Cheerwine Barbecue Sauce

There’s something magical about making your own sauces, and with Cheerwine Barbecue Sauce, that magic is taken to a whole new level. I still remember the first time I stumbled upon this recipe at a summer barbecue—my friends were raving about the rich, sweet, and tangy flavors that danced on their taste buds. As I took a dip of grilled chicken into that glorious sauce, I knew I had found a treasure worth sharing. The combination of Cheerwine and other delicious ingredients creates a unique profile that transforms any meal into a celebration of flavor.

Whenever the grill comes out, I find myself returning to this recipe. It’s the perfect accompaniment to not just meat but also roasted veggies and even grilled tofu for those days when I’m feeling plant-based. The beauty of Cheerwine Barbecue Sauce lies in its versatility: it can spice up your lunch, elevate dinner, or even make its way into picnic baskets. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up in your kitchen—no need for fancy equipment or endless prep work.

In my home, Cheerwine Barbecue Sauce has become a staple. It’s ideal for family gatherings, summer cookouts, or even weekday dinners when I want to add a little extra flair to our meals. With each spoonful, I’m reminded of those sunny afternoons spent with loved ones, laughter, and the sweet aroma of food on the grill. So why not bring a little of that joy into your home? Grab your ingredients, and let’s create something delicious together!

Ingredient List for Cheerwine Barbecue Sauce

Creating the perfect Cheerwine Barbecue Sauce starts with the right ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in developing the rich, sweet, and tangy flavor profile that makes this sauce irresistible. Let’s explore the key players in this delicious ensemble.

• 1 cup Cheerwine: This cherry-flavored soda is the heart of the sauce, contributing sweetness and a unique flavor that’s hard to replicate.
• ¼ cup soy sauce: Provides a savory umami depth that balances the sweetness of the Cheerwine, making the sauce complex and rich.
• ¼ cup honey: Adds natural sweetness and a smooth texture, enhancing the overall richness of the sauce.
• ½ cup dark Karo syrup: This corn syrup adds a deep sweetness and thick consistency, crucial for that perfect glaze.
• 3 tablespoons butter: Enriches the sauce and adds a silky mouthfeel, making it even more delightful on grilled items.
• 2 cups brown sugar: Packs in sweetness that caramelizes beautifully when cooked, giving the sauce that inviting sticky texture.
• 3 tablespoons minced garlic: Brings aromatic depth and a pleasant kick to the sauce, balancing the sweetness.
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice: Provides acidity, which brightens the flavors and cuts through the richness.
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Adds a hint of heat that can be adjusted depending on your spice preference.
• 2 tablespoons yellow mustard: Introduces a tartness that complements the sweet elements, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for seasoning, it enhances the flavors of all the ingredients.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a final touch of spiciness that rounds out the sauce nicely.

How to Cook Cheerwine Barbecue Sauce

Making Cheerwine Barbecue Sauce is a straightforward process that anyone can master. Follow these easy steps, and soon you’ll have a batch of delicious sauce to elevate your meals.

1. Start by gathering all the ingredients for Cheerwine Barbecue Sauce. It’s key to have everything prepped and ready so that the cooking process flows smoothly. In a medium saucepan, combine the Cheerwine, soy sauce, honey, Karo syrup, butter, and brown sugar. Stir these together over medium heat, ensuring everything is well mixed.
2. As the mixture heats, keep an eye on it and stir frequently. This step is crucial because you want all the sugars to dissolve and blend harmoniously. The aroma will start to fill your kitchen, hinting at the delightful flavor that’s coming together.
3. After about 10 minutes of stirring, it’s time to introduce the remaining ingredients. Add the minced garlic, lemon juice, red pepper flakes, yellow mustard, salt, and black pepper. Each of these components will add an extra layer of flavor that makes this sauce unique.
4. Continue to cook the sauce for another 10 to 15 minutes. You’ll notice it starting to thicken; you’re looking for a consistency that coats the back of a spoon. This is a good indication that your sauce is ready.
5. Once thickened, remove the saucepan from heat. It’s essential to let it cool slightly before using. This cooling process allows the flavors to meld and settle, providing a richer taste.
6. Reserve about a third of the sauce in a bowl so you can use it at the table. It’s a great addition to grilled meats or roasted veggies, allowing guests to use as much or as little as they desire.
7. Now, take the rest of the sauce and use it to baste your grilled items. This is where the magic happens! Brush the sauce onto your meats or veggies as they cook, letting it caramelize and create a beautiful glaze.
8. For extra flavor, consider charring some of the remaining sauce on the grill—it adds an incredible depth and smoky flavor that enhances the dish even more.
9. Finally, enjoy your delicious Cheerwine Barbecue Sauce however you like! Whether it’s on grilled chicken, ribs, or even veggies, you’ll find it adds a burst of flavor that’s hard to resist.

Recipe Notes about Cheerwine Barbecue Sauce

After trying out Cheerwine Barbecue Sauce, you might have some questions about how to make the most of it. Here are some helpful tips to get you started.

• Storage: Store any leftover sauce in a sealed container in the refrigerator. It can last for up to a week, making it easy to add flavor to future meals.
• Freezing: You can freeze the sauce in freezer-safe containers for up to three months. Just thaw and reheat when you’re ready to use it again.
• Pairing: This sauce goes beautifully with grilled chicken, ribs, or roasted vegetables. Serve it at cookouts, parties, or whenever you want a burst of flavor.
• Double the Batch: If you love it as much as I do, consider doubling the recipe. That way, you’ll have plenty to share or save for later!
• Adjusting Spice Levels: Feel free to adjust the heat by adding more or less red pepper flakes according to your preference. You can also experiment with different types of mustard for varied flavors.

