Molasses BBQ Sauce Recipe blends sweet molasses, vinegar, ketchup, and spices into a rich, smoky, and flavourful grilling sauce.
I made this Molasses BBQ Sauce Recipe because I’ve had years of experience crafting homemade sauces, and this one always stood out.
I remember watching an old Southern cooking show where a similar Sauce was made, and it inspired me to recreate and perfect my own version.
The standout feature of this Molasses BBQ Sauce Recipe is its bold sweetness balanced by tangy and smoky layers. Now, I’ll guide you step by step.
Why This Molasses BBQ Sauce Recipe Is The Only One You’ll Need?
This Molasses BBQ Sauce Recipe brings a bold, unforgettable taste that elevates any dish. The deep sweetness of molasses, combined with vinegar and smoky undertones, creates a rich and balanced flavour.
It sticks beautifully to grilled meats and adds depth to every bite. Easy to prepare and made from simple ingredients, it delivers consistent results every time.
Once you try it, no other sauce feels quite the same. This Molasses BBQ Sauce Recipe becomes the trusted favourite in your kitchen.
How To Prepare Molasses BBQ Sauce Recipe?
Recipe Overview
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Course: Sauce / Condiment
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: American (Southern-style BBQ)
Yield: 3 cups of BBQ sauce
Equipment Needed
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons & cups
- Storage jar or container (for refrigerating leftovers)
Ingredients
- 1 cup molasses
- 4 tablespoons classic BBQ dry rub
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1 cup finely diced sweet onion
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 cup red wine vinegar
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon liquid smoke
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
How To Make Molasses BBQ Sauce Recipe?
Step 1: Start With The Aromatics:
Grab a medium sized saucepan and set it over medium heat. Pour in a bit of olive oil just enough to coat the bottom. Once it’s warm, toss in the diced onion. Let it cook for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring now and then, until it softens and turns translucent.
Step 2: Add The Garlic:
Now, stir in the minced garlic. Let that cook for another minute or two. You’re just looking for it to become fragrant don’t let it brown.
Step 3: Deglaze And Build The Base:
Splash in the red wine vinegar to loosen up anything stuck to the bottom of the pan. Scrape up all those flavourful bits. Stir in the Dijon mustard, plus a pinch of salt and pepper. Let it bubble gently for a couple of minutes.
Step 4: Add The Rest:
Turn the heat down low. Stir in the molasses, ketchup, BBQ rub, liquid smoke, and Worcestershire sauce. Give everything a good mix so it’s fully blended.
Step 5: Let It Simmer:
Keep the sauce on low heat and let it gently simmer for about 15 minutes. Stir once in a while so it doesn’t stick to the bottom. The sauce will thicken a bit and the flavours will really come together.
Step 6: Optional Step Blend It:
If you want a smoother sauce, you can use an immersion blender right in the pot. Or let it cool a bit and blend it in a regular blender.
Step 7: Taste Test:
Give it a taste and tweak as needed maybe a little more vinegar if you like it tangy, more molasses for extra sweetness, or a bit more BBQ rub if you want to crank up the flavour.
Step 8: Cool And Store:
Once it’s done, let the sauce cool down completely. Then pour it into a clean jar or airtight container. Store it in the fridge it should keep well for up to two weeks.
Note
If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can blend it after cooking or strain out any spice bits. Also, remember that the flavour improves after resting overnight, so making it a day ahead is ideal.
Nutrition Facts Of Molasses BBQ Sauce Recipe
| Nutrition | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 50 |
| Fat | 0g |
| Sodium | 200mg |
| Carbohydrates | 13g |
| Sugars | 10g |
| Protein | 0g |
Healthy Nutrition Benefits
➤ Garlic and onions contain antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation and support immune function.
➤ Molasses provides a natural source of iron, which supports healthy blood and energy levels.
➤ Homemade sauce contains less processed sugar than store-bought versions, lowering the risk of blood sugar spikes.
➤ Red wine vinegar may aid digestion and help regulate blood sugar due to its acetic acid content.
