We’ve discovered the perfect fusion of Southern tradition and regional pride with this Cheerwine BBQ sauce recipe. This unique cherry-flavored cola from North Carolina transforms ordinary barbecue sauce into something extraordinary. The sweet and tangy combination creates a glaze that’ll make your taste buds dance with every bite.
Cheerwine’s distinctive cherry flavor adds depth and complexity that you simply can’t get with regular cola-based sauces. We love how it caramelizes beautifully on grilled meats while maintaining that perfect balance of sweet and smoky. Whether you’re slathering it on ribs, pulled pork, or chicken, this sauce delivers that authentic Carolina taste.
What Is Cheerwine BBQ Sauce
Cheerwine BBQ sauce represents a distinctly Southern fusion that celebrates North Carolina’s beloved cherry cola alongside traditional barbecue heritage. We create this exceptional sauce by incorporating Cheerwine soda as the foundational ingredient, creating a flavor profile that sets it apart from conventional barbecue sauces.
The sauce achieves its signature taste through the marriage of Cheerwine’s natural cherry essence with classic barbecue components like tomato base, vinegar, and aromatic spices. We find that the cherry cola provides both sweetness and acidity, eliminating the need for excessive sugar while delivering that coveted tangy bite that defines superior barbecue sauce.
Unlike typical fruit-based barbecue sauces that rely on artificial flavoring, Cheerwine BBQ sauce draws its complexity from the soda’s authentic cherry notes. The carbonation cooks away during preparation, leaving behind concentrated flavors that penetrate deep into meats during grilling or smoking processes.
This Carolina-inspired sauce develops a beautiful mahogany color as it reduces, creating an appealing glaze that caramelizes perfectly on proteins. We appreciate how the sauce maintains its consistency whether used as a marinade, basting liquid, or finishing glaze, adapting seamlessly to various cooking methods.
The flavor profile balances sweet cherry undertones with smoky barbecue elements, creating a sauce that complements rather than overwhelms the natural taste of grilled meats. Regional pitmasters throughout the Carolinas have embraced this innovative approach, recognizing how Cheerwine’s unique characteristics enhance traditional barbecue preparations without compromising authenticity.
Ingredients
Creating this distinctive Cheerwine BBQ sauce requires two separate components that we’ll combine to achieve the perfect balance of cherry sweetness and smoky barbecue flavor. Our recipe starts with a concentrated Cheerwine reduction that we then blend with traditional BBQ sauce ingredients.
For the Cheerwine Reduction
- 12 oz Cheerwine Cherry Soda (original, not diet)
We need the original Cheerwine formula for this reduction since it provides the authentic cherry flavor and carbonation that creates the sauce’s signature taste profile. The soda simmers down to concentrate its sweet cherry essence into a syrupy consistency that serves as our flavor foundation.
For the BBQ Sauce Base
- 2 cups ketchup (organic preferred for richer flavor)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 1/3 cup chopped yellow onion
- 3 cloves garlic, chopped
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon coarse black pepper
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper (optional for heat)
Our ketchup provides the tomato base that pairs beautifully with the cherry reduction. Brown sugar adds caramelization properties that create the glossy finish we want on grilled meats. The vinegar brings necessary acidity to balance the sweetness while soy sauce contributes umami depth and saltiness. Fresh onion and garlic build the aromatic foundation that complements both the cherry and smoky elements. Worcestershire sauce adds complexity with its fermented tang. Smoked paprika delivers the essential smoky flavor while chili powder and cumin provide earthy undertones. Black pepper adds subtle heat and crushed red pepper offers additional spice for those who prefer more kick.
Equipment Needed
We need several essential pieces of equipment to create this exceptional Cheerwine BBQ sauce successfully. Our kitchen setup requires basic tools that most home cooks already possess, making this recipe accessible without specialized equipment investments.
A medium saucepan serves as our primary cooking vessel for combining ingredients and achieving proper reduction. We recommend using a heavy-bottomed pan to prevent burning and ensure even heat distribution throughout the cooking process. The pan should hold at least 2-3 quarts to accommodate ingredient expansion during the initial boiling phase.
For ingredient preparation, we need standard measuring tools including liquid measuring cups and measuring spoons. Accurate measurements ensure consistent flavor balance between the sweet cherry elements and traditional BBQ components. A sharp knife and cutting board become essential for preparing fresh aromatics like onions and garlic.
