Guinness BBQ Sauce Recipe is a rich, bold sauce made using stout beer, tomato paste, molasses, and spices. I made this recipe because of my past experience crafting deep flavoured sauces, and I’ve always enjoyed working with Guinness in cooking.
I once watched it being made during a food show, and that inspired me. Now, I’m ready to show up and guide you step by step through making this delicious Guinness BBQ Sauce recipe.
Why We Love This Guinness BBQ Sauce Recipe?
We love this Guinness BBQ Sauce Recipe because it brings a rich, bold flavor that enhances anything it touches.
The stout beer adds depth, while the molasses and maple syrup create a smooth sweetness. Each ingredient blends together to create a smoky, tangy, slightly spicy sauce that’s satisfying and memorable.
It’s easy to prepare and stores well, making it a reliable go to. This sauce adds character to meals and reminds us of slow cooked, homemade goodness.
How To Prepare Guinness BBQ Sauce Recipe?
Recipe Overview
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: About 3 cups
Course: Condiment / Sauce
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: American / Irish Fusion
Main Kitchen Utensils
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk or wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Heatproof jar or bottle (for storage)
Ingredients
- ½ cup Guinness Stout Beer
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste (about 1 cup)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 4 tablespoons brown sugar
- ½ cup molasses
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (or brown mustard)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (or to taste)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- (Optional) Pinch of chili powder or a few dashes of hot sauce for heat
Instructions
1. Start with the Oil
Grab a medium sized saucepan and heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s warm, toss in some garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Stir it around for about 30 seconds just enough to wake up those spices.
2. Pour in the Guinness
Next, slowly pour in the Guinness stout. Let it bubble and simmer for a few minutes 2 or 3 should do it. This helps cook off the alcohol and brings out the flavor.
3. Mix in the Good Stuff
Now it’s time to build the base. Stir in ketchup, tomato paste, molasses, brown sugar, and a splash of maple syrup. Keep stirring until it all comes together into a smooth, rich mixture.
4. Add a Kick of Flavor
Toss in the Dijon mustard, a bit of apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and season it with salt, pepper, cayenne, and a pinch of chili powder or hot sauce if you like it spicy. Give it a good stir to mix everything through.
5. Let it Simmer
Turn the heat down low and let the sauce simmer gently, uncovered, for about 20 minutes. Give it a stir now and then it’ll thicken up nicely as it cooks.
6. Cool It Down & Store
Once it’s done, take it off the heat and let it cool. Give it a taste and adjust anything if needed. Then just pour it into a jar or container, seal it up, and store it in the fridge. It’ll keep for up to two weeks (if it lasts that long!).
Nutrition Facts Per Serving
| Nutrition | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 90 |
| Carbohydrates | 18g |
| Sugar | 14g |
| Fat | 2g |
| Saturated Fat | 0g |
| Protein | 1g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 280mg |
Guinness BBQ Sauce Recipe
This Guinness BBQ Sauce Recipe stands out for its deep, complex flavor created by the richness of Guinness stout beer blended with molasses, tomato paste, and smoky spices.
It brings a bold, slightly sweet and tangy taste that coats grilled meats beautifully. What makes it special is the balance between the beer’s malty depth and the sweetness of brown sugar and maple syrup.
It’s a recipe that reflects tradition, with a twist of personal touch, especially for those who love making sauces from scratch.

Helpful Tips
➢ Use a good quality Guinness Stout to deepen the flavor and give the sauce a rich, malty base.
➢ Simmer the sauce slowly to allow all the ingredients to blend and thicken naturally.
➢ Stir regularly while cooking to prevent the sugars from sticking or burning at the bottom of the pan.
➢ Store in an airtight container in the fridge and let it sit overnight to enhance the flavor.
➢ Adjust spice levels gradually to suit your personal heat preference.
Best Variations
➣ Add a splash of bourbon for a smoky, boozy twist that complements the richness of the Guinness.
➣ Stir in a tablespoon of espresso powder to deepen the sauce’s earthy, bold flavor.
➣ Replace maple syrup with honey for a lighter sweetness and a floral note.
➣ Mix in finely chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a smoky, spicy kick.
➣ Incorporate fresh grated ginger and a dash of soy sauce for a tangy Asian inspired version.
Ways To Use It
Guinness BBQ Sauce Recipe works beautifully brushed over grilled ribs, chicken, or burgers just before they’re done cooking.
