Homemade Sweet and Tangy BBQ Sauce

Name: Homemade Sweet and Tangy BBQ Sauce
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 12
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups ketchup; 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 2 tablespoons molasses; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

A simple and delicious homemade sauce that beats any store bought version.

By Recipes By Nani· 🌍 American· August 5, 2026

recipesbynani.com

Prep

5 minutes

Cook

15 minutes

Total

20 minutes

Serves

There is something so special about making your own barbecue sauce right in your kitchen. It is incredibly easy to stir together, and you can adjust the flavors to be as sweet or spicy as you like.

My family loves this on grilled chicken and ribs during the summer months. If you like a little extra heat, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce before simmering.

🧺 Ingredients

2 cups ketchup
1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons molasses
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

👩‍🍳Instructions

1
Combine all the ingredients in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2
Whisk everything together until the sugar is dissolved and the sauce is smooth.
3
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then turn the heat down to low.
4
Let the sauce cook for about 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
5
Remove from the heat and let the sauce cool completely before using or storing.

💡 Tips

Store your extra sauce in a clean glass jar in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. It tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld together.

#sauce #bbq #homemade #vegetarian #easy

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