➤ Using quality spices and herbs offers added minerals and plant compounds that support overall wellness.
Helpful Tips For Molasses BBQ Sauce Recipe
➢ Use unsulfured molasses for a cleaner, more natural sweetness that won’t overpower the other ingredients.
➢ Let the sauce simmer slowly, rushing this step can leave the flavors tasting separate instead of well-blended.
➢ Stir occasionally while it simmers to prevent burning or sticking, especially near the bottom of the pan.
➢ For a thicker texture, let it simmer a few extra minutes or skip blending entirely to keep it rustic.
➢ Always taste before storing, adding a touch more vinegar, spice, or sweetness while it’s still warm helps fine-tune the final flavor.
Best Amazing Serving Ideas
1. Brush over grilled chicken or ribs during the final minutes of cooking for a rich, caramelized finish.
2. Drizzle onto roasted vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots, or cauliflower for a smoky-sweet glaze.
3. Use as a dipping sauce for baked potato wedges, chicken tenders, or grilled tofu.
4. Spread on sandwiches or burgers to add bold, tangy flavor in place of traditional condiments.
5. Stir into shredded pork or jackfruit for easy, flavorful BBQ sliders or tacos.
Proper Storage
After cooking, allow the Molasses BBQ Sauce Recipe to cool completely before transferring it into a clean, airtight container or jar.
Store the Molasses BBQ Sauce Recipe in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage. Properly stored, it will keep well for up to two weeks.
Always use a clean spoon when serving to avoid contamination. If the Molasses BBQ Sauce Recipe thickens too much in the fridge, gently warm it before use to bring it back to the desired consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is This Sauce Spicy?
The level of spice depends on the amount of BBQ rub used, adjust according to taste.
Can I Use A Different Type Of Vinegar?
Red wine vinegar works best, but apple cider vinegar is a good substitute.
Does The Sauce Need To Be Blended?
Blending is optional, it just helps create a smoother texture.
Can I Use This Sauce For Grilling Vegetables?
Absolutely, it adds a rich, smoky flavour to grilled or roasted veggies.
Conclusion
Molasses BBQ Sauce Recipe was an easy and delicious success that I truly enjoyed making. I hope it inspires you to try it too.
It’s simple to prepare and brings bold, sweet, and smoky flavor to anything you grill or dip. Now it’s your turn make it soon and let me know how tasty it turned out for you.
I’m sure you’ll enjoy every spoonful just like I did.
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Molasses BBQ Sauce Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Grab a medium sized saucepan and set it over medium heat. Pour in a bit of olive oil just enough to coat the bottom. Once it’s warm, toss in the diced onion. Let it cook for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring now and then, until it softens and turns translucent.
- Now, stir in the minced garlic. Let that cook for another minute or two. You’re just looking for it to become fragrant don’t let it brown.
- Splash in the red wine vinegar to loosen up anything stuck to the bottom of the pan. Scrape up all those flavourful bits. Stir in the Dijon mustard, plus a pinch of salt and pepper. Let it bubble gently for a couple of minutes.
- Turn the heat down low. Stir in the molasses, ketchup, BBQ rub, liquid smoke, and Worcestershire sauce. Give everything a good mix so it’s fully blended.
- Keep the sauce on low heat and let it gently simmer for about 15 minutes. Stir once in a while so it doesn’t stick to the bottom. The sauce will thicken a bit and the flavours will really come together.
- If you want a smoother sauce, you can use an immersion blender right in the pot. Or let it cool a bit and blend it in a regular blender.
- Give it a taste and tweak as needed maybe a little more vinegar if you like it tangy, more molasses for extra sweetness, or a bit more BBQ rub if you want to crank up the flavour.
- Once it’s done, let the sauce cool down completely. Then pour it into a clean jar or airtight container. Store it in the fridge it should keep well for up to two weeks.
Notes
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 50 | Fat: 0g | Sodium: 200mg | Carbohydrates: 13g | Sugars: 10g | Protein: 0g“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!”