Description
This Dr. Pepper BBQ Sauce is a sweet and tangy homemade barbecue sauce made with a unique blend of Dr. Pepper soda, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, and spices. Perfect for adding rich flavor to ribs, pulled pork, burgers, or grilled chicken, it simmers on the stovetop to develop a thick, luscious consistency with a hint of smoky and spicy notes.
Ingredients
Scale
BBQ Sauce Ingredients
- 2 cups Dr. Pepper
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/3 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the Dr. Pepper, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, honey, Worcestershire sauce, and tomato paste. Whisk the mixture thoroughly until smooth and all elements are incorporated.
- Add Spices: Stir in the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, ground black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper if you want some heat. This adds depth and a balanced smoky flavor to the sauce.
- Simmer the Sauce: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer on medium heat. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and let it cook uncovered for 30 to 40 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning and to promote even thickening.
- Adjust and Cool: Once the sauce has thickened to your preferred consistency, remove it from the heat. Let it cool slightly before using immediately or storing for later use.
Notes
- Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- Adjust sweetness by adding more brown sugar if desired.
- Increase spice level by adding additional cayenne pepper to taste.
- This versatile sauce complements ribs, pulled pork, burgers, and grilled chicken exceptionally well.
