Whether you’re grilling your favorite hamburgers or slow roasting some pulled pork, you simply can’t survive the summer without slathering everything in sight with some delicious homemade BBQ sauce. This recipe is incredibly versatile and can be paired with any and all BBQ dishes. The tomato base gives this sauce a nice tang and the molasses stirred in creates a thicker consistency perfect for spreading on burgers and sandwiches.

The best part about this recipe? It’s totally guilt-free. Unlike most store-bought BBQ sauces, this homemade version contains no refined sugars or preservatives, and it tastes way better than the pre-bottled stuff.

Sweet 'n Spicy BBQ Sauce

  • Prep Time:5 minutes
  • Cook Time:15 minutes
  • Total Time:20 minutes
  • Servings:4 cups
  • Easy

    Ingredients

  • 1-15 oz can tomato sauce
  • 1-12 oz can tomato paste
  • 1 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1/3 cup honey
  • 1/3 cup molasses
  • 2 tablespoon butter
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 3/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 pinch salt
  • 1 pinch pepper
Photo by Claire Waggoner
  • Step 1

    Combine all ingredients in a pot and stir together. Simmer over medium heat for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly.

    Photo by Claire Waggoner
  • Step 2

    Serve BBQ sauce warm over your favorite foods or use as a marinade for meats before grilling them.

    Photo by Claire Waggoner