Serving Options for Cheerwine Barbecue Sauce

When it comes to serving Cheerwine Barbecue Sauce, the options are virtually endless!

• Grilled Meats: Use it as a glaze for grilled chicken, pork, or beef. It caramelizes beautifully, offering a sweet and tangy crust that enhances the flavor.
• Roasted Vegetables: Brush some sauce over your favorite veggies before roasting. The sweet and spicy notes will elevate the dish and make even the pickiest eaters enjoy their greens.
• Sandwiches: Slather Cheerwine Barbecue Sauce on burgers, sandwiches, or sliders for a tasty twist that adds moisture and flavor.
• Dipping Sauce: Serve it as a dipping sauce alongside grilled skewers, chicken wings, or even nachos for a fun appetizer at gatherings.
• Picnics and Barbecues: This sauce is a must-have for summer picnics and barbecues. Pack it up in a jar and watch it disappear as guests pile it on their plates.
• Potluck Favorites: Bring this sauce to potlucks or gatherings. It’s always a hit and can be paired with a variety of dishes, from baked beans to coleslaw.

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, Cheerwine Barbecue Sauce stands out for its unique blend of flavors that can elevate any meal. Whether you’re grilling for friends or looking for a quick weeknight treat, this sauce brings joy and deliciousness to the table. I encourage you to try making it yourself; once you do, you’ll find it hard to go back to store-bought versions!

Cheerwine Barbecue Sauce

The ultimate barbecue sauce that combines the sweetness of Cheerwine with a savory blend of ingredients to create a flavor explosion! Perfect for summer grilling, this easy recipe will have you craving more. Elevate your meals tonight with this delicious sauce!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Side Dishes

Cuisine: American

Calories: 180

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 cup Cheerwine
• ¼ cup Soy Sauce
• ¼ cup Honey
• ½ cup Dark Karo Syrup
• 3 tablespoons Butter
• 2 cups Brown Sugar
• 3 tablespoons Minced Garlic
• 3 tablespoons Lemon Juice
• 1 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes
• 2 tablespoons Yellow Mustard
• ½ teaspoon Kosher Salt
• ½ teaspoon Black Pepper

Equipment

• Wooden Spoon
• Frying Pan

Method

 

1. Start by gathering all the ingredients for Cheerwine Barbecue Sauce. It’s key to have everything prepped and ready so that the cooking process flows smoothly. In a medium saucepan, combine the Cheerwine, soy sauce, honey, Karo syrup, butter, and brown sugar. Stir these together over medium heat, ensuring everything is well mixed.
2. As the mixture heats, keep an eye on it and stir frequently. This step is crucial because you want all the sugars to dissolve and blend harmoniously. The aroma will start to fill your kitchen, hinting at the delightful flavor that’s coming together.
3. After about 10 minutes of stirring, it’s time to introduce the remaining ingredients. Add the minced garlic, lemon juice, red pepper flakes, yellow mustard, salt, and black pepper. Each of these components will add an extra layer of flavor that makes this sauce unique.
4. Continue to cook the sauce for another 10 to 15 minutes. You’ll notice it starting to thicken; you’re looking for a consistency that coats the back of a spoon. This is a good indication that your sauce is ready.
5. Once thickened, remove the saucepan from heat. It’s essential to let it cool slightly before using. This cooling process allows the flavors to meld and settle, providing a richer taste.
6. Reserve about a third of the sauce in a bowl so you can use it at the table. It’s a great addition to grilled meats or roasted veggies, allowing guests to use as much or as little as they desire.
7. Now, take the rest of the sauce and use it to baste your grilled items. This is where the magic happens! Brush the sauce onto your meats or veggies as they cook, letting it caramelize and create a beautiful glaze.
8. For extra flavor, consider charring some of the remaining sauce on the grill—it adds an incredible depth and smoky flavor that enhances the dish even more.
9. Finally, enjoy your delicious Cheerwine Barbecue Sauce however you like! Whether it’s on grilled chicken, ribs, or even veggies, you’ll find it adds a burst of flavor that’s hard to resist.

Notes

Store any leftover sauce in a sealed container in the refrigerator. It can last for up to a week, making it easy to add flavor to future meals.

You can freeze the sauce in freezer-safe containers for up to three months. Just thaw and reheat when you're ready to use it again.

This sauce goes beautifully with grilled chicken, ribs, or roasted vegetables. Serve it at cookouts, parties, or whenever you want a burst of flavor.

If you love it as much as I do, consider doubling the recipe. That way, you'll have plenty to share or save for later!

Feel free to adjust the heat by adding more or less red pepper flakes according to your preference. You can also experiment with different types of mustard for varied flavors.

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Meet Sadie Mitchell

The Mood Catcher I’m our lead photographer, but my camera is just another tool in the kitchen, right next to my knife and whisk! I am obsessed with capturing the feeling of a meal the steam rising off a bowl or the golden light on a loaf of bread. I cook and style every shoot with the team, ensuring that the photo tells you exactly how cozy and delicious the food will taste.