Bubbas BBQ Sauce
Bubbas BBQ Sauce is a bold, sweet, and spicy sauce made with ketchup, vinegar, molasses, spices, and cola for a rich, smoky flavor. It’s ideal for grilling, dipping, marinating, or adding to sandwiches and sides. The balance of heat and sweetness makes it stand out from typical sauces. Easy to make and store, it’s a homemade favorite that elevates any meal with its deep, tangy character and satisfying kick.
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk or spoon for stirring
- Stove
Ingredients
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup vinegar
- 1 teaspoon celery seed
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 cup water
- 5 drops Louisiana hot sauce
- 1/2 cup regular cola any brand, avoid diet
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, add ketchup, vinegar, molasses, brown sugar, yellow mustard, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, celery seed, Worcestershire sauce, Louisiana hot sauce, water, and cola.
- Whisk all the ingredients together until fully combined. Place the saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a simmer while stirring occasionally. Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently for about 15-20 minutes.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to help the flavours meld. The sauce should thicken slightly. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if needed add more cayenne for heat, or more brown sugar for sweetness. Remove from heat and let cool. Transfer to a clean jar or container.
Notes
Add a drop or two of liquid smoke if you want that campfire flavor. Feel free to swap brown sugar for honey or maple syrup for a different twist.
This sauce keeps well refrigerated and actually tastes better after a day or two when the flavors have fully developed. It’s perfect as a dipping sauce, marinade, or glaze on grilled meats and veggies.