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+ servings

Homemade Sweet and Smoky Honey BBQ Sauce Recipe

This smoky honey BBQ sauce recipe is easy to make at home and will rival anything you can buy! Delicious on wings, ribs, meatballs, or anything else.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 16 servings
Course: Sauce
Cuisine: American
Calories: 65

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup ketchup use a high-quality brand for best results
  • 1/2 cup honey local or clover honey works beautifully
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar packed
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice freshly squeezed
  • 1 teaspoon liquid smoke optional but adds authentic BBQ flavor
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper adjust to taste for heat

Method
 

  1. Gather all your ingredients and measure them out before starting.
  2. In a medium saucepan, combine the ketchup, honey, and brown sugar. Whisk together until well mixed.
  3. Add the apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and lemon juice. Stir to incorporate.
  4. Mix in the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
  5. If using liquid smoke, add it now for that authentic BBQ flavor.
  6. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
  7. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
  8. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly. The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools.
  9. Transfer to a glass jar or airtight container once completely cooled.

Nutrition

Calories: 65kcalCarbohydrates: 17gSodium: 243mgSugar: 15g
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!