Temperature control requires careful attention during the simmering process. We suggest using a wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula for stirring, as these tools won’t scratch cookware surfaces or conduct heat. Metal utensils can damage non-stick surfaces and become uncomfortably hot during extended cooking periods.
Texture refinement may require additional equipment depending on desired consistency preferences. An immersion blender or high-speed blender helps achieve smooth sauce texture if preferred over rustic chunky consistency. We find immersion blenders particularly convenient since they eliminate transferring hot liquids between containers.
Storage preparation requires clean mason jars or airtight containers for preserving finished sauce. Glass containers work best as they don’t absorb flavors or odors from previous contents. We recommend having multiple smaller jars rather than one large container to maintain freshness once opened.
| Equipment Category | Essential Items | Optional Items |
|---|---|---|
| Cooking Vessels | Medium saucepan (2-3 quart capacity) | – |
| Measuring Tools | Liquid measuring cups, measuring spoons | Digital kitchen scale |
| Preparation Tools | Sharp knife, cutting board | – |
| Stirring Utensils | Wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula | – |
| Texture Tools | – | Immersion blender or high-speed blender |
| Storage | Mason jars or airtight containers | Funnel for easy transfer |
Instructions
These step-by-step instructions will guide you through creating authentic Cheerwine BBQ sauce from start to finish. We’ll build layers of flavor through careful reduction and seasoning adjustments.
Prep the Cheerwine Reduction
We begin by warming butter and tomato paste in our medium saucepan over low-medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until they become translucent, which takes about 10 minutes of gentle stirring.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for just 1 minute to release its aroma. Pour in the 12 oz can of Cheerwine soda along with ketchup, molasses or brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and liquid smoke.
Season the mixture with coarse black pepper, onion powder, cayenne pepper, kosher salt, and red pepper flakes according to your heat preference. Bring everything to a rolling boil over medium-high heat.
Reduce the heat to achieve a gentle simmer and cook for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally as the mixture thickens and darkens to a rich mahogany color.
Make the BBQ Sauce Base
Combine ketchup, additional Cheerwine soda, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and vinegar in your pot. Add the aromatic spices including smoked paprika, cayenne, chili powder, and optional soy sauce for depth.
Bring this base mixture to a vigorous boil over high heat before reducing to medium-low for the simmering phase. Allow the sauce to bubble gently for 45 minutes to 1 hour, stirring every 10-15 minutes to prevent sticking.
Watch as the sauce transforms from thin and watery to thick and glossy, concentrating all those cherry and smoky flavors into the perfect consistency.
Combine and Simmer
Merge the Cheerwine reduction with your BBQ sauce base, creating one unified mixture in the saucepan. Simmer the combined sauce for an additional 10-15 minutes to marry all the flavors together.
Use an immersion blender directly in the pot to puree the sauce until completely smooth, ensuring no chunks of onion or garlic remain. Alternatively, carefully transfer the hot sauce to a regular blender and process until silky.
Return the blended sauce to low heat for final cooking, allowing it to reach your desired thickness while stirring continuously.
Final Seasoning Adjustments
Remove the sauce from heat and let it cool slightly before tasting for balance. Adjust the sweetness by adding more molasses, or increase the tang with additional lemon juice or vinegar.
Fine-tune the heat level with extra hot sauce or cayenne pepper, and boost the umami depth with more Worcestershire sauce if desired. Season with salt and pepper to bring all flavors into harmony.
Transfer the finished sauce to clean mason jars or airtight containers and refrigerate to allow it to thicken further before serving. The sauce will keep for up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator and develops even richer flavors after resting overnight.
Cooking Tips and Techniques
Mastering Cheerwine BBQ sauce requires understanding the delicate balance between reduction timing and flavor development. Our experience shows that proper technique transforms a simple sauce into a complex condiment that elevates any barbecue dish.
Achieving the Perfect Consistency
We recommend simmering the sauce for extended periods to allow natural thickening through reduction. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon when properly thickened, which typically takes 25-45 minutes depending on your recipe variation.
An immersion blender or high-speed blender creates the smoothest texture for our Cheerwine BBQ sauce. We blend the sauce after the initial cooking process to eliminate any lumps from the tomato paste or onion pieces. This step ensures a professional-grade consistency that clings beautifully to meats.
Cooling the sauce quickly prevents over-thickening and maintains the ideal texture. We transfer the hot sauce to a shallow container and place it in an ice bath, stirring occasionally until it reaches room temperature. This technique stops the cooking process and preserves the perfect consistency we worked to achieve.
