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Create a masterpiece of flavor with my homemade Dr Pepper BBQ Sauce recipe. This homemade delight is the ideal mix of sweet, smoky, tangy and utterly irresistible delicious barbecue flavors — perfect for dipping nuggets and fries, slathering grilled chicken and ribs, plus more!

Table of Contents

About this dr pepper barbecue sauce

Crafted with a symphony of flavors, this Dr Pepper barbecue sauce recipe invites you on a journey of Pit-master artistry.

Imagine the delicious melody of garlic and onions sautéed in a rich blend of unsalted butter and olive oil, before being enriched by the smoky allure of ancho chile powder and the gentle kick of cayenne pepper. Infused with the unique sweetness of Dr Pepper soda, balanced by the tang of apple cider vinegar, enhanced with umami notes of Worcestershire sauce, and finished with a harmonious blend of ketchup and dark brown sugar, this delicious homemade barbecue sauce boasts a depth of rich, sweet, and tangy flavors.

This bar-b-q sauce made with soda will complement everything from tender baby back ribs and succulent brisket to finger-lickin’ grilled chicken, leaving a lingering satisfaction that only homemade perfection can deliver.

What are you waiting for? Indulge in the best doctor pepper sauce, where each and every bite promises an unforgettable bbq delight!

Why you’ll love this recipe

  • Superior Flavor: While store-bought sauces are super convenient, homemade dr pepper sauces offer a fresher, more vibrant flavor compared to those mass-produced, preservative-laden alternatives. When making bbq sauce from scratch you can use the freshest, highest-quality ingredients, such as premium tomato paste and organic ketchup. This freshness and quality contributes to a more satisfying and delicious culinary experience.
  • Quick and Easy: This flavorful barbecue sauce requires just 10 minutes or active, hands-on preparation. I can’t even drive to the grocery store that fast.
  • Customization to Personal Taste: Making barbecue sauce at home allows you to customize it in endless ways. Experiment with different spices, herbs, and additional ingredients to create a signature barbecue sauce that is uniquely yours. Whether you prefer it smokier, spicier, or with a hint of citrus, you have the freedom to tailor the sauce exactly to your liking.
  • Versatile AF: The secret to making everything on the grill taste fabulous? Add barbecue sauce made with Dr pepper. Honestly, it’s just as versatile as ranch dressing or honey mustard dressing.

Ingredients for dr pepper bbq sauce

  • Unsalted Butter and Olive Oil: I like to use a combination of butter and olive oil for richness when sautéing. But feel free to just use oil if that’s all you have on hand.
  • Yellow Onion: You’ll need one medium peeled and large diced onion for a base of savory flavor. Select an onion thats firm with no soft spots.
  • Garlic: A couple fresh chopped garlic cloves add a depth of aromatic flavor to the bbq sauce.
  • Tomato Paste: Rich tomato paste lends concentrated tomato flavor. Opt for tomato paste in a tube instead of a can for easy storage.
  • Ground Ancho Chile Powder: For a mildly spicy flavor with a sweet, smoky taste.
  • Kosher Saltand Ground Black Pepper: Enhances the overall seasoning without overpowering the other flavors.
  • Cayenne Pepper: For heat and subtle spiciness. Be sure to adjust the amount based on your personal preference.
  • Dr Pepper Soda: You just need one 12-ounce can for soda sweetness and a deliciously unique bbq flavor profile.
  • Ketchup: A little ketchup adds tanginess and enhances the dr pepper barbeque sauce texture. Use a good quality brand with natural ingredients for better flavor.
  • Dark Brown Sugar: For sweetness and with a hint of molasses.
  • Apple Cider Vinegar: ACV balances sweetness with acidity and adds a fruity tang.
  • Worcestershire Sauce: This brown sauce adds umami depth and complexity to the sauce.
  • Liquid Smoke: Hickory liquid smoke lends a rich, smoky flavor which mimics the traditional taste of an outdoor barbecue grill.

