Sticky BBQ Sauce Recipe is a thick, flavourful sauce made from ketchup, brown sugar, molasses or honey, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and spices.
I made this sauce to bring rich, sticky flavor to grilled meats and roasted dishes. My past experience in preparing sauces helped me balance sweetness, tang, and spice.
Watching traditional barbecue techniques inspired me to try this recipe. I will now present the step by step process to create this delicious Sticky BBQ Sauce.
Sticky BBQ Sauce Recipe
The main speciality of this Sticky BBQ Sauce Recipe is its perfect balance of sweetness, tanginess, and smoky depth, making it ideal for glazing grilled meats or adding flavor to sandwiches.
The combination of molasses or honey, brown sugar, and ketchup creates a rich, sticky texture that clings beautifully to ribs, chicken, or burgers.
Aromatic spices like paprika, garlic, onion powder, and fennel seeds enhance its complexity, while optional liquid smoke adds a subtle smokiness.
Quick to make, versatile, and intensely flavourful, it elevates any BBQ dish.
How To Prepare Sticky BBQ Sauce Recipe?
Recipe Overview
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Course: Condiment
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: American
Yield: About 2 cups
Main Kitchen Utensils
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk or wooden spoon
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Heatproof spatula
Ingredients
- 240 g ketchup
- 50 g brown sugar
- 160 g molasses or honey
- 30 ml apple cider vinegar
- 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper
- 15 g paprika
- 15 g onion powder
- 15 g garlic powder
- 15 g butter
- 1 tsp mustard powder
- 1/4 tsp liquid smoke
- 15 ml olive oil
- Salt & additional black pepper to taste
- 1 tsp crushed fennel seeds
- 30 ml Worcestershire sauce
- 15 ml soy sauce
How To Make Sticky BBQ Sauce Recipe?
Step 1: Mix The Base Ingredients
In a medium saucepan, combine the ketchup, brown sugar, molasses (or honey), apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, and olive oil. Stir everything together over medium heat until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture starts to bubble gently.
Step 2: Add The Spices
Sprinkle in the paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, mustard powder, crushed fennel seeds, black pepper, cayenne (if you like a little heat), and salt to taste. Mix well. If you want a smoky flavor, add a dash of liquid smoke.
Step 3: Let It Simmer
Turn the heat down to low and let the sauce simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring now and then. It should thicken slightly. For an extra smooth and rich finish, stir in a bit of butter until it melts completely.
Step 4: Taste And Serve
Give the sauce a taste and tweak the seasoning if needed. Take it off the heat and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve it right away with grilled meats or roasted vegetables, or store it in an airtight container in the fridge.
Nutrition Facts Per Serving
| Nutrition | Amounts |
|---|---|
| Calories | 80 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 20 g |
| Sugars | 18 g |
| Fat | 1.5 g |
| Protein | 0.5 g |
| Sodium | 320 mg |
Ways To Use It
1. Brush over grilled ribs or chicken to create a sticky, flavorful glaze.
2. Toss roasted vegetables in the sauce for a sweet and smoky coating.
3. Drizzle over burgers or sandwiches to enhance taste and juiciness.
4. Use as a dipping sauce for nuggets, fries, or finger foods.
5. Stir into baked beans or slow-cooked dishes to add depth and richness.
Secrets To Perfect Sticky BBQ Sauce Recipe
➢ Use molasses or honey to create a rich, glossy texture that sticks to meat.
➢ Balance sweetness and tanginess by carefully measuring brown sugar and apple cider vinegar.
➢ Toast crushed fennel seeds lightly in olive oil to release deeper flavor.
➢ Simmer slowly on low heat to allow spices like paprika, garlic, and onion powder to meld.
➢ Stir in butter at the end to enhance richness and give a smooth, shiny finish.
How To Make Sticky BBQ Sauce Recipe Tastier?
Sticky BBQ Sauce Recipe becomes tastier by carefully balancing sweet, tangy, and savoury elements. Extra brown sugar or molasses enhances richness, while smoked paprika or liquid smoke adds a deeper, smoky flavor.
Fresh garlic, onion powder, and crushed fennel seeds intensify aroma and complexity. Gentle simmering thickens the sauce and allows flavours to blend fully.
