If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing, flavor-packed BBQ pulled pork recipe that practically cooks itself, this Cherry Coke Pulled Pork is about to become your new favorite. Created by @svenddiesel, this dish combines the rich, smoky goodness of slow cooker pulled pork BBQ with the sweet, caramelized magic of cherry cola.
The result? Tender, juicy, sweet and smoky pulled pork that melts in your mouth with every bite—perfect for backyard BBQs, game day gatherings, or easy weeknight dinners.
Why Cherry Coke Works So Well
It might sound unusual, but using Cherry Coke in this pork shoulder BBQ recipe is a game-changer. As the pork cooks low and slow, the sugars in the soda caramelize and help create a sweet, tangy depth of flavor while keeping the meat incredibly moist and tender. The acidity and carbonation also help break down the meat fibers, making this one of the best pulled pork recipes for effortless shredding.
Ingredients
- 4–5 lb pork shoulder (or pork butt)
- 1 can (12 oz) Cherry Coke
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite BBQ sauce)
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1–2 tsp liquid smoke (optional, but recommended)
Instructions
1. Prep the Pork
Pat the pork shoulder dry and place it in a prep tub for easy seasoning and cleanup—especially helpful for BBQ meal prep ideas and keeping your workspace clean.
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the pork.
2. Add the Flavor
Pour the Cherry Coke around the pork, then drizzle the barbecue sauce over the top to build that classic homemade BBQ pulled pork flavor.
3. Slow Cook
Cover and cook:
- Low: 8–10 hours
- High: 5–6 hours
This low-and-slow method is key for achieving tender low and slow BBQ pork. If you're cooking outdoors or using a smoker, maintaining temperature is crucial. Using our Rest EZ® BBQ Blanket helps stabilize heat and is a must-have tool for consistent smoker pulled pork recipes.
4. Shred and Soak
Remove the pork and let it rest for about 10–15 minutes. Then shred it using two forks or our BBQ Meat Claws. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and toss it in the juices for maximum flavor—this step locks in that rich, easy BBQ recipe taste.
5. Serve
Pile the pulled pork onto buns, tacos, nachos, or enjoy it straight from the plate. It’s a versatile favorite for BBQ party food ideas and casual family meals alike.
BBQ Tips for Perfect Pulled Pork
- Use pork shoulder or pork butt for authentic Southern-style BBQ pulled pork
- Maintain consistent heat for the best smoked pulled pork texture
- Use a Rest EZ® BBQ Blanket to regulate temperature in grills or smokers
- Use heat-resistant grill mitts when handling hot meat or cookware for safer cooking
- Let the meat rest before shredding for juicy, flavorful results
- Add extra BBQ sauce at the end for bold, sticky goodness
Serving Ideas
This dish fits right into all your backyard BBQ ideas and gatherings:
- Classic BBQ pulled pork sandwiches with coleslaw
- Pulled pork sliders for parties and game day BBQ recipes
- BBQ nachos or loaded fries
- Smoked pulled pork tacos or burrito bowls
- Southern-style BBQ plates with baked beans and cornbread
This Cherry Coke Pulled Pork recipe delivers everything you want in a pork shoulder BBQ recipe—it’s easy, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it in a slow cooker or adapting it for a smoker, it’s one of those easy BBQ recipes you’ll come back to again and again.
With the right tools and techniques, you can turn a simple cut of pork into a standout homemade BBQ pulled pork dish that’s guaranteed to impress.
