Maple Bourbon Barbecue Sauce

User Reviews

4.4

150 reviews
Good
  • Prep Time

    5 mins

  • Cook Time

    20 mins

  • Total Time

    25 mins

  • Servings

    3 cups of sauce

  • Calories

    77 kcal

  • Course

    Condiments

  • Cuisine

    American

Maple Bourbon Barbecue Sauce

This Maple Bourbon Barbecue Sauce blends sweet and tangy ingredients with smoky and spicy notes to create a rich, thick sauce suitable for grilling and marinating. It combines tomato sauce and paste with apple cider vinegar, molasses, and maple syrup for sweetness, balanced by spicy brown mustard and Worcestershire sauce. Liquid smoke and paprika add depth, while bourbon enhances complexity. The sauce simmers until thick, perfect for drizzling or basting meats.

Description

The Maple Bourbon Barbecue Sauce recipe starts with tomato sauce and paste providing a thick base. Apple cider vinegar and spicy brown mustard lend acidity and sharpness, which balance the molasses and maple syrup’s sweetness. Worcestershire sauce contributes umami, while liquid smoke and paprika introduce a smoky aroma and flavor. Ground cumin and optional cayenne add warmth and mild heat. The bourbon is added towards the end to preserve its distinct flavor and provide subtle warmth.

After combining and whisking the ingredients, the sauce is brought to a controlled boil and simmered to reduce and thicken, intensifying its flavors. It can be used as a marinade or condiment for meats and grilled dishes. The sauce’s texture is glossy and smooth, able to cling well to food.

This barbecue sauce stores well refrigerated for up to three weeks, allowing flavors to meld further. Omitting the liquid smoke and substituting with smoked paprika offers an alternative smoky profile. Versatile and with a balance of sweet, savory, tangy, and smoky notes, it complements various barbecue styles.

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Ingredients

Servings
  • 2 tomato sauce 8-ounce can
  • 1/4 cup tomato paste
  • ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
  • 3 tablespoons brown mustard spicy
  • 1/4 cup molasses
  • 1/3 cup maple syrup
  • ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce vegan
  • 2 teaspoons liquid smoke see note*
  • 1-½ teaspoons paprika
  • ½ teaspoon cumin ground
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper optional
  • 3 tablespoons bourbon

Instructions

  1. Add all ingredients except for the whiskey to a large saucepan. Whisk to combine and heat over medium. Bring to a full (but controlled) boil. Reduce the heat and allow sauce to simmer, stirring occasionally, for 20 to 30 minutes, until thick.
  2. Add the whiskey and continue cooking another 5 minutes.
  3. Remove saucepan from heat and allow it to cool. The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools. Transfer sauce to a sealable container and refrigerate until ready to use. Sauce will keep for up to 3 weeks.
  4. Use as a meat marinade or for drizzling on all the foods ever.

Notes

  • For a smoky flavor without liquid smoke, replace it and regular paprika with smoked paprika.
  • Store the sauce in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks to enhance flavor and maintain freshness.
  • This sauce works well as both a meat marinade and a drizzle for a variety of foods.

Nutrition Information

Show Details
Serving 1/4 cup Calories 77kcal (4%) Carbohydrates 15g (5%) Protein 1g (2%) Fiber 1g (4%) Sugar 12g (24%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 3cups of sauce

Amount Per Serving

Calories 77 kcal

% Daily Value*

Serving 1/4 cup
Calories 77kcal 4%
Carbohydrates 15g 5%
Protein 1g 2%
Fiber 1g 4%
Sugar 12g 24%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

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Overall Rating

4.4

150 reviews
Good

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