Cherry BBQ Sauce

There’s something magical about the first backyard barbecue of summer. I still remember my grandmother’s smoky ribs slathered in homemade sauces that simmered all afternoon a tradition that inspired my love for experimenting with bold, fruity twists on classic condiments. This Cherry BBQ Sauce is one of my favorite creations: juicy, sweet cherries blended into a rich, tangy base that transforms everything from grilled chicken to roasted vegetables.

Whether you’re prepping for a weekend cookout or just want to elevate a Tuesday night dinner, this cherry-infused BBQ sauce is a game-changer.

Why You’ll Love This Cherry BBQ Sauce

• Seasonal and vibrant: Uses fresh cherries at their summer peak.
• Balanced flavor: Sweet, smoky, tangy, and just a touch of heat.
• Versatile: Delicious on ribs, burgers, chicken, tofu, or even as a dip.
• Make-ahead friendly: Stores well and tastes even better the next day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you need to whip up a batch of this luscious Cherry BBQ Sauce:

Base Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
• 1/2 cup ketchup or tomato paste
• 1/3 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar (or honey/maple syrup)
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp ground cumin
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Substitutions & Variations

• Fresh vs Frozen Cherries: Both work beautifully. If using frozen, thaw before blending.
• Sweeteners: Try maple syrup for a more earthy note, or coconut sugar for a subtle caramel flavor.
• Add depth: A splash of bourbon adds smokiness and richness.

Equipment Needed

• Saucepan
• Blender or immersion blender
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Fine mesh strainer (optional, for a smoother sauce)
• Storage jars or airtight container

Directions for Cherry BBQ Sauce

Step 1: Cook the cherries:

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add cherries and a splash of water. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened.

Step 2: Blend until smooth:

Use a blender or immersion blender to purée the cherries. Return to the saucepan.

Step 3: Add remaining ingredients:

Stir in ketchup, vinegar, sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and all spices. Mix well.

Step 4: Simmer gently:

Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened.

Step 5: Adjust seasoning:

Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or sweetness as needed.

Step 6: Optional – strain for smoothness:

If you prefer a silky texture, strain through a fine mesh sieve.

Step 7: Cool and store:

Let the sauce cool before transferring to jars. Refrigerate for up to 2 weeks or freeze for longer storage.

Ways to Use Cherry BBQ Sauce

This sauce is more than just a burger topper! Try it:

• Brushed on ribs or beef chops before grilling
• As a glaze for grilled tofu or tempeh
• Swirled into baked beans or BBQ chicken pizza
• As a dipping sauce for sweet potato fries
• Mixed into pulled beef sandwiches

Storage Tips & Flavor Variations

Storage:

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
• Freeze in ice cube trays or small containers for up to 3 months.

Flavor Variations:

• Spicy Cherry BBQ Sauce: Add chipotle peppers in adobo or increase cayenne.
• Smokier version: Use liquid smoke or smoked salt.
• Herbaceous twist: Add fresh thyme or rosemary during the simmering process.

FAQs About Cherry BBQ Sauce

Final Thoughts on Cherry BBQ Sauce

Cherry BBQ Sauce is the ultimate secret weapon for elevating your summer grilling game. Its rich, tangy-sweet profile brings out the best in everything from flame-grilled ribs to smoky tofu skewers. With cherries in season during the warmer months, there’s no better time to celebrate their bold flavor in a sauce that balances natural fruitiness with deep, savory barbecue notes. Whether you’re planning a backyard cookout or simply spicing up your weeknight dinner, this cherry BBQ sauce recipe delivers a vibrant punch in every bite.

Beyond its standout flavor, Cherry BBQ Sauce is incredibly versatile and easy to make ahead. You can customize it to suit your heat preference, adjust sweetness levels, or even infuse it with bourbon or chipotle for added depth. Use this cherry BBQ sauce as a marinade, a finishing glaze, or a dipping sauce, whatever suits your style. Once you try it, you’ll wonder how your summer grill sessions ever went without it.

For more delicious recipes, cooking tips, and culinary inspiration, check out Chaynez Recipes, where you’ll find all of our latest recipes and updates in one place. From savory soups to delectable desserts, there’s something for every palate.

Cherry BBQ Sauce

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• Author: Chaynez
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 8–10 servings 1x

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Description

A tangy, sweet, and smoky Cherry BBQ Sauce that’s perfect for summer grilling. Ideal for ribs, chicken, tofu, and more.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted

• 1/2 cup ketchup or tomato paste

• 1/3 cup apple cider vinegar

• 1/4 cup brown sugar (or honey/maple syrup)

• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

• 1/2 tsp onion powder

• 1/4 tsp ground cumin

• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

• In a saucepan, cook cherries with a splash of water over medium heat for 5–7 minutes until soft.

• Blend the cherries into a purée, then return to saucepan.

• Stir in all remaining ingredients and mix well.

• Simmer on low for 20 minutes until thickened.

• Adjust seasoning as needed.

• Optionally strain the sauce for smooth texture.

• Cool and store in airtight containers.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Sauce
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Calories: 50 calories
• Sugar: 9g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Fat: 0.5g
• Carbohydrates: 12g

Keywords: Cherry BBQ Sauce, homemade BBQ sauce, summer grilling, cherry barbecue