Dr Pepper BBQ Sauce Recipe
Dr Pepper BBQ Sauce Recipe combines soda, ketchup, vinegar, and spices for a unique, flavorful twist on classic barbecue sauce. It’s simmered with onions, brown sugar, molasses, and seasonings until thick and rich. This sweet, tangy, and smoky sauce complements grilled meats perfectly. Easy to make and versatile, it adds depth and a subtle fruity note to any barbecue dish.
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and chopping board
- Can opener (for Dr Pepper)
Ingredients
- 1 can 12 oz / 355 ml Dr Pepper (regular, not diet)
- 1 cup ketchup
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- ¼ cup packed brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons molasses
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper optional, for heat
- 1 teaspoon liquid smoke optional, for extra smokiness
- ½ teaspoon salt or to taste
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste tomato puree if in the UK
- ½ teaspoon hot sauce optional, or to taste
- 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon chipotle powder or chili flakes for heat
Instructions
Start By Cooking The Onions:
- Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onions and cook them until they soften and turn translucent, which should take about 5 minutes.
Mix In The Main Ingredients:
- Add the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, molasses, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, tomato paste, and Dr Pepper to the pan. Stir everything together well so it’s fully combined.
Add The Spices:
- Sprinkle in the garlic powder, chili powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. If you’re using cayenne, liquid smoke, or hot sauce, add those too. Give it a good stir so all the flavour blend evenly.
Let It Simmer:
- Turn the heat up just enough to bring the sauce to a gentle boil, then lower it to a simmer. Keep it uncovered and let it cook for about 25 to 30 minutes. Stir every now and then while it thickens and reduces a bit.
Taste And Tweak:
- Give the sauce a taste once it’s done simmering. If it needs a little more salt, heat, or sweetness, feel free to add what you like.
Cool Down And Store:
- Take the sauce off the heat and let it cool down. Pour it into a clean jar or container, then pop it in the fridge. The flavours will get even better after resting overnight. Use within a week or two for the best taste.
Notes
This Dr Pepper BBQ sauce offers a unique sweet and smoky flavor with a hint of spice. Perfect for glazing ribs, brushing on grilled chicken, or as a dipping sauce. Adjust the cayenne and hot sauce to suit your preferred heat level!