Arbys Bronco Berry Sauce [My Winning Copycat Recipe]

Arby’s Bronco Berry; that delightful sweet and tangy jelly-like sauce that comes included with the Jalapeño Bites and Cheese Side Kickers.

It brings A LOT to the table, even if the name is a little out there and perhaps even a little deceiving (as we shall soon find out in my favorite copycat recipe).

If you are here, chances are you are already familiar with the sauce and want to make some at home yourself.

But there could be a few of you reading who are yet to try it and and want to learn more about it, before you order, or give it a try.

I’m here to cater to both audiences.

So without further ado, let’s get into it.

What Is Arby’s Bronco Berry Sauce?

Arby’s Bronco Berry sauce is a sweet, tangy red jelly-like dipping sauce. It’s also great as a sauce for sandwiches, and burgers too.

So, why is it called berry sauce if it doesn’t include berries.

Well, I’d hazard a guess that its to do two main reasons:

1. Its vibrant color,
2. It’s jelly/jam-like texture.

What Does Bronco Berry Taste Like?

Arby’s Bronco Berry Sauce is sweet, with a subtle hint of spice and slight sourness.

What Do You Need To Make Arby’s Bronco Berry Sauce?

Corn Syrup

Corn syrup is a sweetening agent derived from cornstarch.

It has a high sugar content which not only adds sweetness to the sauce, but also contributes to its glossy appearance and thick, syrupy consistency.

Water

Water is used to dilute the other ingredients, making the sauce less dense and helping to achieve the desired consistency.

It also aids in combining the other ingredients and distributing their flavors evenly throughout the sauce.

Bell Pepper

Bell pepper provides a touch of natural sweetness and a crunch in the sauce.

It also gives the sauce a vibrant color and a hint of earthiness. The red variety is typically sweeter than green or yellow bell peppers.

Distilled Vinegar

Distilled vinegar gives the sauce its tartness and tang.

It helps balance out the sweetness of the corn syrup and bell pepper, while also acting as a preservative to extend the sauce’s shelf life.

Corn Starch

Corn starch acts as a thickening agent.

When mixed with a bit of cold water to form a slurry and then added to the sauce, it helps achieve the right consistency, giving the sauce a smooth and rich texture.

Jalapeno Pepper

Jalapeno pepper provides a kick of heat to the sauce.

This contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the other ingredients, adding a bit of complexity to the sauce’s flavor profile.

Dehydrated Onion

Dehydrated onion provides a subtle, savory background flavor.

It adds a certain depth to the sauce that complements the sweetness and heat from the other ingredients.

Salt

Salt is used to enhance the flavors of the other ingredients.

It brings out the sweetness and heat in the sauce and balances the tartness of the vinegar.

Spice

The use of spices in the sauce allows for a range of flavors and aromas.

For instance, a mix of paprika, cumin, and garlic powder could add smoky, earthy, and savory notes respectively, rounding out the sauce’s overall flavor profile.

How To Make Arbys Bronco Berry Sauce

Step One: In a pan, mix corn syrup, water, bell pepper, and vinegar; heat to simmer.

Step Two: Mix corn starch with water to make a slurry.

Step Three: Add slurry to the simmering sauce, stir until incorporated.

Step Four: Add jalapeno, onion, salt, and spice; stir well.

Step Five: Lower heat; simmer for 20 minutes till thick, stirring occasionally.

Step Six: Remove from heat; let cool.

Step Seven: Refrigerate for a few hours before serving.

Expert Tips When Making Arbys Bronco Berry Sauce

Be Precise In Your Chopping

When chopping your bell pepper and jalapeno, aim for a consistent, fine dice.

This will ensure a smoother sauce and even distribution of flavor.

Taste As You Go

Everyone’s palate is different.

Adjust the salt, spice, and sugar levels to suit your preference.

Be Patient

Be patient when adding the cornstarch slurry.

It may take a few minutes to thicken the sauce, but rushing this step can result in a lumpy texture.

Adjust The Spice

If you prefer a milder sauce, remove the seeds and membrane from the jalapeno pepper before chopping.

For more heat, leave them in.

Refrigeration Is Key

Don’t skip the refrigeration step.

Allowing the sauce to chill not only thickens it further but also lets the flavors meld together for a deeper, more complex taste.

Store Mindfully

Keep the sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

For longer storage, you can freeze the sauce for up to three months.

Thaw overnight in the fridge before using.

Reheat Carefully

If needed, you can gently reheat the sauce in a small saucepan over low heat or in the microwave using short bursts, stirring often to ensure even heating.

What To Eat Arbys Bronco Berry Sauce With?

Arby’s Bronco Berry Sauce is incredibly versatile and can enhance a variety of dishes.

Remember, the possibilities are endless. Experiment and see where this delicious sauce takes your taste buds!

Though, here are some suggestions:

Dipping Foods

This sauce is great as a dip for fried or baked snacks.

Try it with chicken nuggets, french fries, or mozzarella sticks. It’s also a fantastic accompaniment for egg rolls, spring rolls, and fried dumplings.

Sandwiches

The sweet and spicy flavors of this sauce make it a perfect spread for sandwiches.

It can add an interesting twist to a traditional turkey or roast beef sandwich.

You could also spread it on burgers for a unique flavor.

With Meat

Bronco Berry Sauce can be used as a glaze or dipping sauce for grilled or roasted meats.

It pairs especially well with pork and chicken. Brush it on your meats before grilling, or serve it on the side for dipping.