Molasses BBQ Sauce Recipe | Sweet & Smoky

If you’re looking to take your BBQ game to the next level, my Molasses BBQ Sauce Recipe is exactly what you need.

As a food lover, I’ve experimented with countless BBQ sauce variations, and this one is a winner. The molasses adds a rich, smoky sweetness that perfectly balances the tangy vinegar and savory spices.

It’s the ideal sauce for grilled meats, burgers, or even roasted veggies. I love how it thickens as it cooks, creating a glossy coating that caramelizes beautifully on the grill.

Trust me, once you try this sauce, it will quickly become your go-to. Let me show you how easy Molasses BBQ Sauce Recipe is to make this flavor-packed, homemade BBQ sauce!

Why This Molasses BBQ Sauce Is The Only One You’ll Need?

This Molasses BBQ Sauce Recipe is the perfect blend of sweet, smoky, and tangy flavors, making it the only BBQ sauce you’ll need.

The rich depth of molasses adds a unique sweetness that balances beautifully with the smoky paprika, tangy vinegar, and savory Worcestershire sauce.

It’s incredibly versatile, easy to make in just 25 minutes, and customizable to suit your taste. Whether you’re glazing ribs, grilling chicken, or even dipping fries, this sauce elevates every dish.

It’s made with simple, natural ingredients, ensuring fresh, authentic flavor without the additives found in store-bought options.

How To Prepare Molasses BBQ Sauce Recipe?

Recipe Details:

Preparation Time: 5-10 minutes

Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes

Total Time: 10-25 minutes

Course: Sauce/Condiment

Cuisine: American (BBQ)

Calories: Approx. 50-60 calories per 2 tbsp serving

Yield: About 1 1/2 cups (12-16 servings)

Kitchen Utensils

• Medium saucepan
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk (optional for smoothness)

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup unsulfured molasses (best for flavor)
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika (for smokiness)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/4 cup fruit preserves (such as apricot or peach)
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons chili powder (or taco seasoning for extra heat)
• 1/4 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (for a hint of warmth and complexity)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

How to Make Molasses BBQ Sauce

1. Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the molasses, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, preserves, brown sugar, chili powder, pumpkin pie spice, and salt.

2. Cook the Sauce: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir the mixture to combine, ensuring the sugar dissolves and the sauce is smooth.

3. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally and cook for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld together. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed (more salt, sugar, or spice).

4. Cool and Store: Once the sauce has thickened, remove it from the heat and let it cool. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 weeks.

5. Serve: Use this molasses BBQ sauce as a marinade, dipping sauce, or topping for grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or burgers!

Special Notes

❖ Molasses: The type of molasses you use will make a significant difference in the flavor. Unsulfured molasses is the best choice for this recipe. It’s sweeter and milder than its sulfured counterpart.

❖ Adjust the Heat: You can increase the spiciness by adding more cayenne pepper or even some finely chopped jalapeños. If you prefer a milder sauce, leave out the cayenne or reduce the amount.

❖ Thickening: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, if it’s too thick, you can thin it with a little bit of water or more vinegar.

❖ Make Ahead: This sauce only gets better with time, as the flavors continue to develop. I recommend making it a day or two in advance for a more intense flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This Molasses BBQ Sauce Recipe pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Here are a few serving ideas that will have your taste buds dancing:

➤ Grilled Ribs: Brush this sauce on your ribs during the last 10 minutes of grilling for a sweet and smoky finish.

➤ BBQ Chicken: Whether you’re grilling or roasting chicken, this molasses BBQ sauce will create a deliciously sticky glaze.

➤ Pulled Pork Sandwiches: Toss shredded pork in this sauce for an unforgettable BBQ sandwich.

➤ Vegetables: Try drizzling this sauce over grilled veggies like corn on the cob, bell peppers, or portobello mushrooms.

➤ BBQ Burgers: Add a spoonful of this sauce to your burger for a sweet and smoky twist.

Why Put Molasses In Barbecue Sauce?

Molasses is a key ingredient in barbecue sauce because it adds deep, rich sweetness and a slightly smoky flavor that enhances the overall taste.

Its natural, robust flavor balances the tanginess of vinegar and the heat of spices, creating a well-rounded sauce.

Molasses also contributes to the thick, glossy texture of the sauce, making it perfect for coating meats, giving them a beautiful caramelized finish when grilled.

Additionally, it provides a hint of complexity, with its subtle earthy undertones, which sets molasses-based BBQ sauces apart from those that rely solely on sugar or honey.

What To Use In Place Of Molasses In Barbecue Sauce?

If you don’t have molasses on hand or prefer a substitute, there are several options you can use in BBQ sauce.

A good alternative is honey, which offers a similar sweetness and depth, though it’s a bit lighter in flavor. You can also use maple syrup, which adds a mild sweetness with a slight woodsy note.

For a more robust, less sweet option, brown sugar mixed with a bit of water or apple cider vinegar can mimic the texture and richness of molasses.

Lastly, if you’re looking for a darker flavor, dark corn syrup or blackstrap molasses (if you don’t mind a more intense taste) can work well in place of regular molasses.

How To Store Leftovers

To store leftover Molasses BBQ Sauce Recipe, simply transfer it to an airtight container or jar and refrigerate it. It will stay fresh for up to two weeks, and the flavors will continue to meld, making it even better over time.

If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.

Just make sure to let it cool completely before storing, and when you’re ready to use it, thaw it in the fridge overnight or gently reheat it on the stove.

Conclusion

This Molasses BBQ Sauce Recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves bold, smoky, and sweet flavors. It’s incredibly easy to make, requires just a few pantry staples, and can elevate any BBQ dish.

You’re grilling up ribs, chicken, or veggies, this Molasses BBQ Sauce Recipe adds the perfect finishing touch.

The balance of molasses, spices, and a touch of sweetness creates a complex and delicious flavor profile that will have everyone asking for the recipe.

I promise, once you make it, this Molasses BBQ Sauce Recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. Happy grilling, and enjoy the deliciousness that comes with every

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