Touchdown Treats: Wild Cherry Pepsi NFL Playoffs Recipes for Victory!

Get ready for some serious playoff action! The NFL playoffs are here, and that means it’s time to gather your friends, don your favorite team’s jersey, and, most importantly, prepare a feast worthy of champions. But this year, we’re adding a special twist: we’re incorporating the bold and refreshing flavor of free Pepsi Wild Cherry into our game-day spread. Yes, you read that right – FREE Pepsi Wild Cherry! (Check your local promotions and retailers for details on how to score some free Pepsi Wild Cherry – trust us, it’s worth it!).

We’ve curated a collection of mouthwatering recipes that perfectly complement the sweet and tangy notes of Pepsi Wild Cherry. From savory snacks to sweet treats, these recipes are sure to score big with your entire crew. So, huddle up and let’s get cooking!

## Why Pepsi Wild Cherry is the Ultimate Playoff Pairing

Before we dive into the recipes, let’s talk about why Pepsi Wild Cherry is the MVP of your playoff party. Its unique cherry flavor provides a delightful contrast to the rich and savory flavors often found in game-day snacks. The carbonation cuts through the richness, refreshing your palate and making you ready for the next bite. Plus, who can resist that iconic Wild Cherry taste? It’s a crowd-pleaser, guaranteed.

And this year, with the possibility of getting it for FREE, it’s even more of a reason to make Pepsi Wild Cherry a staple at your playoff gatherings. Imagine the bragging rights you’ll have when you’re serving up delicious food AND free drinks! Your guests will be cheering for you as much as they’re cheering for their teams.

## Recipes to Score Big with Free Pepsi Wild Cherry

Now, let’s get to the good stuff – the recipes! We’ve included a variety of options to suit different tastes and skill levels. Don’t be afraid to experiment and add your own personal touch to these dishes. After all, the best game-day spread is one that’s made with love (and a little bit of Pepsi Wild Cherry!).

### 1. Wild Cherry Pepsi BBQ Ribs

These ribs are fall-off-the-bone tender and infused with the sweet and tangy flavor of Pepsi Wild Cherry. They’re guaranteed to be a touchdown with your guests!

**Ingredients:**

* 4 lbs pork ribs
* 1 bottle (12 oz) Pepsi Wild Cherry
* 1 cup ketchup
* 1/2 cup brown sugar
* 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
* 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
* 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1 teaspoon onion powder
* 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
* Salt and pepper to taste

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Ribs:** Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs. Season generously with salt and pepper.
2. **Make the BBQ Sauce:** In a large saucepan, combine Pepsi Wild Cherry, ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-45 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
3. **Cook the Ribs:** Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the ribs in a baking dish and pour half of the BBQ sauce over them. Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 2-3 hours, or until the ribs are tender.
4. **Finish the Ribs:** Remove the ribs from the oven and discard the foil. Brush the ribs with the remaining BBQ sauce. Increase the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce is caramelized and sticky.
5. **Serve:** Let the ribs rest for a few minutes before cutting them into individual portions. Serve with extra BBQ sauce, if desired, and plenty of napkins!

**Pepsi Wild Cherry Pairing Notes:** The sweetness of the Pepsi Wild Cherry BBQ sauce is perfectly balanced by the savory flavor of the ribs. The carbonation of the drink helps to cut through the richness of the sauce, making each bite even more enjoyable.

### 2. Wild Cherry Pepsi Chicken Wings

Looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer? These Wild Cherry Pepsi chicken wings are a guaranteed win! They’re crispy, flavorful, and incredibly addictive.

**Ingredients:**

* 2 lbs chicken wings
* 1/2 bottle (6 oz) Pepsi Wild Cherry
* 1/4 cup soy sauce
* 2 tablespoons honey
* 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
* 1 tablespoon sesame oil
* 1 teaspoon grated ginger
* 1 clove garlic, minced
* 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
* Salt and pepper to taste

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Wings:** Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
2. **Make the Marinade:** In a bowl, whisk together Pepsi Wild Cherry, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. **Marinate the Wings:** Place the chicken wings in a large resealable bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.
4. **Bake the Wings:** Remove the chicken wings from the marinade and place them on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the wings are cooked through and the skin is crispy, flipping halfway through.
5. **Serve:** Serve the wings immediately with your favorite dipping sauce and a cold Pepsi Wild Cherry.

**Pepsi Wild Cherry Pairing Notes:** The sweet and savory marinade perfectly complements the crispy chicken wings. The Pepsi Wild Cherry adds a touch of sweetness and tang that balances the saltiness of the soy sauce. The carbonation cleanses your palate, leaving you wanting more.