Recipe variations

While I love this recipe for barbecue sauce with dr pepper soda just the way it is, there are tons of ways you can customize it. Experiment with ingredient proportions and adding ingredients to find your perfect flavor profile. Or try one of these variations instead:

  • Spicy Dr Pepper Barbeque Sauce: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper in the recipe. Or, add a chopped chipotle pepper in adobo sauce or your favorite hot sauce for extra heat.
  • Smoky Dr Pepper Barbecue Sauce: Enhance the smokiness by adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika and a splash of liquid smoke for a more pronounced smoky flavor.
  • Herb Dr Pepper BBQ Sauce: Add fresh or dried herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano to impart herbal notes to the barbecue sauce. If using fresh herbs, finely chop them and add them towards the end of cooking.
  • Citrusy Dr Pepper Barbeque Sauce: Incorporate the fresh zest from citrus fruits such as orange or lime for an extra burst of bright flavor. Or use the freshly squeezed citrus juice to add a hint of brightness.
  • Honey Dr Pepper Barbecue Sauce: Substitute part of the brown sugar with honey for a sticky floral sweetness.
  • Coffee-infused Dr Pepper BBQ Sauce: Replace a small amount of the Dr Pepper soda with brewed coffee to add depth and richness to the sauce. The coffee flavor pairs well with the sweetness and spices in the sauce.
  • Mustardy BBQ Sauce with Dr Pepper: Stir in a tablespoon or two of Dijon mustard or whole grain mustard to give this dr pepper barbeque sauce recipe a tangy and slightly pungent flavor.

How to make bbq sauce with dr pepper

  1. Sauté the aromatics and spices: Heat the butter and oil in a heavy saucepan over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the onions and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are just translucent, about 6-8 minutes. Add the garlic, chile powder, measured salt and pepper, cayenne pepper, and smoked paprika. Cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  2. Add the tomato paste: Add the tomato paste to the pan and cook, stirring frequently, for 2-3 minutes, or until the tomato paste is caramelized.
  3. Add remaining ingredients: Add the can of dr. pepper, ketchup, sugar, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and liquid smoke to the pan and whisk well to combine. Increase the heat to medium high and bring the sauce a simmer. Then immediately reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer.
  4. Simmer Barbecue Sauce: Let the barbecue sauce cook, stirring occasionally, for 28 to 30 minutes, or until the sauce is thickened.
  5. Blend BBQ Sauce: Remove from heat and let sauce cool for 8-10 minutes before using an immersion blender or high-speed stand blender to puree the sauce. Then, taste the Dr Pepper BBQ sauce and adjust the flavors to suit your own taste buds.
  6. Use or Store: Use the dr pepper barbecue sauce as a marinade, glaze, or serving sauce and enjoy! Alternatively, transfer the sauce to an airtight jar or storage container and store in the fridge for 2 weeks.

Expert tips for the most success!

  • Use Quality Ingredients. For the best homemade bbq sauce, opt for a good brand of natural ketchup, tomato paste, vinegar, brown sugar, and worcestershire since these ingredients form the base of the sauce.
  • Layer the Flavors. While throwing all the ingredients into the pan and simmering away will create a decent barbecue sauce, adding and cooking the ingredients in layers creates a richness and depth of flavor. 
  • Simmer for Flavor and Body. Bring the dr pepper sauce to a simmer and be sure to allow the barbecue sauce to simmer gently for at least 25 minutes to allow the flavors to develop and meld together and the sauce to thicken.
  • Adjust Seasonings to Taste. Be sure to taste the barbeque sauce and adjust the flavors to suit your personal taste buds before serving. Add more kosher salt and black pepper for overall flavor, acv for tang, Worcestershire for umami, and specific seasonings for specific flavors. 
  • Experiment with Flavors. No one knows your palate like you do. I encourage you to experiment in the kitchen to create a dr pepper barbeque sauce you are crazy about. If you love fiery heat, add a little hot sauce. If you prefer a sweet and sassy sauce, add more brown sugar, maple syrup, or honey.

FAQs: frequently asked questions

You’ve got questions? I’ve got answers! If you have a question you don’t see listed below, please drop them in the comments section. I’m happy to help when I can! 

Can I use diet Dr Pepper or other soda substitutes in the BBQ sauce recipe?

Absolutely, you can substitute regular Dr Pepper with diet Dr Pepper or other sodas such as Coke or Pepsi if you prefer. However, keep in mind that the flavor and level of sweetness varies among sodas, so you may need to reduce the sugar and adjust other ingredients, such as the apple cider vinegar, to balance the taste.

Does the Dr Pepper soda make barbecue sauce overly sweet?

