I’m on a bit of an apple kick this late May. After sharing my recipe for Cider Glazed Ribs, I wanted to publish this Apple Butter Barbecue Sauce to pair with them. I also have a slaw with apples coming up — my Tangy Apple Cabbage Slaw.
Tangy Apple Cabbage Slaw
Maybe these posts would be more seasonally suited to fall, but none of these recipes — the sauce, the ribs, or the slaw — are overwhelmingly apple-forward. They each carry just a hint of apple, which ties them together nicely. I think these dishes would be fantastic for Memorial Day weekend or any summer gathering. I’m definitely ready for summer — how about you?
About Apple Butter Barbecue Sauce:
This sauce combines familiar barbecue flavors with the deep richness of apple butter and a touch of bourbon for a warm backnote. A little liquid smoke adds a subtle smoky character. If you haven’t used liquid smoke before, it’s simply the distilled essence of smoke and is used sparingly to enhance that grilled flavor.
The sauce pairs especially well with pork — pulled pork, ribs, or even a burger topped with onion rings. It’s reminiscent of a bolder Sweet Baby Ray’s: approachable, slightly sweet, and only faintly apple-forward. Because of the fruit content and apple butter, it may not keep as long as some store-bought sauces, but it should be fine refrigerated for two to three weeks.
Apple Butter Barbecue Sauce
Making Apple Butter Barbecue Sauce:
This is an easy sauce to prepare. Start by sautéing the onion in butter, add the garlic, then add the remaining ingredients. Bring the mixture to a boil, reduce to a simmer, and cook, stirring occasionally, until it becomes glossy and thick. Remember that it will thicken more as it cools.
Use a larger pan than you think you need. As the sauce reduces it can sputter, and a wide surface area helps the liquid reduce faster. You can serve the sauce chunky, blended, or strained. I prefer it with a little texture, so I dice the onions finely and leave some body in the sauce.
Apple Butter Barbecue Sauce
Saving Money on Apple Butter Barbecue Sauce:
Making this sauce can save money if you already have a jar of apple butter on hand — perhaps one that was gifted or homemade. If you buy apple butter specifically for the recipe, the cost rises, but the flavor is worth the small extra expense.
Barbecue sauces often call for several pantry condiments, so I watch seasonal sales on ketchup, vinegar, and other staples. Summer holiday sales usually offer the best prices, though you might also find deals around other major events.
Apple Butter Barbecue Sauce
Apple Butter Barbecue Sauce
This Apple Butter Barbecue Sauce with a touch of bourbon might become your new signature sauce. Try it on burgers, ribs, or pulled pork.
- Author: mollie
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2 cups
- Category: Condiments
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 1 clove garlic, smashed and minced
- 1/4 to 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1 jar (8 to 10 ounces) apple butter
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 tablespoons brandy or bourbon (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon liquid smoke (optional)
Instructions
In a large, heavy saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté, stirring occasionally, until translucent, about 6 to 8 minutes. Add the garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.
Add the remaining ingredients and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency, about 10 to 15 minutes.
Transfer to a jar and store in the refrigerator. The sauce keeps for two to three weeks.
Notes
Use a larger pan than you think necessary; the sauce can sputter as it reduces, and a wider surface speeds reduction.
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I shared this Apple Butter Barbecue Sauce for a foodie link-up and enjoyed collaborating with fellow bloggers.