Root Beer BBQ Sauce Recipe
Root Beer BBQ Sauce Recipe combines root beer, ketchup, vinegar, spices, and a touch of molasses to create a sweet, tangy, and slightly smoky sauce. Simmering the ingredients develops a rich, smooth texture that enhances meats, sandwiches, and roasted vegetables. Simple to prepare, it stores well in the refrigerator, offering a unique twist on traditional barbecue flavors.
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk or silicone spatula
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Wooden spoon for stirring
- Airtight jar or bottle (for storage)
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups root beer
- 1 cup ketchup
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- ¼ cup orange juice fresh or bottled
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon molasses
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dry mustard
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt to taste
Instructions
Mix The Base
- Pour the root beer, ketchup, orange juice, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and molasses into a medium saucepan.
Add The Spices
- Stir in the Worcestershire sauce along with the smoked paprika, ginger, garlic powder, onion powder, dry mustard, black pepper, cayenne (optional), and salt.
Warm And Whisk
- Set the pan over medium heat and whisk everything together until the mixture is smooth.
Let It Simmer
- Bring the sauce to a light simmer, then turn the heat down low. Cook for about 15–20 minutes, giving it an occasional stir, until it thickens and reduces.
Cool And Store
- Take the pan off the heat and let the sauce cool. Transfer it to a jar and keep it in the fridge for up to a week or two. The flavor gets even better after resting overnight.