Timeless BBQ Sauce

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook: 30 min
🍽 Serves: 12
★★★★★
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There's something magical about a BBQ sauce that hits all the right notes — tangy, sweet, and smoky. This Timeless BBQ Sauce is perfect for those summer cookouts or cozy winter dinners, bringing a classic taste to your table year-round.

Ingredients for Timeless BBQ Sauce

The base is ketchup, providing a sweet and tangy foundation. Apple cider vinegar adds a sharp, fruity acidity that balances the sweetness. The brown sugar lends a deep, molasses-like sweetness, while Worcestershire sauce introduces savory umami notes. Adding a kick is the mustard powder, giving a mild heat and depth. Smoked paprika infuses a rich, smoky flavor. Both garlic powder and onion powder provide a subtle, savory undertone. Cayenne pepper adds a gentle heat, while black pepper and salt round out the flavors. Finally, the touch of molasses and butter enriches the sauce with a smooth, glossy finish.

Tips & Tricks

  • For a thicker sauce, simmer a bit longer to reduce more moisture.
  • If you like it spicier, add a pinch more cayenne or a dash of hot sauce at the end.
  • Store in a sealed container in the fridge for up to two weeks.

Serving Suggestions

Brush this BBQ sauce on grilled chicken or ribs for a delightful glaze. It’s also excellent as a dipping sauce for fries or chicken tenders. For a unique twist, use it as a pizza base topped with grilled meats and veggies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use white vinegar instead of apple cider vinegar?
Yes, but it will alter the flavor slightly. Apple cider vinegar provides a more complex and fruity taste.
Is there a substitute for molasses?
You can use honey, though it will be a bit sweeter and less robust.
How do I make this sauce vegan?
Replace the butter with a plant-based alternative to keep it vegan-friendly.

Timeless BBQ Sauce Recipe Walkthrough

Start by grabbing a medium-sized saucepan and place it over medium heat. Pour in the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar. Stir these together until the sugar dissolves and everything looks well-blended.

Next, add the flavor powerhouses: Worcestershire sauce, mustard powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt. Stir these into the mix, ensuring the spices are evenly distributed.

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Keep stirring frequently to prevent sticking or burning. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to keep the flavors marrying beautifully.

After simmering, add the finishing touches: stir in the molasses and butter until they melt into the sauce, giving it a lovely sheen and depth of flavor. Once combined, remove the saucepan from the heat and let the sauce cool before using or storing.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to make — ready in under 30 minutes.
  • Balanced flavors — it’s tangy, sweet, and smoky.
  • Perfect for marinating, basting, or as a dipping sauce.
  • Uses pantry staples — nothing too fancy needed.

Ingredients

2 cups ketchup
1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
1/4 cup packed brown sugar
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tbsp mustard powder
1 tbsp smoked paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
1/2 tsp salt
1 tbsp molasses
2 tbsp unsalted butter

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, mustard powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt.
3. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring frequently.
4. Reduce the heat to low and let simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Stir in molasses and butter until well combined.
6. Remove from heat and let cool before using or storing.

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