Apple Cinnamon BBQ Sauce
Apple Cinnamon BBQ Sauce blends sweet apple flavors with warm cinnamon spices, creating a unique and rich taste. It combines tangy barbecue sauce elements with fruity and aromatic notes, perfect for enhancing grilled meats, poultry, or dipping. This sauce offers a delicious twist on classic BBQ with a cozy, flavorful profile.
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Chef’s knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Blender or immersion blender (optional, for a smoother texture)
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsweetened apple juice or apple cider
- ½ cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 6 tbsp lemon juice freshly squeezed recommended
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp brown sugar packed
- 1 tbsp honey or pure maple syrup
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp chili powder adjust to taste for heat
- ½ tsp kosher salt or to taste
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Optional: ½ cup finely diced Granny Smith apple for extra texture
- Additional salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Saute Aromatics
- In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent (about 4–5 minutes). Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
Deglaze & Simmer
- Add the apple juice (or cider), apple cider vinegar, and lemon juice to the pan. Stir in the tomato paste, ketchup, brown sugar, honey (or maple syrup), and optional diced apples. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Add Seasonings
- Stir in smoked paprika, ground cinnamon, chili powder, salt, black pepper, and optional extra salt and pepper. Simmer the mixture uncovered for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and the apples (if added) soften.
Finish the Sauce
- Stir in the unsalted butter and allow it to melt completely. If you prefer a smoother sauce, use a blender or immersion blender to puree the mixture until smooth.
Taste and Adjust
- Taste the sauce and adjust salt, sweetness, or heat as desired. If it’s too thick, thin with a splash of water or apple juice.
Cool & Store
- Let the sauce cool slightly before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or freeze for longer storage.