Finishing with a little butter or olive oil creates a smooth, glossy texture that clings perfectly to meats and vegetables.
Why You Should Try This Sticky BBQ Sauce Recipe Today?
This Sticky BBQ Sauce Recipe delivers a rich combination of sweet, tangy, and savoury flavours that enhance any dish.
The thick, glossy texture coats meats and vegetables beautifully, creating a satisfying bite every time. The balance of spices, molasses or honey, and tangy vinegar provides depth and richness.
This Sticky BBQ Sauce Recipe brings bold barbecue flavor easily, allowing home cooks to enjoy authentic taste.
The simplicity of the Sticky BBQ Sauce Recipe ensures a rewarding and flavourful experience in every batch.
Proper Storage
Sticky BBQ Sauce Recipe should be stored in an airtight container to maintain freshness and flavor. Keep the sauce in the refrigerator, where it stays good for up to two weeks.
For longer storage, freezing in small portions works well, allowing easy use as needed. Before using, stir the sauce to restore its smooth consistency.
Proper storage preserves the rich, sweet, and tangy taste for future meals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is It Spicy?
The sauce has mild heat, cayenne pepper can be added for extra spice.
Can I Use Honey Instead Of Molasses?
Yes, honey works well and adds natural sweetness.
Can This Sauce Be Used On Vegetables?
Yes, it enhances flavor on roasted or grilled vegetables.
How Do I Make It Thicker?
Simmer the sauce longer on low heat until it reaches the desired consistency.
Conclusion
This Sticky BBQ Sauce Recipe is easy to follow and brings delicious, satisfying results. The combination of sweet, tangy, and savoury flavour creates a rich, sticky sauce.
I hope this Sticky BBQ Sauce Recipe inspires you to try it soon and enjoy the flavourful experience. Once you taste it, you will realise how wonderfully delicious it is, and it will encourage you to share the joy and richness of this sauce with others.
More BBQ Sauce Recipes You’ll Love
Rodney Scott BBQ Sauce Recipe | Tangy & Spicy
Easy Homemade Jalapeno BBQ Sauce Recipe
Delicious Jamie Oliver BBQ Sauce Recipe
Huckleberry BBQ Sauce Recipe | Sweet & Smoky
Sticky BBQ Sauce Recipe
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk or wooden spoon
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Heatproof spatula
Ingredients
- 240 g ketchup
- 50 g brown sugar
- 160 g molasses or honey
- 30 ml apple cider vinegar
- 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper
- 15 g paprika
- 15 g onion powder
- 15 g garlic powder
- 15 g butter
- 1 tsp mustard powder
- 1/4 tsp liquid smoke
- 15 ml olive oil
- Salt & additional black pepper to taste
- 1 tsp crushed fennel seeds
- 30 ml Worcestershire sauce
- 15 ml soy sauce
Instructions
Step 1: Mix The Base Ingredients
- In a medium saucepan, combine the ketchup, brown sugar, molasses (or honey), apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, and olive oil. Stir everything together over medium heat until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture starts to bubble gently.
Step 2: Add The Spices
- Sprinkle in the paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, mustard powder, crushed fennel seeds, black pepper, cayenne (if you like a little heat), and salt to taste. Mix well. If you want a smoky flavor, add a dash of liquid smoke.
Step 3: Let It Simmer
- Turn the heat down to low and let the sauce simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring now and then. It should thicken slightly. For an extra smooth and rich finish, stir in a bit of butter until it melts completely.
Step 4: Taste And Serve
- Give the sauce a taste and tweak the seasoning if needed. Take it off the heat and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve it right away with grilled meats or roasted vegetables, or store it in an airtight container in the fridge.
Notes
Nutrition Facts Per Serving
Calories: 80 kcal | Carbohydrates: 20 g | Sugars: 18 g | Fat: 1.5 g | Protein: 0.5 g | Sodium: 320 mgHi, I’m Samia! I’ve spent the past five years creating recipes that are both delicious and unique. Cooking is my passion, and I love exploring different cuisines, blending flavors, and turning everyday meals into something memorable. From quick weeknight dinners to festive feasts, I aim to make every dish special. I’d love for you to join me on this culinary journey together we’ll explore simple, easy-to-follow recipes and tips that make cooking fun, inspiring, and full of joy!