I personally do not find this recipe for dr pepper barbeque sauce to be sickly or overly sweet. However, no two tastebuds are created equal. While Dr Pepper soda does add a distinct sweetness to the BBQ sauce, it’s balanced with ingredients like vinegar and spices which provide a counterpoint to the soda’s sweetness.

However, you can easily adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of brown sugar. I recommend tasting the sauce as you’re cooking and adjust accordingly.

How can I adjust the thickness of the BBQ sauce if it turns out too thin?

If your homemade BBQ sauce is too thin you can reduce and thicken it bt simply simmering it (uncovered) for a longer period of time than the recipe calls for. Alternatively, you can mix a small amount of cornstarch with water and stir it into the simmering sauce, then continue to gently simmer until the bbq sauce is thickened to your liking.

Can I make the BBQ sauce ahead of time and store it?

Yes, I actually recommend making it in advance so the flavors have a chance to develop and marry together. You can make Dr Pepper BBQ up to a week in advance – just store it in an airtight container or jar in the refrigerator.

What meats are best paired with Dr Pepper BBQ sauce?

Dr Pepper BBQ sauce pairs well with a variety of meats including ribs, pulled pork, brisket, chicken, and even grilled vegetables. The sweet and tangy flavor best complements the smoky notes from grilling or smoking.

Can I adjust the spiciness of the BBQ sauce?

Absolutely. You can easily adjust the spiciness by varying the amount of ancho chili powder and cayenne pepper. For a spicier sauce, consider adding hot sauce to taste. And, for a milder dr pepper barbeque sauce, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or omit it altogether.

What can I substitute for Worcestershire sauce if I don’t have any?

If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce on hand, you can substitute it with an equal amount of soy sauce or tamari sauce for a similar umami flavor. Alternatively, you can mix equal parts of soy sauce and vinegar with a pinch of sugar and a dash of hot sauce.

Can I make this BBQ sauce gluten-free?

Absolutely. To make gluten-free barbecue sauce with dr pepper, simply ensure that all ingredients – including the Worcestershire sauce – are certified gluten-free. Alternatively, you can omit Worcestershire sauce needed.

How long should I simmer BBQ sauce to develop the flavors?

You want to let the dr pepper barbeque sauce gently simmer for at least 25 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken to the desired consistency.

Overhead photo of cooked baby back ribs smothered with homemade barbecue sauce made with dr pepper soda.

serving dr pepper barbeque sauce

Common Serving Suggestions

  • Ribs: Use Dr Pepper BBQ sauce a glaze sauce during the last portion of grilling or baking pork ribs for a delicious sticky-sweet finish.
  • Pulled Pork Sandwiches: Toss pulled pork in BBQ sauce and serve on toasted buns with spicy coleslaw.
  • Grilled Chicken: Similar to ribs, you can glaze grilled chicken breasts or thighs generously with barbecue sauce before serving.
  • Burgers and Sandwiches: Swap out the mayo and mustard and use dr pepper sauce as a topping for ground beef burgers, sandwiches, and wraps.
  • Meatballs: Use this barbecue sauce to make the best dr pepper meatballs in all the land. They’re delicious as an appetizer or main dish.
  • Chicken Wings: Ditch the buffalo hot sauce and whip up crispy barbecue wings instead.
  • Fried Favorites: Use dr pepper sauce it to dunk your favorite recipes for chicken strips, french fries, McDonald’s nuggets, and more.

Unique serving suggestions

  • Dr Pepper BBQ Pizza: If you love barbecue pizza, this one’s for you. Use Dr Pepper barbecue sauce as a base for pizza and top with grilled chicken, ham, red onions, mozzarella cheese, and diced pineapples.
  • Barbeque Tacos: Fill soft flour tortillas with pulled pork or grilled chicken tossed in Dr Pepper BBQ sauce. Top with shredded cabbage, sliced avocado, and a drizzle of sour cream.
  • Dr Pepper BBQ Meatloaf: Give your favorite meatloaf recipe a tasty twist by mixing Dr Pepper BBQ sauce into the meatloaf mixture before baking.
  • BBQ Sliders: Make fun mini sliders by tossing slow cooked brisket or shredded chicken in Dr Pepper BBQ sauce.