The sauce continues to thicken as it cools, so we aim for a slightly thinner consistency while hot. If the sauce becomes too thick during storage, we thin it with a small amount of Cheerwine soda or apple cider vinegar to restore the proper texture.
Balancing Sweet and Tangy Flavors
We adjust the vinegar content to control the tanginess in our Cheerwine BBQ sauce. Apple cider vinegar provides a milder tang, while red wine vinegar delivers a sharper acidic note. Start with the recommended amount and taste-test before adding more.
Brown sugar and molasses serve as our primary sweetness enhancers beyond the natural cherry flavor from Cheerwine. We add these ingredients gradually during the simmering process, allowing each addition to fully incorporate before adjusting further.
Spices like cayenne pepper and chili powder create heat that balances the sweet cherry notes. We use these warming spices sparingly, as they intensify during the reduction process. A quarter teaspoon of cayenne can transform the entire flavor profile.
Worcestershire sauce adds umami depth that bridges the sweet and tangy elements. We find that this ingredient creates complexity without overwhelming the cherry essence that makes Cheerwine BBQ sauce distinctive. The sauce should taste harmonious rather than dominated by any single flavor component.
Storage Instructions
Proper storage ensures our Cheerwine BBQ sauce maintains its vibrant cherry flavor and smooth consistency for future barbecue sessions. Following these storage guidelines helps preserve the sauce’s quality while extending its shelf life significantly.
Refrigerator Storage
We recommend transferring the cooled sauce to clean mason jars or airtight containers immediately after preparation. The sauce should be refrigerated within two hours of cooking to maintain food safety standards. Our Cheerwine BBQ sauce stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to two weeks when stored properly.
Natural separation may occur during storage due to the ingredients settling. Simply stir or shake the container gently before each use to restore the sauce’s original consistency. We suggest labeling containers with the preparation date to track freshness easily.
The sauce’s flavors actually improve over the first few days of refrigeration as the ingredients meld together. Room temperature sauce works best for serving, so we recommend removing it from the refrigerator 15-20 minutes before use.
Freezer Storage
Long-term storage becomes simple when we transfer the sauce to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Leave approximately one inch of headspace at the top of containers to allow for expansion during freezing. Our Cheerwine BBQ sauce maintains its quality for up to three months in the freezer.
Portion the sauce into smaller containers before freezing for convenient single-use servings. This approach eliminates the need to thaw the entire batch when only a small amount is needed. We find that ice cube trays work perfectly for creating individual sauce portions.
Thaw frozen sauce in the refrigerator overnight for best results. Gentle reheating on the stovetop with occasional stirring helps restore the original texture. The sauce may appear slightly separated after thawing, but stirring thoroughly brings back its smooth consistency.
Serving Suggestions
Our Cheerwine BBQ sauce transforms any barbecue into a Southern-inspired feast with its distinctive cherry-cola flavor. We recommend applying this versatile sauce strategically to maximize its impact on your favorite proteins and dishes.
Best Meats for Cheerwine BBQ Sauce
Pork serves as the ideal canvas for our Cheerwine BBQ sauce’s sweet and tangy profile. We achieve exceptional results when we glaze pork ribs during the final 15-20 minutes of grilling, allowing the sauce to caramelize without burning. Pork shoulder benefits tremendously from this sauce as both a marinade and finishing glaze, while pulled pork sandwiches reach new heights when we generously coat the meat before serving.
Chicken pairs beautifully with our cherry-infused sauce, particularly when we baste grilled chicken breasts or thighs during the last stages of cooking. The sauce creates an appealing mahogany coating that seals in moisture while adding layers of flavor. We recommend starting with lighter applications and building up the glaze gradually to prevent charring.
Beef responds wonderfully to our Cheerwine BBQ sauce’s bold flavor profile. Brisket develops an incredible crust when we apply the sauce as a finishing glaze, while beef ribs become competition-worthy with proper sauce application. The cherry notes complement beef’s rich flavors without overwhelming the meat’s natural taste.
| Meat Type | Best Application Method | Recommended Timing |
|---|---|---|
| Pork Ribs | Glaze during grilling | Last 15-20 minutes |
| Pork Shoulder | Marinade and finishing sauce | 4-6 hours marinade, glaze at end |
| Pulled Pork | Coating sauce | After shredding |
| Chicken | Basting glaze | Final 10-15 minutes |
| Brisket | Finishing glaze | Last 20 minutes |
| Beef Ribs | Progressive glazing | Multiple applications |
Creative Uses Beyond Grilling
Our Cheerwine BBQ sauce excels as a dipping companion for fried foods, particularly chicken tenders, onion rings, and sweet potato fries. The sauce’s balanced acidity cuts through rich, fried textures while adding complexity to simple appetizers.
We transform ordinary sandwiches into gourmet experiences by incorporating our sauce into pulled pork, brisket, or chicken sandwiches. The cherry notes provide a unique twist that distinguishes these creations from traditional barbecue offerings. Burger enthusiasts discover new flavor dimensions when we substitute our Cheerwine sauce for standard condiments.
Pizza lovers appreciate our sauce as an unconventional but delicious base for barbecue pizzas. We spread a thin layer over pizza dough before adding pulled pork, red onions, and cheese for a Carolina-inspired creation. The sauce’s consistency works perfectly for this application without making the crust soggy.
Marinade applications extend our sauce’s versatility significantly. We use it to tenderize tougher cuts of meat while infusing them with distinctive cherry and spice flavors. Overnight marinating produces exceptional results, particularly with pork shoulder and chicken thighs.
Vegetarian dishes benefit from our sauce’s complex flavor profile as well. We use it to glaze grilled portobello mushrooms, roasted vegetables, or even as a finishing touch for baked beans. The sauce adds depth and richness that elevates plant-based dishes beyond their typical flavor boundaries.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Planning ahead transforms your Cheerwine BBQ sauce from good to exceptional as the flavors develop and meld together over time. We recommend preparing this sauce at least 24 hours before your barbecue event to achieve the deepest cherry notes and most balanced flavor profile.
Prepare the Full Recipe First
Start by following our complete Cheerwine BBQ sauce recipe from start to finish. Simmer all ingredients according to the instructions until the sauce reaches your desired thickness and consistency. The reduction process concentrates the cherry flavors while allowing spices to fully integrate.
Cool Completely Before Storage
Allow the finished sauce to cool completely at room temperature for approximately 30 minutes. We suggest using an ice bath to speed this process if you need to store the sauce quickly. Place the saucepan in a larger bowl filled with ice water and stir occasionally until the sauce reaches room temperature.
Transfer to Proper Storage Containers
Pour the cooled sauce into clean mason jars or airtight containers. Leave about half an inch of headspace at the top to allow for expansion. Glass containers work best as they prevent flavor absorption and maintain the sauce’s vibrant color.
Refrigerate for Optimal Development
Store your Cheerwine BBQ sauce in the refrigerator where it will keep fresh for up to two weeks. The cold storage allows the cherry essence to penetrate deeper into the sauce base while mellowing any sharp vinegar notes. We notice the most important flavor improvement occurs within the first 48 hours of refrigeration.
Adjust Consistency Before Serving
Remove the sauce from refrigeration 15 minutes before use to bring it closer to room temperature. Natural separation may occur during storage so stir thoroughly or shake the container to restore the smooth consistency. If the sauce appears too thick after refrigeration add one tablespoon of water or additional Cheerwine and mix well.
Reheat Gently When Needed
Warm the sauce in a small saucepan over low heat while stirring frequently. Avoid boiling as high temperatures can break down the delicate cherry flavors and cause the sauce to become grainy. Taste and adjust seasonings after reheating since cold storage can mute some spice notes.
The make ahead approach allows busy pitmasters to focus on grilling techniques rather than sauce preparation during cooking time. Your guests will notice the difference that proper aging makes in creating a truly memorable Cheerwine BBQ experience.
Variations and Substitutions
We can easily customize our Cheerwine BBQ sauce to match different heat preferences and dietary needs. These variations maintain the signature cherry flavor while offering flexibility for various cooking styles and nutritional requirements.
Spicy Cheerwine BBQ Sauce
Adding heat to our Cheerwine BBQ sauce creates a perfect balance between the sweet cherry notes and fiery spice. We recommend increasing the crushed red pepper from 1 teaspoon to 2-3 teaspoons for a noticeable kick. Hot sauce provides another excellent option for heat control, allowing us to adjust the spice level to taste.
Our spicy variation incorporates additional seasonings that complement the cherry sweetness beautifully. We add 1 tablespoon of chili powder and 1 teaspoon of ground cumin to enhance the complexity while maintaining the distinctive Cheerwine character. Garlic powder and paprika further develop the flavor profile, creating layers of taste that build with each bite.
