I’ve always loved recreating restaurant-style sauces at home, and one of my all-time favorites has to be Arby’s Bronco Berry Sauce. It’s not your typical berry sauce—it’s a perfect mix of sweet, spicy, and slightly tangy flavors that makes it irresistible with everything from crispy snacks to grilled meats. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make with a few pantry staples and a handful of fresh ingredients.
This homemade version has that same bold punch, minus any preservatives or artificial flavors. The sweet base from berries combines beautifully with the mild heat of jalapeños, and a splash of vinegar balances everything out just right. Whether I’m using it as a dipping sauce for chicken tenders or drizzling it over a sandwich, it always brings that signature zing I crave.
When I first tasted Bronco Berry Sauce, I was surprised by how it brought together fruity sweetness and spicy warmth without being overpowering. That’s what I love about it—it’s complex but still really approachable. Over time, I’ve tweaked and tested the recipe to get it just right, and now I’m excited to share the version that works best for me.
This sauce is especially great when I want to jazz up simple meals. It turns ordinary finger foods into something special. I also like making a batch and storing it in the fridge so I can grab it whenever I need to add some flavor excitement to my dishes.
If you’ve ever wanted to enjoy the flavor of Arby’s Bronco Berry Sauce at home—or you’re just looking for a fresh, flavorful condiment with a bit of a kick—this recipe is the one to try. It’s quick, easy, and delivers big on taste.
Ingredients for Easy Arby’s Bronco Berry Sauce
To create this flavorful sauce at home, you’ll only need a few simple ingredients. Each one plays a key role in building the perfect balance of sweetness, heat, and tang.
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Red Bell Pepper – Finely chopped, this adds natural sweetness and a mild bite. It also gives the sauce its vibrant red color.
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Jalapeño Pepper – For that signature heat. Adjust the amount based on how spicy you like it.
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Mixed Berries (frozen or fresh) – Raspberries, blackberries, or a blend work great. They bring the fruity base to the sauce.
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Apple Cider Vinegar – This adds a tangy brightness that enhances the overall flavor.
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Sugar – Regular granulated sugar balances out the acidity and heat, giving the sauce its sweet character.
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Cornstarch – Used as a thickener to give the sauce its glossy, dippable texture.
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Water – Helps blend everything smoothly and controls the consistency.
How to Make Easy Arby’s Bronco Berry Sauce
Making this sauce is fast and satisfying. You’ll be surprised how close it comes to the original—and how much better it tastes when made fresh in your own kitchen.
Step 1:
In a small saucepan, combine 1/2 cup of water, 1/4 cup sugar, and 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar. Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely.
Step 2:
Add 1/2 cup mixed berries, 2 tablespoons finely chopped red bell pepper, and 1 teaspoon finely chopped jalapeño. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step 3:
Let it cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. The berries will break down and the peppers will soften, infusing the sauce with flavor.
Step 4:
In a separate small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water to create a slurry. Slowly pour this into the simmering sauce while stirring continuously.
Step 5:
Continue cooking for another 3–5 minutes until the sauce thickens. If needed, adjust the thickness by adding a splash of water or cooking a little longer.
Step 6:
Remove from heat. For a smoother texture, blend the sauce using an immersion blender or regular blender. Then strain it through a fine mesh sieve to remove seeds and pepper bits for a velvety finish.
Step 7:
Let the sauce cool to room temperature. Once cooled, transfer it to an airtight jar and store it in the fridge. It thickens slightly more as it chills.
Now you have a homemade Bronco Berry Sauce that’s vibrant, tangy, sweet, and just a little spicy—perfect as a dip, drizzle, or glaze.
How Long to Cook Bronco Berry Sauce
Cooking time for Bronco Berry Sauce is short, yet precision matters to achieve the ideal consistency and depth of flavor. From start to finish, it takes about 15–20 minutes. The simmering phase helps the berries release their natural juices and the peppers blend into the sweet base. This timing is enough to allow the sugar and vinegar to create a balanced, tangy-sweet flavor while softening the ingredients for easy blending.
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Simmer Time – Let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes after combining all ingredients. This softens the peppers and breaks down the berries.
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Thickening Time – After adding the cornstarch slurry, let the sauce cook for another 3 to 5 minutes. It will bubble gently and begin to thicken.
The final texture should be glossy, smooth, and pourable—but thick enough to cling to your food. If you prefer a thinner consistency, add a bit more water and stir well over low heat. For a thicker dip-style sauce, simmer just a little longer after adding the thickener.
How to Store Leftovers
This sauce stores beautifully, making it great for prepping ahead or using over several meals. Its vibrant taste and color remain fresh when stored properly.
