Hickory BBQ Sauce Recipe is a rich, smoky, and tangy sauce that adds a unique depth of flavor to your grilled meats.
This homemade sauce combines the distinct smoky flavor of hickory wood with the sweetness of brown sugar, the tanginess of vinegar, and the warmth of spices.
Perfect for slathering on ribs, chicken, or burgers, it elevates the taste of any barbecue dish. The first time I made this Hickory BBQ Sauce Recipe, I was impressed with its balance of sweet and savory flavors, which my family absolutely loved.
This second time I made it, I adjusted the Hickory BBQ Sauce Recipe slightly to enhance the smokiness. Whether you’re a BBQ pro or just starting, this sauce is sure to become a family favorite!
In this blog post, I’m excited to share my personal recipe for homemade Hickory BBQ Sauce Recipe. It’s smoky, tangy, and just the right balance of sweetness and spice.
Ready to impress your taste buds? Let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love This Hickory BBQ Sauce Recipe
✔ Rich Smoky Flavor: The hickory smoke gives this BBQ sauce its signature deep and robust flavor, ideal for anyone who loves a smoky profile.
✔ Perfectly Balanced: Sweet, tangy, and savory – this sauce combines all the flavors that make BBQ truly irresistible.
✔ Versatile: Use it as a marinade, glaze, dipping sauce, or a topping on your favorite BBQ dishes.
✔ Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a batch of this sauce in no time.
How To Prepare Hickory BBQ Sauce Recipe?
Recipe Details
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Course: Sauce / Condiment
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: American (BBQ)
Calories: Approx. 70 calories per 2 tbsp (depending on sugar content and type of ketchup used)
Yield: About 1 1/2 cups (12 servings)
Kitchen Utensils
- Small saucepan
- Whisk or spoon for stirring
- Measuring cups and spoons
- A jar or bottle for storing the sauce
Ingredients
- 1 cup of ketchup
- 1/4 cup of cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup of brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon of Liquid Hickory Smoke
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of mustard powder
- 1 tablespoon of chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon of molasses
- 1 teaspoon of liquid smoke (optional, but highly recommended)
Instructions
1. Combine Ingredients:
In a small saucepan, combine the ketchup, cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, Liquid Hickory Smoke, garlic powder, mustard powder, chili sauce, and molasses. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
2. Cook the Sauce:
Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir the mixture regularly to ensure it doesn’t burn. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 10-15 minutes, letting it thicken slightly and blend the flavors together.
3. Adjust the Flavor:
Taste the sauce and, if needed, adjust by adding more brown sugar for sweetness, more vinegar for tanginess, or a little more liquid smoke for a stronger hickory flavor.
4. Cool and Store:
Once the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency, remove it from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes. Transfer the BBQ sauce into a clean jar or bottle for storage.
5. Serve:
Use this hickory BBQ sauce immediately or refrigerate it for up to 2 weeks. It’s great for glazing meats, dipping fries, or as a topping for burgers and grilled vegetables.
Special Note
Hickory smoked salt is a key ingredient for this recipe as it imparts a rich, woodsy flavor to the sauce. However, if you can’t find it, you can substitute with regular salt and add a little extra smoked paprika or liquid smoke to achieve that signature hickory flavor.
If you like your BBQ sauce to have a little more kick, I highly recommend adjusting the cayenne pepper to your taste.
A teaspoon will give it a good heat, but feel free to experiment with more or less depending on your preference.
Expert Tips
➤ Start with a small amount of liquid smoke, as it’s potent. You can always add more to intensify the smoky flavor without overwhelming the sauce.
➤ If you prefer a more balanced flavor, try using a mix of brown sugar and maple syrup for a deeper sweetness with a hint of earthiness.
➤ Simmer the sauce on low heat for a longer period to allow the flavors to meld together. This creates a richer, more complex taste.
➤ Fresh garlic and onion powder can add an extra punch of flavor. If you’re looking for a more vibrant taste, finely chop some fresh onions and garlic and sauté them before adding to the sauce.