Toss it through pulled pork for rich, sticky sandwiches or layer it onto meatloaf for a flavourful glaze. Use it as a dip for crispy fries, onion rings, or chicken tenders.
Stir it into baked beans for added depth or drizzle it on roasted vegetables to elevate their taste. Spoon it over brisket or steak to bring out smoky, bold flavours in every bite.
How To Store The Finished Guinness BBQ Sauce Recipe?
Store the finished Guinness BBQ Sauce Recipe in a clean, airtight glass jar or bottle to maintain freshness. Keep it in the refrigerator, where it stays good for up to two weeks.
Always use a clean spoon each time to avoid contamination. Allow the sauce to cool completely before sealing and storing.
For longer storage, freeze in small portions using ice cube trays or freezer safe containers. Thaw in the fridge before use and stir well to restore consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use A Different Beer Instead Of Guinness?
Yes, but Guinness adds a distinct malty richness. A dark stout or porter will offer a similar depth.
Is This Sauce Alcoholic?
The alcohol mostly cooks off during simmering, leaving behind flavor, not alcohol content.
Can I Make It Spicier?
Absolutely. Add more cayenne pepper, chili powder, or your favourite hot sauce.
Is This Sauce Gluten Free?
Guinness contains gluten. To make it gluten-free, substitute with a certified gluten free stout.
Conclusion
I’m so glad I tried this Guinness BBQ Sauce Recipe it was an easy, delicious success! The rich flavor, with a perfect balance of sweetness, tang, and a hint of heat, made it unforgettable.
I truly enjoyed making it and hope you feel inspired to try it too. It’s simple to prepare and incredibly rewarding.
Make Guinness BBQ Sauce Recipe soon, and let me know just how delicious it turned out for you. I’m sure you’ll love it as much as I did!
More BBQ Sauce Recipes You’ll Love
Diabetic BBQ Sauce Recipe | Sugar Free
Peach Chipotle BBQ Sauce | Sweet And Spicy
KC Masterpiece BBQ Sauce | You’ll Love
Japanese BBQ Sauce Chicken Recipe | Sweet & Savoury

Guinness BBQ Sauce Recipe
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk or wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Heatproof jar or bottle (for storage)
Ingredients
- ½ cup Guinness Stout Beer
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1 6 oz can tomato paste (about 1 cup)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 4 tablespoons brown sugar
- ½ cup molasses
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard or brown mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper or to taste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Optional Pinch of chili powder or a few dashes of hot sauce for heat
Instructions
Start with the Oil
- Grab a medium sized saucepan and heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s warm, toss in some garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Stir it around for about 30 seconds just enough to wake up those spices.
Pour in the Guinness
- Next, slowly pour in the Guinness stout. Let it bubble and simmer for a few minutes 2 or 3 should do it. This helps cook off the alcohol and brings out the flavor.
Mix in the Good Stuff
- Now it’s time to build the base. Stir in ketchup, tomato paste, molasses, brown sugar, and a splash of maple syrup. Keep stirring until it all comes together into a smooth, rich mixture.
Add a Kick of Flavor
- Toss in the Dijon mustard, a bit of apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and season it with salt, pepper, cayenne, and a pinch of chili powder or hot sauce if you like it spicy. Give it a good stir to mix everything through.
Let it Simmer
- Turn the heat down low and let the sauce simmer gently, uncovered, for about 20 minutes. Give it a stir now and then it’ll thicken up nicely as it cooks.
Cool It Down & Store
- Once it’s done, take it off the heat and let it cool. Give it a taste and adjust anything if needed. Then just pour it into a jar or container, seal it up, and store it in the fridge. It’ll keep for up to two weeks (if it lasts that long!).
Notes
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 90 | Carbohydrates: 18g | Sugar: 14g | Fat: 2g | Saturated Fat: 0g | Protein: 1g | Fiber: 1g | Sodium: 280mg
“Hi, I’m Samia, a passionate recipe creator with 5 years of experience in crafting delicious, unique dishes. My love for cooking has led me to explore a variety of cuisines, combining flavors to create memorable meals for every occasion. Whether it’s a simple weeknight dinner or an elaborate feast, I believe in making every dish special. Join me on my culinary journey as I share easy-to-follow recipes and tips that will inspire your cooking and bring joy to your kitchen!”