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Fireball BBQ Sauce

Fireball BBQ Sauce

Luna
Fireball BBQ Sauce is a sweet, smoky, and spicy condiment made with ketchup, Fireball whiskey, brown sugar, honey, and pepper jelly. It combines tangy apple cider vinegar and Worcestershire sauce with smoked paprika and garlic for depth. Butter adds richness, creating a smooth, flavorful sauce perfect for grilling, dipping, or glazing meats with a warm cinnamon kick.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Sauce, Condiment
Cuisine American (Southern-inspired)
Servings 3 cups
Calories 75 kcal

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Whisk or spoon

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup tomato ketchup
  • 1/2 cup Fireball whiskey
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter softened to room temperature
  • 3 tablespoons pepper jelly
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions
 

  • In a medium saucepan, combine ketchup, Fireball whiskey, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, honey, and Worcestershire sauce. Heat over medium, stirring until the sugar dissolves and everything is well mixed.
  • Add smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Stir to blend. Then toss in the softened butter and whisk gently until it melts completely, creating a smooth, glossy sauce.
  • Stir in the pepper jelly and reduce heat to low. Let the jelly melt into the sauce, adding a sweet and spicy kick.
  • Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking or burning. This step thickens the sauce and lets the flavors develop fully.
  • Remove from heat and let the sauce cool slightly. Transfer it to a clean jar or container. It can be used right away or stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Warm gently before serving if needed.

Notes

Ingredients Note
  • Use good-quality ketchup for the best flavor and consistency.
  • Fireball whiskey provides the signature cinnamon spice—do not substitute with regular whisky if you want the authentic taste.
  • Brown sugar should be packed firmly for accurate sweetness.
  • Unsalted butter should be at room temperature to blend smoothly into the sauce.
  • Pepper jelly adds a unique sweet-spicy balance; you can adjust the amount based on your preferred heat level.
  • Feel free to adjust the spices (paprika, garlic powder, onion powder) to suit your taste.
The Fireball whiskey adds a warm cinnamon kick — if you prefer less heat, reduce the amount slightly or substitute with a milder whisky. For a smoother texture, ensure the butter is fully softened before adding.
Adjust the sweetness or spiciness by adding more brown sugar or pepper jelly according to your taste. This sauce pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, ribs, or as a spicy dip for appetizers.
Keyword Fireball BBQ Sauce