Description

This Dr Pepper BBQ Sauce recipe combines the unique sweetness of Dr Pepper soda with classic barbecue flavors like ketchup, brown sugar, and smoked paprika to create a rich, tangy sauce perfect for grilling or slow cooking your favorite meats. It simmers gently to thicken, resulting in a luscious sauce that balances sweet, smoky, and tangy notes with a mild heat, ideal for enhancing ribs, pulled pork, or chicken.

Ingredients

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Dr Pepper BBQ Sauce Ingredients

1 x 12oz / 330ml can of Dr Pepper (not low sugar)
1 cup Ketchup
1/4 cup Dark Brown Sugar
1/4 cup Apple Cider Vinegar
2 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce
2 tbsp Tomato Paste (Tomato Puree in UK)
2 tsp Smoked Paprika
1 tsp Mustard Powder
1/2 tsp Onion Powder
1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
1/2 tsp Salt
1/2 tsp Black Pepper
1/2 tsp Hot Sauce (optional, or to taste)

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Instructions

Combine Ingredients: Add all of your ingredients into a pot or deep pan and whisk thoroughly to combine all components evenly, ensuring the brown sugar dissolves well and the spices are evenly distributed.
Simmer the Sauce: Place the pot over low to medium-low heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and burning. Let it simmer gently for approximately 20 minutes until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. Avoid turning the heat too high to prevent the sugar from burning.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce once thickened and adjust seasoning if necessary by adding more salt, hot sauce, or vinegar according to your preference. Stir well and simmer for a few more minutes if you add any ingredients.

Notes

Use full sugar Dr Pepper, not the diet or low sugar versions, for the best flavor and caramelization.
Simmering gently is key to avoid burning the sugars and to develop a thick sauce.
Adjust spiciness by varying the amount of hot sauce or smoked paprika.
This sauce pairs excellently with grilled meats, slow-cooked ribs, or pulled pork.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.