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Refrigerator – Pour the cooled sauce into a clean jar or airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 7 days. Just give it a quick stir before using, especially if it thickens slightly after chilling.
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Freezer – For longer storage, you can freeze the sauce in small freezer-safe containers or ice cube trays. Once frozen, transfer cubes to a sealed bag and store for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and stir before reheating.
Tips for Perfect Bronco Berry Sauce
Getting the most out of this recipe is easy with a few simple tips. These ideas help you adjust flavors and texture to suit your preferences.
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Balance the Sweetness and Heat – Taste as you go. Add more sugar if the berries are very tart or a bit more jalapeño if you want more spice.
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Use Fresh Berries When in Season – While frozen berries are convenient, fresh berries will elevate the flavor even more when available.
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Strain for a Smooth Finish – Blending and straining gives the sauce a professional, silky texture. Skip this step if you prefer a rustic look with berry pieces.
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Cool Before Storing – Always let the sauce cool to room temperature before transferring to containers. This helps avoid condensation, which can alter the texture.
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Double the Batch – This sauce goes fast! Make a larger batch and freeze half for future meals or gatherings.
Ways to Use Bronco Berry Sauce
This sauce is more versatile than you might think. It’s not just a dip—it’s a flavor booster that pairs well with so many dishes.
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As a Dip – Perfect with chicken tenders, turkey bacon bites, or veggie fries.
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As a Glaze – Brush onto grilled chicken or beef during the last few minutes of cooking.
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In Sandwiches – Spread on wraps or sliders for a fruity kick.
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With Cheese – Serve alongside soft cheeses like goat cheese or cream cheese for an easy appetizer.
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As a Salad Drizzle – Mix a little into a vinaigrette or drizzle directly on fruit-based salads.
Bronco Berry Sauce is quick to prepare, easy to store, and packed with flavor that can elevate both everyday meals and special occasions.
Print
Easy Arby’s Bronco Berry Sauce
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 1 cup of Bronco Berry Sauce 1x
Description
These Easy Arby’s Bronco Berry Sauce is the perfect condiment to elevate your meals. Sweet, spicy, and tangy, it’s the perfect balance of flavors that will complement everything from crispy chicken tenders to grilled meats. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a casual dinner, this homemade sauce is sure to impress!
Ingredients
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1/2 cup water
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1/4 cup sugar
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1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
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1/2 cup mixed berries (fresh or frozen)
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2 tablespoons red bell pepper, finely chopped
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1 teaspoon jalapeño, finely chopped
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1 tablespoon cornstarch
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2 tablespoons water (for cornstarch slurry)
Instructions
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In a small saucepan, combine 1/2 cup water, 1/4 cup sugar, and 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar. Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely.
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Add 1/2 cup mixed berries, 2 tablespoons red bell pepper, and 1 teaspoon chopped jalapeño. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
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Let it cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. The berries will break down and the peppers will soften, infusing the sauce with flavor.
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In a separate small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water to create a slurry. Slowly pour this into the simmering sauce while stirring continuously.
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Continue cooking for another 3–5 minutes until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
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Remove from heat and blend for a smooth finish, then strain through a fine mesh sieve to remove seeds and pepper bits.
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Let the sauce cool to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate.
Notes
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For added crunch, sprinkle chopped walnuts or almonds over the pears before baking.
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These baked pears can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or enjoy cold.
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If you prefer, substitute the feta cheese with blue cheese for a stronger flavor profile.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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Can I adjust the spice level in Bronco Berry Sauce?
Yes, you can adjust the spice level based on your preference. If you prefer a milder sauce, simply reduce or omit the jalapeño pepper. Alternatively, for more heat, add an extra jalapeño or even a dash of cayenne pepper. Start with a small amount, and taste as you go to ensure you get the perfect balance for your taste buds.
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Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making the sauce a day or two ahead allows the flavors to meld even more, resulting in a richer taste. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. Just remember to give it a good stir before serving, as it might thicken slightly as it sits.
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Can I use frozen berries instead of fresh ones?
Yes, frozen berries work just as well in this recipe. They are often picked at peak ripeness and frozen immediately, so they retain their flavor and texture. Just be sure to thaw them slightly before cooking for an easier mix with the other ingredients.
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What can I substitute for the apple cider vinegar?
If you don’t have apple cider vinegar, you can substitute it with white vinegar, lemon juice, or even rice vinegar. Each option will bring a slightly different tangy profile, but they will all work well to balance the sweetness of the berries.
This sauce is incredibly adaptable, so feel free to experiment with ingredients and ratios to create a version that suits your taste perfectly.