The sweetness of summer has a way of sticking around, especially when you whip up a Fresh cherry BBQ sauce recipe that’s as vibrant as a sunset and packed with flavors that dance on your taste buds. Imagine juicy, sun-ripened cherries mingling with smoky undertones and just the right amount of tang to elevate any grilled masterpiece. sweet rhubarb cobbler homemade rhubarb jam Rhubarb chutney pairing This isn’t just BBQ sauce; it’s a summertime celebration in a jar, ready to turn your cookouts into culinary blockbusters.
I remember the first time I tasted this delightful concoction at a family barbecue. My Uncle Bob, who proudly claims he’s the “Grill Master” (though we know Aunt Sue does all the actual cooking), slathered it on everything from ribs to corn on the cob. It was love at first bite! Perfect for those lazy summer afternoons or spontaneous backyard gatherings, this Fresh cherry BBQ sauce recipe is guaranteed to bring smiles and satisfied stomachs. For more inspiration, check out this baked apples recipe recipe.
Why You'll Love This Fresh cherry BBQ sauce recipe
- This amazing Fresh cherry BBQ sauce recipe offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Ingredients for Fresh cherry BBQ sauce recipe
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Fresh cherry BBQ sauce recipe:
- Fresh Cherries: Choose ripe, sweet cherries for the best flavor; they should be deep red and firm.
- Ketchup: A classic base that provides the perfect balance of sweetness and acidity.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds a tangy kick that complements the sweetness of the cherries nicely.
- Brown Sugar: Enhances the richness of the sauce; feel free to adjust based on your desired sweetness.
- Garlic Powder: For that subtle punch that brings all the flavors together.
- Smoked Paprika: Infuses that irresistible smoky flavor that makes BBQ so special.
For the Sauce:
- Black Pepper: A pinch adds depth and balances sweetness perfectly.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Fresh cherry BBQ sauce recipe
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Fresh cherry BBQ sauce recipe:
Step 1: Prepare Your Cherries
Start by washing and pitting about two cups of fresh cherries. A good cherry pitter will save you time and keep your fingers from turning into a sticky mess.
Step 2: Blend It Up
In a blender or food processor, combine your pitted cherries with one cup of ketchup, half a cup of apple cider vinegar, and one-third cup of brown sugar. Blend until smooth; this should resemble a scene from an explosion in a fruit factory—vibrant red chaos!
Step 3: Spice It Up
Pour your cherry mixture into a saucepan over medium heat. Add two teaspoons of garlic powder, one teaspoon of smoked paprika, and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Stir well until combined.
Step 4: Simmer Away
Bring your mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for about twenty minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens slightly. The aroma will fill your kitchen with such mouthwatering goodness that even your pet may start eyeing you suspiciously.
Step 5: Cool Down
Once thickened, remove the saucepan from heat and let it cool down for about ten minutes. Don’t rush this part; you want those flavors to settle like an old friend at your dinner table.
Step 6: Store or Serve
Transfer your delicious Fresh cherry BBQ sauce into an airtight container or jar. It can be refrigerated for up to two weeks—if it lasts that long! Use it generously on grilled meats or as a dipping sauce for veggies.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch! Enjoy every drop of this delightful concoction while making unforgettable memories around the grill!
You Must Know About Fresh cherry BBQ sauce recipe
- This amazing Fresh cherry BBQ sauce recipe offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Perfecting Fresh cherry BBQ sauce recipe Cooking Process
Start by washing and pitting your fresh cherries, then sauté onions and garlic in a pan until fragrant. Add cherries, vinegar, and spices, simmering this mix while you grill your meat. This way, everything finishes at the same time, ensuring a scrumptious meal.
Add Your Touch to Fresh cherry BBQ sauce recipe
Want to jazz things up? Swap out the apple cider vinegar for balsamic for a richer taste or add some chipotle for a smoky kick. You could also toss in some fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to elevate those flavors even further!
Storing & Reheating Fresh cherry BBQ sauce recipe
To store your delicious creation, simply transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to two weeks. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat to preserve that divine flavor without burning.
Chef's Helpful Tips for Fresh cherry BBQ sauce recipe
- This amazing Fresh cherry BBQ sauce recipe offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
When making this recipe, I remember a summer barbecue where friends raved about the sauce—one even asked if I was hiding a secret ingredient! It was just love and fresh cherries doing their magic together.
FAQs About Fresh cherry BBQ sauce recipe
What is Fresh cherry BBQ sauce recipe?
Fresh cherry BBQ sauce recipe combines the sweetness of ripe cherries with tangy barbecue flavors. This unique sauce enhances grilled meats and vegetables, offering a delightful twist to traditional BBQ sauces. It typically includes ingredients like fresh cherries, vinegar, sugar, and spices. grilled chicken recipe The result is a rich, flavorful sauce that adds depth to your dishes. Using fresh cherries ensures a vibrant taste, making this recipe perfect for summer cookouts or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with a homemade touch.
How do I store Fresh cherry BBQ sauce?
To store your fresh cherry BBQ sauce, first allow it to cool completely if you’ve just made it. Transfer the cooled sauce into an airtight container or a glass jar. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For longer storage, consider freezing it. Pour the sauce into ice cube trays for easy portioning before transferring them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to use it, simply thaw the desired amount in the fridge overnight or heat it gently on the stove.
Can I modify the Fresh cherry BBQ sauce recipe?
Absolutely! Modifying the fresh cherry BBQ sauce recipe allows you to tailor it to your taste preferences. You can adjust sweetness by adding more or less sugar or substitute honey for a different flavor profile. Additionally, consider incorporating spices like cayenne pepper for heat or smoked paprika for an extra smoky flavor. Experimenting with different types of vinegar can also change the overall taste, giving you a personalized barbecue experience that suits your palate perfectly.
What dishes pair well with Fresh cherry BBQ sauce?
Fresh cherry BBQ sauce complements various dishes beautifully. It pairs excellently with grilled meats such as chicken, ribs, and pork chops, enhancing their flavors with its sweet-tart profile. You can also use it as a glaze for roasted vegetables or spread it on burgers for added zest. This versatile sauce can even be drizzled over grilled fish or tofu for a delightful vegetarian option. Don’t hesitate to explore creative ways to incorporate this vibrant sauce into your meals!
Conclusion for Fresh cherry BBQ sauce recipe
In summary, the fresh cherry BBQ sauce recipe offers a delicious alternative to traditional sauces by combining fruity sweetness with savory flavors. This easy-to-make condiment elevates your grilling game while being adaptable to various dishes. With proper storage techniques, you can enjoy this vibrant sauce for weeks or even months after preparation. Whether brushing it on meats or using it as a dip, this fresh cherry BBQ sauce will become a staple in your culinary repertoire!
Fresh Cherry BBQ Sauce
Elevate your summer cookouts with this vibrant Fresh Cherry BBQ Sauce that beautifully balances sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors. Made from juicy, ripe cherries and simple pantry staples, this sauce is perfect for slathering on grilled meats or using as a dipping sauce. Enjoy the essence of summer in every bite!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 1 cup (8 servings) 1x
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh cherries, pitted
- 1 cup ketchup
- ½ cup apple cider vinegar
- ⅓ cup brown sugar
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash and pit the fresh cherries.
- Blend the pitted cherries, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar until smooth.
- Pour the mixture into a saucepan over medium heat.
- Stir in garlic powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper; mix well.
- Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for about 20 minutes until thickened.
- Cool for 10 minutes before transferring to an airtight container.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons (30g)
- Calories: 45
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 105mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg





