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–+ servings

Homemade Sweet & Smoky Bourbon BBQ Sauce Recipe

This smoky bourbon BBQ sauce combines generous amounts of bourbon whiskey, brown sugar, ketchup, and aromatic garlic. It strikes the perfect balance between sweet, tangy, and that distinctive whiskey warmth. Your grilled meats will never be the same!
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 32 servings
Course: Sauce
Cuisine: American
Calories: 53
Ingredients Method Nutrition

Ingredients
  

  • 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

Method
 

  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.

Nutrition

Calories: 53kcalCarbohydrates: 8gFat: 1gSodium: 297mg
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