Cherry Coke BBQ Sauce
Cherry Coke BBQ Sauce is a sweet and tangy condiment blending the rich flavours of cherry, and traditional barbecue spices. It offers a unique twist with a fruity undertone and caramelised sweetness from the soda, enhancing grilled meats, burgers, and ribs. Perfect for adding a bold, flavorful punch to any BBQ dish.
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Blender or immersion blender (optional, for smoother texture)
- Whisk (for cornstarch slurry, if used)
Ingredients
- 1 cup Cherry Coke
- 1 cup ketchup
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- ¾ cup dried cherries
- 2 tablespoons molasses
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garbic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt or to taste
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 –2 tablespoons water
Instructions
Combine Base Ingredients
- In a medium saucepan, add the Cherry Coke, ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, molasses. Stir well to combine.
Add Dry Seasonings
- Stir in the dried cherries, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt.
Simmer the Sauce
- Place the saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Let it simmer gently for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will allow the flavors to blend and the cherries to soften.
Blend (Optional)
- For a smooth sauce, use an immersion blender directly in the pot or transfer the sauce to a blender once slightly cooled. Blend until smooth.
Thicken (Optional)
- If a thicker sauce is desired, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1–2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Stir it into the simmering sauce and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until thickened.
Taste and Adjust
- Taste the sauce and adjust salt or sweetness as needed.
Cool and Store
- Let the sauce cool slightly, then transfer it to a jar or airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.