Sweet, smoky, and tangy, this Molasses BBQ Sauce is the perfect blend of bold Southern flavor and rich, sticky goodness.
Made with molasses, brown sugar, mustard, and spices, it brings a deep caramel-like sweetness balanced with a zesty kick.
Whether you’re slathering it on ribs, brushing it over grilled chicken, or using it as a dip, this homemade sauce adds a mouthwatering depth to any dish.
Simple to make and irresistibly flavorful, it’s a must-have for every BBQ lover’s kitchen.
How To Make Molasses BBQ Sauce?
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 15–20 minutes
Course: Sauce
Cuisine: American
Yield: Approximately 2 cups (serves 8–10)
Equipment Needed
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk or wooden spoon
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Heat-resistant spatula
- An airtight jar or bottle for storage
Ingredients
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons molasses
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Mix the Base
Whisk together ketchup, mustard, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, honey, and molasses in a medium saucepan until smooth.
2. Add Flavor Layers
If using, stir in Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cumin, and cayenne pepper.
3. Simmer to Perfection
Place the pan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring often.
4. Season and Thicken
Add salt and black pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for 15–20 minutes until slightly thickened.
5. Cool and Store
Remove from heat and allow to cool. Pour into a jar or bottle and refrigerate. Use within 2 weeks.
Nutrition Facts Of Molasses BBQ Sauce
- Calories: 80
- Sodium: 280 mg
- Sugars: 18 g
- Protein: 1 g
Serving Suggestions
❖ Grilled Meats: Brush over ribs, chicken, or burgers during the last few minutes of grilling.
❖ Sandwiches: Use as a flavorful spread on pulled pork or brisket sandwiches.
❖ Dipping Sauce: Serve as a dip for chicken tenders, fries, or onion rings.
❖ Pizza Base: Replace tomato sauce with BBQ sauce for a smoky BBQ chicken pizza.
❖ Baked Beans: Stir into baked beans for a rich, molasses-kissed flavor.
❖ Veggie Roasts: Drizzle over roasted vegetables like cauliflower or sweet potatoes.
Tips & Variations
◈ Simmer: Cook over low heat to blend flavors smoothly and avoid burning the sugars.
◈ Adjust Spice: Adjust sweetness, tang, or spice to your preference while it simmers.
◈ Storage: Keep in an airtight jar in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
◈ Fruit Twist: Mix in pineapple or mango puree for a tropical note.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is molasses BBQ sauce?
A sweet, tangy, and smoky barbecue sauce made with molasses for a rich, deep flavor.
Can I use blackstrap molasses?
Yes, but it’s more bitter, so adjust the sugar or honey to balance the taste.
How long does it last?
Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, it lasts up to 2–3 weeks.
Can I freeze it?
Yes, freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
Can I make it without ketchup?
You can substitute tomato paste plus extra vinegar and sugar, but the flavor will vary.
Is it gluten-free?
It can be, if using gluten-free Worcestershire sauce and other certified ingredients.
Can I make it vegan?
Yes, replace honey and Worcestershire with vegan alternatives.
Can I use it as a marinade?
Sure—it works great as both a marinade and finishing sauce.
Conclusion
Molasses BBQ Sauce delivers a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors that elevate any dish.
Whether brushed on grilled meats or used as a dip, this homemade sauce adds irresistible depth. Once you try it, you’ll never go back to store-bought.
Molasses BBQ Sauce
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk or wooden spoon
- Measuring cups/spoons
- Heat-resistant spatula
- An airtight jar or bottle for storage
Ingredients
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons molasses
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional, for extra heat
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Whisk together ketchup, mustard, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, honey, and molasses in a medium saucepan until smooth.
- If using, stir in Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cumin, and cayenne pepper.
- Place the pan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring often.
- Add salt and black pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for 15–20 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Remove from heat and allow to cool. Pour into a jar or bottle and refrigerate. Use within 2 weeks.
Welcome to Arora’s Sauce Recipe, where every drop tells a story of tradition, innovation, and a boundless love for culinary arts. My name is Brazen, and I am the founder and chief sauce creator at Arora’s Kitchen. Born into a family with a rich heritage of culinary arts, I grew up surrounded by the aromas of spices and the sounds of simmering pots, which ignited my passion for cooking from a young age.
Inspired by generations of culinary expertise, I embarked on a professional quest to capture these fleeting aromas and flavors in bottles of sauce that could bring a gourmet experience to every meal.
As the founder of Arora’s Sauce Recipe, my mission is to inspire your culinary adventures with the finest sauces. Whether you’re a professional chef or a home cook, our sauces are crafted to elevate your cooking with every spoonful.
Thank you for choosing Arora’s Sauce Recipe. Here’s to a journey filled with flavor, passion, and unforgettable meals.