Barbecue (BBQ) flavored Doritos have become a beloved and iconic snack food over the years. But when exactly did this popular chip flavor first make its debut? Let’s take a look back at the history of BBQ Doritos and see how they came to be a pantry staple.
Introduction
Doritos are a classic tortilla chip brand owned by Frito-Lay that first launched in 1964. Over the decades, Doritos have released various new flavors – from Nacho Cheese in 1972 to Cool Ranch in 1986. BBQ Doritos entered the scene in the 1990s, capturing fans with their sweet yet smoky barbecue flavor.
BBQ Doritos have since become one of the most popular flavors of Doritos. Their tangy barbecue taste makes them an irresistible snack. But it took some time for this beloved flavor to make it to market after the original nacho cheese and taco flavored Doritos were released.
Origins in the 1990s
BBQ Doritos made their debut in the mid-1990s. They were released as a limited-edition flavor at first, available only for a short time to see how consumers responded.
The initial limited release was met with enthusiasm from fans, who loved the combination of barbecue seasoning and crunch of Doritos. Due to popular demand, BBQ Doritos were soon added to the regular Doritos flavor lineup nationwide by 1996. They’ve been a standard Doritos variety now for over 20 years.
Key Details on the Debut
While an exact date is elusive, we can pin down the details around when BBQ Doritos first emerged:
- Early to Mid-1990s – BBQ Doritos were launched originally as a limited-time flavor in the early to mid-1990s. The exact year is unclear but is estimated to be around 1994 or 1995.
- Limited Trial Run – The limited release allowed Frito-Lay to test the new flavor before committing to a nationwide rollout. Only select markets received the first version.
- Quickly Became Popular – Thanks to positive customer response, BBQ Doritos moved from limited release to permanent flavor within about a year’s time.
- Nationwide by 1996 – On the heels of success in test markets, BBQ Doritos were available across the U.S. by 1996. This made the flavor a fixture in the Doritos lineup.
So while we don’t know the precise date BBQ Doritos first appeared, we can confirm it occurred during the mid-90s mania for zesty chip flavors. Their immediate success led to BBQ becoming a Doritos standard we still enjoy today.
Flavor Profile
So what exactly gives BBQ Doritos their addictive smoky taste? These chips pack a one-two punch of sweet and spice.
- Sweet Notes – BBQ seasoning has underlying sweetness, often from brown sugar. BBQ Doritos balance this with molasses and maple flavor.
- Smoky Kick – Oven-roasted and grill flavors add smokiness. Paprika and chili pepper provide a slow, lingering heat.
- Tangy Barbecue – Spices like garlic and onion round out the taste. It’s a robust barbecue blend that coats each crunchy tortilla chip.
This combination of sweet, smoky, tangy, and spicy is what makes BBQ Doritos so hard to stop eating once you pop open a bag. It’s a worthy addition to the Doritos flavor catalog.
Popularity Over the Years
Ever since their arrival in the 90s, BBQ Doritos have retained a passionate fan base. Here’s a look at their lasting popularity:
- Quick Adoption – BBQ Doritos found immediate success once launched nationwide in 1996. Sales and fan feedback showed consumers loved this new flavor.
- Strong Sales – Decades later, BBQ Doritos remain a top-selling variety for Doritos. They continue to have broad appeal across demographics.
- Cult Following – BBQ Doritos have a devoted following of fans who reliably purchase this flavor. Many consider it their all-time favorite Doritos variety.
- Nostalgic Appeal – Those who first tried BBQ Doritos when launched in the 90s remain loyal to the flavor for its nostalgia factor.
- Limited Time Returns – BBQ Doritos have been brought back for limited runs after being “retired,” much to the delight of longtime fans.
The lasting devotion to BBQ Doritos speaks to the flavor’s craveable taste. Once a fan, always a fan.
How BBQ Doritos Are Celebrated Today
For over 20 years and counting, BBQ Doritos have been a pantry staple and enjoyed in a variety of ways:
- Snacking – Many enthusiasts cite BBQ Doritos as their go-to choice when craving a salty, barbecue-dusted snack. The chips are perfect for munching straight from the bag.
- Add-Ins – BBQ Doritos are often used as a topping on dishes like nachos, tacos, chili, and baked potatoes to provide crunch and tangy flavor.
- Cooking Ingredient – When crushed up, BBQ Doritos make a flavorful coating for chicken tenders, fish fillets, and more. Their dust also seasons casseroles and ground beef.
- Special Releases – BBQ Doritos sometimes get limited re-releases that become hot commodities for both nostalgia and their unique taste.
- Viral Sensations – Cooks have come up with viral BBQ Doritos-inspired recipes like Doritos candy bark that launch trends and conversations.
It’s clear BBQ Doritos have earned an enduring place in American snack culture since their 1990s start.
The Future of BBQ Doritos
BBQ Doritos show no signs of slowing down. What does the future look like for this beloved chip?
- New Limited Editions – Seasonal and specialty BBQ Doritos will continue to make limited-time appearances to excite fans.
- Innovative Flavors – Frito-Lay may build upon the BBQ Doritos concept with new twists, like adding jalapeño or another complementary flavor.
- Package Redesigns – To keep the brand feeling fresh, updated packaging designs for BBQ Doritos are likely on the horizon.
- Premium Versions – More premium or artisanal versions of BBQ Doritos could capture new audiences willing to pay more for unique flavors.
- Big Fan Events – BBQ Doritos may be celebrated with larger-scale gatherings and promotions that pay homage to this classic flavor.
No matter what form they take, BBQ Doritos have proven their staying power. This beloved snack is sure to continue satisfying cravings for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions About BBQ Doritos
When exactly did BBQ Doritos first go on sale?
While an exact date is unknown, BBQ Doritos first hit store shelves in a limited capacity sometime between 1994-1995. They quickly became popular and reached nationwide distribution by 1996.
Where was BBQ Doritos originally test launched?
BBQ Doritos were first test launched only in select regional markets before their nationwide release. It’s unclear exactly which test markets received the first taste.
Have BBQ Doritos ever been discontinued?
BBQ Doritos have remained in continuous production since their introduction in the 1990s. However, they have had brief limited-time retirements followed by popular demand for their return.
What special flavors have BBQ Doritos come in?
BBQ Doritos have occasionally been released in unique flavors for a limited time, such as BBQ with Jalapeño and Chipotle BBQ. After the promotional period ends, the original BBQ flavor returns.
How do BBQ Doritos differ from other barbecue chips?
BBQ Doritos have a more subtle smoky flavor compared to many other BBQ chips. Their taste relies more on spices than artificial smoke flavoring, making them unique.
Conclusion
BBQ Doritos established themselves in the mid-1990s as a stand-out barbecue flavored tortilla chip. Winning over snackers with their addictive sweet and smoky taste, BBQ Doritos easily transitioned from limited release to national sensation. Today they remain popular as ever, satisfying cravings with a flavor that evokes delicious summertime barbecue. BBQ Doritos have certainly earned their place among the most iconic Doritos varieties, persistence as a nostalgic favorite, and reputation as the perfect party appetizer. The next time you’re looking for a satisfyingly crunchy, tangy, and bold tortilla chip, choose the tried and true taste of BBQ Doritos.