➤ For the best shelf life and to preserve the flavor, store your homemade BBQ sauce in a glass jar or bottle. It keeps the sauce fresher longer and maintains its rich taste.
How To Use Your Hickory BBQ Sauce
To use your Hickory BBQ Sauce Recipe, simply brush it onto your meat during the last few minutes of grilling or cooking to create a flavorful glaze.
For ribs, chicken, or burgers, apply a generous coat of sauce and let it caramelize over the heat. You can also serve it as a dipping sauce on the side for extra flavor.
For slow-cooked meats like pulled pork, mix the sauce in after cooking for an added smoky kick. The rich, smoky flavor pairs wonderfully with a variety of grilled foods, making it a versatile condiment for any BBQ feast!
How to Store Leftovers
To store your homemade Hickory BBQ Sauce Recipe, transfer it to an airtight glass container or jar once it has cooled down. Keep it refrigerated for up to 2 weeks. The cool storage helps preserve its freshness and flavor.
For longer storage, you can freeze the sauce in small portions using ice cube trays, then transfer the frozen cubes to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Simply thaw in the fridge or warm it up on the stove before using.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use hickory chips instead of liquid smoke?
Yes, you can! If you have a smoker or a grill with hickory chips, you can infuse the sauce with natural smoke. Just simmer the sauce while the chips are smoking nearby, and the sauce will absorb the smoky flavor.
How do I make my BBQ sauce spicier?
To add heat, you can include cayenne pepper, chili powder, or red pepper flakes. Start with a small amount and taste as you go to achieve your desired spice level.
Can I make this BBQ sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, the flavors will deepen and improve over time. You can make it a day or two ahead of your BBQ event and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to use it.
Is it possible to make a sugar-free version of this sauce?
Yes, you can substitute the brown sugar with a sugar-free sweetener like Stevia, Monk Fruit, or erythritol. Keep in mind that this may slightly change the flavor profile.
Can I use this BBQ sauce on other dishes?
Definitely! This hickory BBQ sauce works great as a glaze for grilled meats, but it’s also fantastic as a dip for fries, onion rings, or even roasted vegetables.
Conclusion
Hickory BBQ Sauce Recipe is a fantastic addition to any barbecue, offering a perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors that elevate your dishes.
This Hickory BBQ Sauce Recipe will enhance the taste of your meats and leave everyone asking for more. After making it twice, I can confidently say that it’s a recipe that gets better with each batch.
It’s easy to customize to your taste, and no matter how you tweak it, the rich, smoky profile will always shine through. It’s a must-try for any BBQ enthusiast!
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Hickory BBQ Sauce Recipe
Equipment
- Small saucepan
- Whisk or spoon for stirring
- Measuring cups and spoons
- A jar or bottle for storing the sauce
Ingredients
- 1 cup of ketchup
- 1/4 cup of cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup of brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon of Liquid Hickory Smoke
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of mustard powder
- 1 tablespoon of chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon of molasses
- 1 teaspoon of liquid smoke optional, but highly recommended
Instructions
Combine Ingredients:
- In a small saucepan, combine the ketchup, cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, Liquid Hickory Smoke, garlic powder, mustard powder, chili sauce, and molasses. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Cook the Sauce:
- Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir the mixture regularly to ensure it doesn’t burn. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 10-15 minutes, letting it thicken slightly and blend the flavors together.
Adjust the Flavor:
- Taste the sauce and, if needed, adjust by adding more brown sugar for sweetness, more vinegar for tanginess, or a little more liquid smoke for a stronger hickory flavor.
Cool and Store:
- Once the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency, remove it from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes. Transfer the BBQ sauce into a clean jar or bottle for storage.
Serve:
- Use this hickory BBQ sauce immediately or refrigerate it for up to 2 weeks. It’s great for glazing meats, dipping fries, or as a topping for burgers and grilled vegetables.