Cheerwine BBQ Sauce Recipe
Cheerwine BBQ Sauce blends the unique cherry flavour of Cheerwine soda with traditional barbecue ingredients. Cheerwine, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and a touch of cayenne. Simmer until thickened. This sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy sauce pairs perfectly with grilled meats, especially pork or chicken, adding a Southern twist.
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon or whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board and knife
Ingredients
- 1 cup Cheerwine soda 12 oz
- 1 cup ketchup
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- ¼ medium sweet onion or shallot roughly chopped
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika optional, for smokiness
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon molasses
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon liquid smoke
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: ¼ to ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper or hot sauce for heat
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Roughly chop the sweet onion or shallot.
- Saute Onion: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Base Ingredients: Stir in the ketchup, Cheerwine soda, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, molasses, and Dijon mustard.
- Season: Add garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if using), liquid smoke, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper or hot sauce (if desired).
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook gently, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens to your preferred consistency, about 15-20 minutes.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning as needed more salt, sugar, or heat depending on your preference.
- Cool and Store: Remove from heat. Let the sauce cool slightly before transferring to a clean jar or bottle. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.