasses, Dijon mustard, and water. Stir well to combine.
3. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, chilli powder, cayenne pepper, ground black pepper, salt, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix thoroughly.
4. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes. Stir occasionally until the cherries soften and the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Use a blender or immersion blender to puree the sauce until smooth or leave a bit chunky depending on your preference.
6. Taste and adjust salt, sweetness, or heat if needed. Allow the sauce to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.
Special Note
I love how the fresh cherries balance the heat from the cayenne and chilli powder, creating a complex flavour profile that’s perfect on ribs, chicken, and even grilled veggies.
If you want to dial up the heat, add a bit more cayenne or a splash of hot sauce. For a milder version, reduce the chilli powder and cayenne.
Nutrition Facts Of Cherry Bomb BBQ Sauce
| Nutrition | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 50 |
| Fat | 1g |
| Saturated Fat | 0g |
| Sodium | 180mg |
| Sugars | 9g |
| Protein | 0g |
| Carbohydrates | 11g |
Secrets To Perfect Cherry Bomb BBQ Sauce
➢ Use fresh or high quality frozen cherries to ensure natural sweetness and bright flavor.
➢ Balance sweetness and acidity by carefully measuring brown sugar and apple cider vinegar.
➢ Incorporate smoked paprika and cayenne pepper for a gentle smoky heat that complements the cherries.
➢ Simmer the sauce slowly to allow flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken naturally.
➢ Blend the sauce to the desired texture, either smooth or slightly chunky, to enhance mouthfeel and presentation.
Amazing Serving Ideas
➣ Brush Cherry Bomb BBQ Sauce over grilled chicken for a sweet and spicy glaze.
➣ Use it as a dipping sauce for crispy fries or onion rings to add bold flavor.
➣ Drizzle over roasted vegetables to give them a smoky, fruity twist.
➣ Mix the sauce into pulled pork or shredded beef for a delicious sandwich filling.
➣ Serve alongside burgers as a flavorful condiment that elevates every bite.
Health Benefits Of Cherry Bomb BBQ Sauce
➤ Cherries in the sauce contain antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and support heart health.
➤ The apple cider vinegar promotes digestion and helps balance blood sugar levels.
➤ Olive oil adds healthy fats that improve brain function and reduce bad cholesterol.
➤ Spices like cayenne pepper can boost metabolism and improve circulation naturally.
➤ Garlic powder provides immune boosting properties and supports overall wellness.
Why This Cherry Bomb BBQ Sauce Is A Must Try?
This Cherry Bomb BBQ Sauce stands out because of its unique combination of sweet cherries and smoky spices.
The rich, deep flavour create a delightful balance that enhances any grilled dish. The sauce brings a fresh twist to traditional barbecue, making every bite exciting and memorable.
The blend of tangy vinegar, molasses, and heat from spices adds layers of complexity. This Cherry Bomb BBQ Sauce adds bold flavour and a touch of elegance to meals, making it an essential addition to any barbecue lover’s recipe collection.
Storage And Shelf Life
Store Cherry Bomb BBQ Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Properly chilled, the sauce can last up to two weeks.
For longer storage, freeze the sauce in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to three months. Before using, thaw in the refrigerator and stir well.
Always use clean utensils to prevent contamination and preserve the sauce’s flavor and quality throughout its shelf life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Cherry Bomb BBQ Sauce Be Made Ahead Of Time?
Yes, it can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Can I Use Fresh Cherries Instead Of Freeze?
Fresh cherries work great and provide a vibrant flavour when in season.
How Spicy Is The Sauce?
The heat level is moderate, balanced by the sweetness of the cherries.
Can This Sauce Be Used As A Marinade?
Absolutely, it adds great flavour when used to marinate meats before grilling.
Is This Sauce Gluten Free?
Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten free unless substituted otherwise.
Cherry Bomb BBQ Sauce was such an easy and fun experience, and the flavour was absolutely amazing. I’m so happy with how it turned out sweet, smoky, and just the right amount of heat.
I hope this recipe inspires you to try it yourself. It’s quick to make and adds something special to any meal. Now it’s your turn to give it a go. Make it soon and tell me just how delicious it turned out in your kitchen.
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Cherry Bomb BBQ Sauce
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- If using fresh cherries, pit them. If frozen, thaw slightly. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the cherries, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, molasses, Dijon mustard, and water. Stir well to combine.
- Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, chilli powder, cayenne pepper, ground black pepper, salt, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix thoroughly.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes. Stir occasionally until the cherries soften and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Use a blender or immersion blender to puree the sauce until smooth or leave a bit chunky depending on your preference.
- Taste and adjust salt, sweetness, or heat if needed. Allow the sauce to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.
Notes
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 50 | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 0g | Sodium: 180mg | Sugars: 9g | Protein: 0g | Carbohydrates: 11g“Hi, I’m Samia, a passionate recipe creator with 5 years of experience in crafting delicious, unique dishes. My love for cooking has led me to explore a variety of cuisines, combining flavors to create memorable meals for every occasion. Whether it’s a simple weeknight dinner or an elaborate feast, I believe in making every dish special. Join me on my culinary journey as I share easy-to-follow recipes and tips that will inspire your cooking and bring joy to your kitchen!”