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A half-full jar of honey barbecue sauce with a spoon dripping excess sauce back into the jar.
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5 from 1 vote

Honey Barbecue Sauce

This honey barbecue sauce is easy to make with a handful of pantry ingredients including ketchup, vinegar, molasses, honey, and spices. So long, store-bought sauce.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time35 minutes
Course: Condiments
Cuisine: American
Servings: 24 servings | 3 cups
Calories: 62

Ingredients

  • 1 cup ketchup
  • 1 cup white vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons molasses (NOT blackstrap molasses)
  • 1 cup honey
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
  • 1 teaspoon smoked or hot paprika
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons granulated garlic
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons onion powder
US - Metric

Instructions

  • In a medium saucepan over medium heat, thoroughly whisk all the ingredients together. Bring to a gentle boil, whisking frequently.
  • Reduce the heat to low and simmer, still whisking frequently, until the sauce has thickened slightly and coats the back of a spoon, 15 to 20 minutes. The sauce will thicken even more as it cools.

    ☞ TESTER TIP: The mustard and ketchup may not look like they are blending correctly in the beginning, but don't worry, by the end of the cooking time they'll be fully incorporated.

  • Remove the pan from the heat and let the sauce cool to room temperature.
  • Transfer the sauce to a jar or other sealable container. Refrigerate for at least a couple days and up to 1 month before using.

    ☞ TESTER TIP: As with many things, this honey barbecue sauce becomes more nuanced and complex with time. If you can, make it at least a couple days before you intend to use it.

Nutrition

Serving: 2tablespoons | Calories: 62kcal | Carbohydrates: 16g | Protein: 0.3g | Fat: 0.1g | Saturated Fat: 0.01g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.04g | Sodium: 203mg | Fiber: 0.2g | Sugar: 15g