Easy Apple Butter Barbecue Sauce
This sweet and smoky apple butter BBQ sauce is made from just 10 simple ingredients — no ketchup, no fuss. It’s perfect for grilled chicken, pulled pork, roasted veggies, and more. Ready in 20 minutes and endlessly adaptable, it might just become your new favorite homemade sauce.
Equipment
- 1 Small Saucepan
Ingredients
- 4 ounces Apple Butter (home made is best!)
- 8 ounces Tomato Sauce Plain unsweetened
- 1 tsp Worcestershire Suace
- 1 tsp Apple Cider Vinegar
- 1 tsp Smoked Paprika
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tsp Onion Powder
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a medium saucepan
- Cook over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally
- Simmer for 10-15 minutes, until thickened and fragrant
- Let cool slightly before using. Store any left overs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
Notes
Storage:
Store in an airtight jar or container in the fridge for up to 1 week. You can also freeze it in small portions for longer storage.
Consistency Tip:
If the sauce thickens too much after chilling, stir in a splash of water or tomato sauce before reheating.
Flavor Adjustments:
- Want more heat? Add a bit more chipotle, cayenne, or even a splash of hot sauce.
- Want more tang? Add an extra ½ tsp of vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice.
- Want sweeter? Stir in 1–2 tsp of maple syrup or honey — but it’s usually sweet enough from the apple butter alone!