### 3. Wild Cherry Pepsi Glazed Ham Sliders

These mini ham sliders are a delicious and easy-to-eat snack that’s perfect for game day. The Wild Cherry Pepsi glaze adds a touch of sweetness and complexity that elevates this classic appetizer.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 lb cooked ham, sliced thin
* 1/4 bottle (3 oz) Pepsi Wild Cherry
* 1/4 cup brown sugar
* 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
* 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
* 12 slider buns
* Optional toppings: Swiss cheese, lettuce, tomato, pickles

**Instructions:**

1. **Make the Glaze:** In a small saucepan, combine Pepsi Wild Cherry, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-10 minutes, or until the glaze has thickened slightly.
2. **Assemble the Sliders:** Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cut the slider buns in half. Spread a thin layer of the Wild Cherry Pepsi glaze on the bottom buns. Top with sliced ham, Swiss cheese (if using), and other desired toppings.
3. **Bake the Sliders:** Place the sliders on a baking sheet and bake for 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the buns are lightly toasted.
4. **Serve:** Serve the sliders immediately with a cold Pepsi Wild Cherry.

**Pepsi Wild Cherry Pairing Notes:** The sweet and tangy Wild Cherry Pepsi glaze adds a delicious twist to the classic ham slider. The Pepsi Wild Cherry itself complements the sweetness of the glaze and the saltiness of the ham, creating a balanced and flavorful bite.

### 4. Wild Cherry Pepsi Float

Need a sweet treat to cool down during a heated game? Look no further than this simple and refreshing Wild Cherry Pepsi float! It’s the perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth and celebrate a touchdown.

**Ingredients:**

* Pepsi Wild Cherry, chilled
* Vanilla ice cream
* Maraschino cherries (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Glass:** Fill a tall glass about 3/4 full with Pepsi Wild Cherry.
2. **Add Ice Cream:** Add a scoop or two of vanilla ice cream to the glass.
3. **Garnish and Serve:** Top with a maraschino cherry (if using) and serve immediately with a spoon and a straw.

**Pepsi Wild Cherry Pairing Notes:** This float is a classic combination of sweet and bubbly. The vanilla ice cream complements the Wild Cherry flavor of the Pepsi, creating a creamy and refreshing treat. It’s the perfect way to end your game-day feast on a sweet note.

### 5. Wild Cherry Pepsi Jell-O Shots (21+ Only)

For the adult fans, these Wild Cherry Pepsi Jell-O shots are a fun and festive way to celebrate the playoffs. They’re easy to make and guaranteed to get the party started (responsibly, of course!).

**Ingredients:**

* 1 cup Pepsi Wild Cherry
* 1/2 cup vodka (or your favorite clear liquor)
* 1 packet (0.25 oz) unflavored gelatin
* Maraschino cherries, halved (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. **Bloom the Gelatin:** In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 1/2 cup of cold Pepsi Wild Cherry. Let it stand for 5 minutes to soften.
2. **Heat the Remaining Pepsi:** In a saucepan, heat the remaining 1/2 cup of Pepsi Wild Cherry over medium heat until it’s hot but not boiling. Remove from heat.
3. **Dissolve the Gelatin:** Add the softened gelatin to the hot Pepsi Wild Cherry and stir until completely dissolved.
4. **Add the Vodka:** Stir in the vodka.
5. **Pour into Cups:** Pour the mixture into small cups or shot glasses. Add a maraschino cherry half to each cup (if using).
6. **Chill:** Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until the Jell-O is set.
7. **Serve:** Serve the Jell-O shots chilled and enjoy responsibly!

**Pepsi Wild Cherry Pairing Notes:** The Wild Cherry Pepsi flavor masks the taste of the vodka, making these Jell-O shots surprisingly smooth and easy to drink. They’re a fun and festive way to celebrate the playoffs with your adult friends.

## Tips for a Successful Playoff Party with Free Pepsi Wild Cherry

* **Plan Ahead:** Make a list of all the ingredients you need and shop ahead of time. Prepare as much of the food as possible in advance to reduce stress on game day.
* **Set the Mood:** Decorate your space with team colors and logos. Play some upbeat music to get everyone in the spirit.
* **Keep the Drinks Flowing:** Make sure you have plenty of Pepsi Wild Cherry (hopefully FREE!), ice, and other beverages on hand. Set up a self-serve drink station so guests can easily help themselves.
* **Don’t Forget the Snacks:** In addition to the recipes above, offer a variety of other snacks like chips, dips, pretzels, and popcorn.
* **Relax and Enjoy:** The most important thing is to relax and have fun! After all, it’s just a game (and a party!).

## Get Your Free Pepsi Wild Cherry! (Where Available)

Remember to check your local grocery stores and retailers for promotions and opportunities to get FREE Pepsi Wild Cherry during the NFL playoffs. Keep an eye out for special displays, coupons, and online offers. Imagine the satisfaction of serving up these delicious recipes with a FREE beverage – now that’s a winning play!

## Conclusion

With these delicious recipes and a plentiful supply of Pepsi Wild Cherry (especially if you can score some for free!), you’re well on your way to hosting the ultimate NFL playoff party. So, gather your friends, fire up the grill, and get ready to cheer on your favorite team – and enjoy some incredible food and drinks! May your team win, and may your taste buds be satisfied!