Sweet & Smoky Vanilla Bourbon BBQ Sauce
Elevate your grilling experience with this unique Sweet & Smoky Vanilla Bourbon BBQ Sauce. This saucy delight blends the rich, deep flavors of bourbon with the sweetness of molasses and brown sugar, balanced by a hint of aromatic vanilla. Perfect for slathering on everything from ribs to grilled vegetables, this sauce brings a deliciously complex flavor profile. Simmered slowly for maximum depth, it's an unforgettable companion to your favorite barbecue dishes. Try it on Beer Can Chicken for a truly memorable meal!
N/A
Servings
87.5
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
Bourbon
1 cup (cheap or any preferred brand, cooked to reduce alcohol)
Tomato Sauce
28 ounces (canned)
Molasses
1/2 cup (none)
Brown Sugar
3/4 cup (packed)
Granulated Garlic
1 teaspoon (none)
Onion Salt
1 teaspoon (can substitute with granulated onion and adjust salt)
Apple Cider Vinegar
1/4 cup (none)
Turmeric
1 teaspoon (none)
Liquid Smoke
1 teaspoon (none)
Sea Salt
1/2 teaspoon (none)
Dry Mustard
1/2 teaspoon (none)
Vanilla Extract
1 1/2 teaspoons (none)
Instructions
1
In a medium saucepan, pour in the bourbon and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Allow the bourbon to cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until most of the alcohol has evaporated, leaving behind the rich flavor.
2
Once the bourbon has reduced, carefully add the tomato sauce, molasses, and packed brown sugar to the pan. Stir the mixture well, ensuring the brown sugar is fully dissolved.
3
Next, add the granulated garlic, onion salt, apple cider vinegar, turmeric, liquid smoke, sea salt, dry mustard, and vanilla extract. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
4
Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for approximately 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully and thicken the sauce.
5
After simmering, remove from heat and let cool slightly before using. Store any leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Nutrition Information
0g
Fat
21.375g
Carbs
0.75g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the flavor profile of the Sweet & Smoky Vanilla Bourbon BBQ Sauce?
It is a unique blend of deep bourbon flavors, sweet molasses, and brown sugar, balanced with aromatic vanilla.
How much bourbon is required for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1 cup of bourbon.
Does the alcohol remain in the BBQ sauce?
Most of the alcohol is evaporated by simmering the bourbon for 5-7 minutes at the start of the cooking process.
What is the base of this sauce?
The base of this BBQ sauce is 28 ounces of canned tomato sauce.
What provides the sweetness in this BBQ sauce?
A combination of 1/2 cup molasses and 3/4 cup packed brown sugar provides the sweetness.
How much vanilla extract should I use?
You should use 1 1/2 teaspoons of vanilla extract.
What gives the sauce its smoky flavor?
One teaspoon of liquid smoke is added to provide the distinct smoky profile.
Is there a substitute for onion salt in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute onion salt with granulated onion and then adjust the salt levels to your preference.
What type of vinegar is used for acidity?
The recipe uses 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar.
How long should the sauce simmer to thicken?
After mixing the ingredients, the sauce should simmer on low heat for approximately 20 minutes.
How should I store the leftover sauce?
Store the sauce in a sealed container in the refrigerator.
How long will the sauce last in the refrigerator?
It can be stored safely in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Is this sauce suitable for Beer Can Chicken?
Yes, the recipe specifically recommends trying it on Beer Can Chicken for a truly memorable meal.
What other foods go well with this sauce?
It is perfect for slathering on ribs, grilled vegetables, and any of your favorite barbecue dishes.
How many calories are in a serving of this sauce?
There are approximately 87.5 calories per serving.
What is the fat content of this BBQ sauce?
This sauce contains 0 grams of fat.
What is the carbohydrate count per serving?
There are 21.375 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
How much protein is in the sauce?
Each serving contains 0.75 grams of protein.
What type of garlic is used in the recipe?
The recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of granulated garlic.
Does the sauce contain turmeric?
Yes, it includes 1 teaspoon of turmeric for added depth and flavor.
Is sea salt used in this recipe?
Yes, the recipe includes 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt.
What type of mustard is needed for the sauce?
The recipe requires 1/2 teaspoon of dry mustard.
How many total ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 12 ingredients in the Sweet & Smoky Vanilla Bourbon BBQ Sauce.
Can I use any brand of bourbon?
Yes, you can use a cheap brand or any preferred brand of bourbon.
When should I add the spices and vinegar to the pot?
Add the spices, vinegar, and vanilla after the bourbon has reduced and the tomato sauce, molasses, and sugar have been mixed in.
Why is the sauce simmered for 20 minutes?
Simmering allows the flavors to meld beautifully and helps the sauce thicken to the right consistency.
Should I use packed or loose brown sugar?
You should use 3/4 cup of packed brown sugar.
Is there any fiber in the sauce?
Fiber information is not provided, though it is likely minimal based on the ingredients.
Do I need to use fresh or canned tomato sauce?
The recipe specifies using 28 ounces of canned tomato sauce.
What is the final step before using the sauce?
After simmering, remove the sauce from the heat and let it cool slightly before using.