Maple Bourbon BBQ Sauce is a sweet, smoky, and tangy sauce made by combining maple syrup, bourbon, ketchup, and other flavorful ingredients. It adds depth and richness to grilled meats and vegetables, enhancing their flavor with a hint of sweetness and a touch of sophistication.
In a medium saucepan, combine the ketchup, maple syrup, bourbon, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard.
Stir in the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper to the saucepan.
Sprinkle in salt and black pepper, adjusting the seasoning to suit your preference.
Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly and the flavors meld together.
After simmering, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can add more maple syrup for sweetness or more cayenne pepper for heat.
Once the sauce reaches your desired consistency and flavor, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly. Transfer it to glass jars or airtight containers for storage.
Notes
Keep in mind that honey is sweeter than molasses, so you may need to adjust the quantity to taste.