Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Honey BBQ Sauce Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.4 from 62 reviews
  • Author: Jaden
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: about 1 1/3 cups
  • Category: Sauce
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Honey BBQ Sauce is a perfectly balanced blend of sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors, ideal for adding a delicious finishing touch to grilled meats, burgers, or as a dipping sauce. Made with simple pantry staples like ketchup, honey, and apple cider vinegar, this homemade BBQ sauce comes together quickly with a gentle simmer to meld the flavors and achieve a thick, sticky consistency.


Ingredients

Units Scale

Honey BBQ Sauce Ingredients

  • 1 cup ketchup
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions

  1. Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, add 1 cup of ketchup, 1/2 cup of honey, 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, 1/2 teaspoon each of onion powder and garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon of kosher salt, and if desired, 1/8 teaspoon of cayenne pepper. Stir all the ingredients together to create a uniform mixture.
  2. Bring to Boil: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the sauce mixture to a gentle boil. This helps to activate and meld the flavors while starting the thickening process.
  3. Simmer and Thicken: Reduce the heat to low, allowing the sauce to simmer. Stir frequently to prevent burning, and continue cooking until the sauce thickens slightly, which should take about 7 to 10 minutes. The simmering concentrates the flavors and improves the texture.
  4. Cool and Store: Remove the saucepan from heat and let the BBQ sauce cool completely before using. This resting period allows the sauce to set further. Once cooled, use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for longer shelf life.

Notes

  • Adjust the cayenne pepper to your spice preference or omit it for a milder sauce.
  • The sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
  • Stir the sauce well before each use if stored as some separation can occur.
  • Use this sauce as a marinade, glaze, or dipping sauce.
  • For a smokier flavor, add a small amount of smoked paprika or liquid smoke.