Whiskey-Maple Barbecue Sauce

This sweet and smoky barbecue sauce recipe blends the richness of whiskey and pure maple syrup. Slather it on BBQ ribs and chicken for a taste explosion! Easy, homemade, and delicious!

5 from 5 votes

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Course: Sauces

Cuisine: American BBQ

Keyword: barbecue sauce, BBQ sauce

Prep Time: 12

Cook Time: 9

Total Time: 21

Servings: servings

Calories: 161kcal

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups ketchup
1/2 cup orange marmalade
1/3 cup bourbon or Irish whiskey
1/4 cup pure maple syrup
2 tablespoons cider vinegar (to suit your tastes)
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon granulated onion
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt
a few pinches cayenne pepper
1 tablespoon unsalted butter

Instructions

Simmer all of the sauce ingredients, except butter, over medium high heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring often. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes.
Remove barbecue sauce from heat, and stir in the butter. Cool for 10-15 minutes before using.

Notes

Make ahead: You can make this whiskey maple barbecue sauce ahead of time and store it in an air-tight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week after preparation. I recommend making it the day before, as the flavors will balance out. Reheat to room temperature before using.
Smokiness: Add extra smoky flavor by stirring in 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika OR a few drops of liquid smoke.

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