The extended simmering time of 45 minutes allows these spices to meld thoroughly with the Cheerwine reduction. We find that this longer cooking process intensifies the heat while preserving the sauce’s smooth consistency. The result delivers a sauce that provides warmth without overwhelming the natural cherry essence that makes Cheerwine BBQ sauce so special.
Sugar-Free Version
Creating a sugar-free Cheerwine BBQ sauce requires thoughtful substitutions that preserve the sauce’s characteristic sweetness and texture. We replace the brown sugar with natural sweeteners like erythritol, stevia, or monk fruit sweetener, using approximately half the amount of the original sugar quantity due to their concentrated sweetness.
Diet Cheerwine or sugar-free cherry soda serves as our base, maintaining the essential cherry flavor without added sugars. We often reduce the soda quantity slightly to account for the different sweetness profile of these alternatives. This adjustment ensures our sauce maintains the proper consistency while meeting dietary requirements.
Balancing flavors becomes crucial when working with sugar substitutes. We increase the apple cider vinegar by 1-2 tablespoons to enhance the tangy profile that complements the artificial sweeteners. Additional spices like smoked paprika and Worcestershire sauce help create depth that might be lost with sugar reduction. The final sauce delivers the same rich, glossy appearance and complex flavor profile as our original recipe while supporting low-sugar dietary goals.
Conclusion
We’ve shown you how to create an authentic Cheerwine BBQ sauce that brings Carolina pride to your backyard barbecue. This unique recipe transforms a beloved regional soda into a versatile sauce that’ll elevate any grilling session.
The beauty of this sauce lies in its adaptability – whether you’re smoking ribs for hours or grilling chicken for a quick weeknight dinner. With proper storage techniques and make-ahead preparation you’ll always have this Southern specialty ready to impress.
From spicy variations to sugar-free alternatives we’ve covered options for every palate and dietary need. Your guests will be asking for the recipe after tasting this distinctive cherry-infused creation that perfectly captures the essence of Carolina barbecue tradition.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Cheerwine BBQ sauce different from regular BBQ sauce?
Cheerwine BBQ sauce uses North Carolina’s famous cherry-flavored cola as its base ingredient, creating a unique sweet and tangy flavor profile. Unlike artificial fruit-based sauces, it relies on authentic cherry notes from the soda. The carbonation cooks off during preparation, leaving concentrated cherry flavors that complement traditional barbecue elements without overwhelming the meat’s natural taste.
How long does it take to make Cheerwine BBQ sauce?
The total preparation time is approximately 45-60 minutes. This includes creating a Cheerwine reduction by simmering 12 oz of soda until syrupy, then combining it with other ingredients and simmering the complete sauce for 25-45 minutes. Additional time is needed for cooling, and the sauce benefits from resting 24 hours before serving.
What meats work best with Cheerwine BBQ sauce?
Pork is the ideal pairing, especially ribs and pulled pork shoulder. The sauce also works excellently with chicken and beef. It can be used as a marinade, basting liquid during cooking, or finishing glaze. Beyond meats, it serves as a versatile dipping sauce for fried foods and enhances sandwiches and even vegetarian dishes.
How should I store Cheerwine BBQ sauce?
Store the cooled sauce in clean mason jars or airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For longer storage, freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to three months. Natural separation may occur, but stirring restores consistency. Always refrigerate within two hours of preparation to maintain food safety.
Can I make variations of the Cheerwine BBQ sauce?
Yes, you can create several variations. For a spicy version, increase crushed red pepper and add extra chili powder and cumin. For a sugar-free option, substitute natural sweeteners like erythritol or stevia and use Diet Cheerwine. Both variations maintain the signature cherry flavor while accommodating different dietary preferences and heat tolerance levels.
Do I need special equipment to make this sauce?
No special equipment is required. You’ll need basic kitchen tools: a medium saucepan, measuring cups and spoons, a sharp knife for chopping onions and garlic, and storage containers like mason jars. An immersion blender is optional but helpful for achieving a smooth texture. An ice bath setup helps cool the sauce quickly.
How far in advance can I make Cheerwine BBQ sauce?
It’s recommended to make the sauce at least 24 hours before serving to allow flavors to meld properly. The sauce actually improves significantly within the first 48 hours of refrigeration. This make-ahead approach is perfect for busy pitmasters, allowing them to focus on grilling techniques while ensuring optimal flavor development.