storing leftover bar bq sauce

Storage instructions

  • Cool Sauce: Allow the barbecue sauce with dr pepper to cool completely to room temperature before storing. To cool the sauce quickly, place the container of bbq sauce in an ice bath and stir occasionally until it cools to room temperature.
  • Store and Refrigerate: Transfer the sauce to an airtight container or jar and store it in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Freezer instructions

  • Cool Completely: Before freezing, make sure the Dr Pepper BBQ sauce is completely cooled to room temperature.
  • Proper Storage and Freezing: Transfer the sauce to freezer-safe containers or resealable freezer bags, leaving some room at the top for expansion during freezing. Store the barbecue sauce in the freezer for up to 3 months.
  • Thawing and Reheating: To use, thaw the dr pepper sauce overnight in the refrigerator. Transfer the dr pepper barbeque sauce to a saucepan and reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Please note, you may need to adjust the consistency with a splash of water or additional soda if it’s too thick.

Tangy, sweet, smoky, and ideally sassy, this dr pepper barbeque sauce will have you on your way to perfect deliciousness. Whether you’re dipping fries, slathering chicken and ribs, or marinating meats, get ready to savor this flavorful homemade sauce. Until next time, happy saucing! Cheers!

Cheyanne

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More barbecue sauce recipes!

Overhead photo of Dr. pepper BBQ sauce in a medium saucepan with a two liter of Dr pepper soda next to the sauce.

Dr Pepper Barbecue Sauce

Author: Cheyanne Holzworth
Total Time: 40 minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 7 servings
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Create a masterpiece of flavor with my Dr Pepper BBQ sauce recipe. This homemade delight is the ideal mix of sweet, smoky, tangy and utterly irresistible delicious flavors—perfect for your next barbecue!

Equipment

  • 1 Heavy Medium Saucepan (for cooking the barbecue sauce)
  • 1 Whisk (for cooking the stirring the bbq sauce)
  • 1 Immersion Blender or Stand Blender (for blending the barbeque sauce)

Ingredients 

Instructions

  • Sauté the Aromatics and Spices: Heat the butter and oil in a heavy saucepan over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the onions and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are just translucent, about 6-8 minutes.
    Add the garlic, chile powder, measured salt and pepper, cayenne pepper, and smoked paprika. Cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  • Add the Tomato Paste: Add the tomato paste to the pan and cook, stirring frequently, for 2-3 minutes, or until the tomato paste is caramelized.
  • Add Remaining BBQ Sauce Ingredients: Add the can of dr. pepper, ketchup, sugar, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and liquid smoke to the pan and whisk well to combine. Increase the heat to medium high and bring the sauce a simmer. Then immediately reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer.
  • Simmer Barbecue Sauce: Let the barbecue sauce cook, stirring occasionally, for 28 to 30 minutes, or until the sauce is thickened.
  • Blend BBQ Sauce: Remove from heat and let sauce cool for 8-10 minutes before using an immersion blender or high-speed stand blender to puree the sauce. Then, taste the Dr Pepper BBQ sauce and adjust the flavors to suit your own taste buds.
  • Use or Store Dr Pepper BBQ Sauce: Use the dr pepper barbecue sauce as a marinade, glaze, or serving sauce and enjoy! Alternatively, transfer the sauce to an airtight jar or storage container and store in the fridge for 2 weeks.
    Overhead photo of Dr. pepper BBQ sauce in a medium saucepan with a two liter of Dr pepper soda next to the sauce.

Notes

  • Need to Scale the Recipe? Hover your mouse over the number of servings in the recipe card. You’ll see a sliding scale pop up, you can use that to scale the recipe up or down as needed.
  • Got questions? I’ve got answers! If you ever run into an issue, have a question, or need any clarification – please feel free to drop them in the comments section. I’m happy to help when I can!
Nutritional information is provided as a courtesy and the nutrition facts are an estimate based upon 7 (1/2 cup) servings. Exact information will depend upon the brands of ingredients and precise measurements used.

Nutrition

Calories: 170kcal    Carbohydrates: 30g    Protein: 1g    Fat: 6g    Saturated Fat: 2g    Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g    Monounsaturated Fat: 3g    Trans Fat: 0.1g    Cholesterol: 4mg    Sodium: 1123mg    Potassium: 326mg    Fiber: 1g    Sugar: 25g    Vitamin A: 342IU    Vitamin C: 6mg    Calcium: 42mg    Iron: 1mg
Course: Condiment, Sauce
Cuisine: American

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