Sweet & Smoky Bourbon BBQ Sauce Recipe: The Ultimate Homemade Grilling Companion

Homemade Sweet & Smoky Bourbon BBQ Sauce Recipe

Looking for the perfect bourbon BBQ sauce recipe that combines sweet, smoky, and a touch of whiskey complexity? This homemade sauce delivers everything you need for your next cookout! Rich bourbon flavor meets tangy tomato and brown sugar in this versatile sauce that’s perfect for ribs, chicken, pulled pork, or even as a dipping sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Bourbon Whiskey BBQ Sauce

There’s something magical about the combination of bourbon and barbecue. The whiskey adds depth and complexity while the sweet and tangy elements create that perfect balance that makes your taste buds dance. This sauce is:

• Versatile – Works on everything from ribs to chicken to burgers
• Make-ahead friendly – Flavors develop even more after a day in the fridge
• Crowd-pleasing – The perfect blend of sweet, smoky, and tangy
• Gift-worthy – Pour it into mason jars for a homemade gift!

Prep Time and Cook Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 32 servings (approximately 4 cups)

Ingredients for the Perfect Bourbon BBQ Sauce

• ¾ cup bourbon whiskey
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups ketchup
• ½ cup apple cider vinegar
• ¾ cup brown sugar, packed
• ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce
• ¼ cup molasses
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon liquid smoke (optional, for extra smokiness)
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ¼ teaspoon salt

How to Make Bourbon BBQ Sauce Step-by-Step

1. Combine bourbon, garlic, and diced onion in a large skillet over medium heat. Simmer until the onion becomes translucent and soft, about 10 minutes.
2. Add ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, molasses, Dijon mustard, liquid smoke (if using), black pepper, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, and salt to the skillet. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer the sauce, uncovered, for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The sauce should thicken slightly and develop a rich, glossy appearance.
4. Remove from heat and allow the sauce to cool slightly.
5. For a smoother consistency, carefully transfer the sauce to a blender or use an immersion blender to puree until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can leave as is.
6. Allow the sauce to cool completely before transferring to glass jars or storage containers.

Pro Tips for the Best Bourbon BBQ Sauce

• Choose your bourbon wisely: Use a bourbon you’d enjoy drinking but doesn’t break the bank. The flavor will concentrate as it cooks.
• Let it develop: This sauce tastes even better after sitting overnight in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to meld together.
• Adjust the heat: For a spicier sauce, increase the cayenne pepper or add a dash of hot sauce.
• Watch the simmer: Stir frequently during cooking to prevent scorching, especially as the sauce thickens.
• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, or freeze for longer storage.

Ways to Use Your Homemade Bourbon BBQ Sauce

This versatile sauce works wonders on nearly everything that hits your grill or smoker:

• Brush on ribs during the last 30 minutes of cooking
• Toss with pulled pork or chicken
• Use as a dipping sauce for grilled chicken
• Spread on burgers just before serving
• Mix with shredded chicken for BBQ chicken sandwiches
• Use as a marinade for meats (dilute slightly with additional bourbon or apple juice)
• Drizzle over loaded baked potatoes

Nutrition Information

Frequently Asked Questions About Bourbon BBQ Sauce

Does the alcohol cook out of bourbon BBQ sauce?

Most of the alcohol will evaporate during cooking, but a small percentage may remain. If alcohol content is a concern, you can extend the cooking time or substitute apple juice plus a teaspoon of vanilla extract for a similar flavor profile.

Can I make this sauce less sweet?

Absolutely! Simply reduce the amount of brown sugar and/or molasses to your taste preference. You may want to add a bit more vinegar to maintain the balance.

How long does homemade bourbon BBQ sauce last?

When stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator, this sauce will keep well for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, freeze portions in ice cube trays, then transfer to freezer bags for up to 3 months.

Can I can this bourbon BBQ sauce for long-term storage?

This recipe has not been tested for water bath or pressure canning safety. For long-term preservation, freezing is recommended.

Perfect Your Grilling Game with Homemade Bourbon BBQ Sauce

Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or weekend griller, this bourbon BBQ sauce recipe will elevate your barbecue to new heights. The deep, complex flavor of bourbon whiskey combined with sweet and tangy elements creates the perfect balance for all your favorite grilled foods. Make a batch today and discover why homemade always tastes better!

Recipe inspired by AllRecipes’ Bourbon Whiskey BBQ Sauce