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a spoonful of apple cider bbq sauce in a mason jar
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Apple Cider BBQ Sauce

Try this fall-inspired apple cider BBQ sauce next! It's infused with apple cider and applesauce flavors, and it's perfect to serve with pulled pork, chicken, or your favorite mains! Makes 2 ½ cups.
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time25 minutes
Course: Dressings and Sauces
Cuisine: American
Servings: 12 people
Calories: 71kcal
Author: Tania

Equipment

  • Saucepan

Ingredients

  • cups ketchup
  • 1 cup unfiltered apple cider
  • ½ cup applesauce
  • ¼ cup apple cider vinegar plus more to taste
  • cup brown sugar plus more to taste
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  • In a medium saucepan, add all the ingredients. Stir to combine.
  • Bring to a light boil, then reduce to a low simmer. Simmer for about 20 minutes until thickened, stirring occasionally.
  • Optional: Adjust to taste and simmer for a few more minutes. Sweeter - add more brown sugar. Tangier - add more cider vinegar.
  • Let the BBQ sauce cool slightly. Serve over pulled pork, chicken, or anything you’d like!

Notes

  • Use unfiltered apple cider. The darker the color, the better the quality and stronger the apple flavors.
  • If you can't find apple cider, a good substitute is pure pressed Simply Apple Juice. Don't substitute with the clear-color apple juice.
  • Simmer uncovered to let the extra moisture evaporate for thickening.
  • Adjusting flavor: Sweeten with extra brown sugar, add more vinegar for tang, or boost smokiness with paprika.
  • Make ahead and storage: Make ahead and keep in the fridge for up to 2 week.
  • Freezing: Freeze cooled sauce in a freezer-safe container, leaving room for expansion. Keeps well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop.
Disclaimer: Nutritional values (per serving) are approximates only.

Nutrition

Serving: 3tablespoons | Calories: 71kcal | Carbohydrates: 18g | Protein: 0.5g | Fat: 0.1g | Saturated Fat: 0.02g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.05g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.04g | Sodium: 356mg | Potassium: 144mg | Fiber: 0.4g | Sugar: 15g | Vitamin A: 241IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 15mg | Iron: 0.4mg