Dr. Pepper BBQ Sauce

Imagine slathering your ribs, burgers, or grilled chicken with a sauce that balances sweet, smoky, and tangy flavors in every bite. This Dr. Pepper BBQ Sauce is a game-changer, infusing classic barbecue flavors with the rich, caramel-like sweetness of Dr. Pepper. Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout or cozying up with comfort food, this sauce will have everyone licking their fingers and begging for more!

Why You’ll Love This BBQ Sauce:

Unique Flavor Profile: Dr. Pepper’s signature blend of 23 flavors adds a deep, caramelized sweetness that pairs perfectly with smoky and savory ingredients.
Versatile Use: Brush it on ribs, pulled pork, burgers, grilled veggies, or even as a dipping sauce for fries.
Simple and Quick: Made with pantry staples in just 30 minutes.

Ingredients Breakdown:

1 cup Dr. Pepper – The star ingredient, providing rich sweetness and depth.
1 cup ketchup – Acts as the base, offering a tangy, tomato-forward backbone.
1/2 cup brown sugar – Adds a warm, molasses-like sweetness and helps thicken the sauce.
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar – Provides a tangy kick to balance the sweetness.
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce – Enhances umami and brings savory complexity.
1 tablespoon soy sauce – Deepens the savory notes and adds a hint of saltiness.
1 tablespoon garlic powder – Delivers subtle garlic warmth throughout.
1 tablespoon onion powder – Adds a mild, sweet onion flavor.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika – Lends a smoky, earthy element essential for BBQ flavor.
Salt and pepper to taste – Fine-tunes the flavor to your liking.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Combine the Ingredients

In a medium-sized saucepan, add:

Dr. Pepper
Ketchup
Brown sugar
Apple cider vinegar
Worcestershire sauce
Soy sauce
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Smoked paprika

Stir everything together thoroughly to ensure the sugar dissolves and the spices distribute evenly.

2. Bring to a Boil

Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Stir frequently to prevent sticking or burning at the bottom. This step helps the ingredients meld together and activates the flavors.

3. Simmer to Perfection

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 20-30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent scorching. The sauce will begin to thicken as it reduces, reaching a rich, syrupy consistency that easily coats the back of a spoon.

4. Taste and Adjust

After simmering, give the sauce a taste. If desired, add a pinch of salt and pepper to adjust the seasoning. If you prefer extra tang, add a splash more apple cider vinegar. For deeper sweetness, sprinkle in a touch more brown sugar.

5. Cool and Store

Remove the saucepan from heat and let the sauce cool to room temperature. Transfer it to an airtight container or glass jar and store it in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.