Apple Butter BBQ Sauce
Apple Butter BBQ Sauce blends sweet and smoky flavors for a rich, tangy condiment. Made with apple butter, brown sugar, vinegar, and spices, it complements grilled meats, especially pork and chicken. This sauce offers a unique twist on traditional barbecue, delivering depth and warmth with a subtle apple undertone that enhances both savory and sweet dishes.
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Stirring spoon
- Storage jar or airtight container
Ingredients
- 1¼ cups apple butter homemade or store-bought
- ½ cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons brandy or bourbon optional, for depth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion finely diced
- 1 garlic clove minced
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 cup ketchup
- ¼ cup packed brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon liquid smoke optional, for smoky flavor
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and unsalted butter. Saute for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in the apple cider vinegar and brandy or bourbon (if using). Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to cook off some of the alcohol.
- Stir in the apple butter, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, salt, black pepper, and liquid smoke (if using).
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook uncovered for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened and well blended
- For an ultra-smooth texture, blend the sauce using an immersion blender or transfer it to a standard blender (let cool slightly first).