Apples and Cinnamon Barbecue Sauce
Sweet, tangy, and irresistibly spiced, this Apples and Cinnamon Barbecue Sauce is a creative twist on classic BBQ flavors that will elevate your grilling game. Featuring the natural sweetness of unsweetened applesauce, a kick of apple cider vinegar, and the comforting warmth of ground cinnamon, this sauce strikes the perfect balance between sweet and savory. Smoked paprika and a touch of Worcestershire sauce add depth, while optional red pepper flakes bring a hint of heat for those who crave spice. Ready in just 35 minutes, this easy homemade barbecue sauce is perfect as a glaze, marinade, or dipping sauce for grilled chicken, pork, or even roasted veggies. With its unique blend of fall-inspired flavors, this recipe is a must-try for barbecue enthusiasts looking to experiment with bold, fruity twists.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 0.5 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 cup ketchup
- 0.75 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Instructions
In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the unsweetened applesauce, apple cider vinegar, ketchup, brown sugar, honey, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well to combine the wet ingredients.
Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.
Add the ground cinnamon, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, ground black pepper, salt, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to incorporate the spices evenly.
Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and the flavors meld together.
Taste the sauce and adjust the sweetness, acidity, or spice level to your liking by adding more brown sugar, vinegar, or spices if desired.
Once the sauce reaches your preferred consistency, remove it from the heat and allow it to cool for about 5 minutes.
Transfer the barbecue sauce to an airtight container or jar. Allow it to cool completely before sealing and storing in the refrigerator.
The sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Use it as a glaze, marinade, or dipping sauce for your favorite grilled or roasted meats.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
528 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 0.7 g | 1% | |
| Saturated Fat | 0.1 g | 0% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 2603 mg | 113% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 134.3 g | 49% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 5.9 g | 21% | |
| Total Sugars | 103.7 g | ||
| Protein | 1.9 g | 4% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 105 mg | 8% | |
| Iron | 3.9 mg | 22% | |
| Potassium | 675 mg | 14% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
