Blazin’ Apple Whiskey BBQ Sauce

This complex blend of whiskey, apple jelly, jalapeno, molasses, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar is what I call Blazin’ Apple Whiskey BBQ Sauce. Read this blog to see how this unique combination adds a fiery kick and irresistible taste to anything it touches.

Blazin’ Apple Whiskey BBQ Sauce is a mouthwatering concoction that brings together the smoky richness of whiskey, the fruity sweetness of apple jelly, the slight of jalapeno, the deep flavors of molasses, and brown sugar, and the tang of apple cider vinegar.

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This sauce is the perfect companion for pork, fish and even poultry. Blazin’ Apple Whiskey BBQ Sauce takes your grilling experience to a whole new level by infusing subtle smoky, oak forward flavor into every bite.

The result if this combination? A sauce that brings a touch of sophistication to your favorite bbq stained tee shirt as you dive head first into another bite.

What Whiskey To Use In BBQ Sauce?

Blazin’ Apple Whiskey BBQ Sauce derives its unique character from the addition of whiskey. The smoky and oaky notes of whiskey add depth and complexity to the sauce, creating a fusion of flavors.

There are a number of different apple flavored whiskey’s on the market. For making BBQ sauce, I don’t find one is any better than another and I’ve used several. So, use whatever is most convenient and accessible to you.

Tap Images Below for Other BBQ Sauces You’ll Love

Apple Jelly in BBQ Sauce?

The sweetness of apple jelly lends a delightful twist to Blazin’ Apple Whiskey BBQ Sauce. This fruity component complements the smokiness of the whiskey, providing a a nice balance of flavors.

The natural sugars in apple jelly combined with the brown sugar, creating a mouthwatering BBQ sauce that’s so much better than anything you can get off the shelf. The touch of apple adds a hint of freshness, perfectly balancing the other bold ingredients.

Adding Jalapeno To BBQ Sauce

Whether you prefer a mild or a bold heat level, the jalapeno in this sauce can be adjusted to suit your personal preference. Just keep in mind, the unique spiciness from the pepper enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.

For those seeking an extra kick in their apple whiskey BBQ Sauce, feel free to add more or leave the seeds in the jalapeno. The seeds are where the heat come from.

How To Balance a Sweet BBQ Sauce

The apple cider vinegar adds a tangy twist to Blazin’ Apple Whiskey BBQ Sauce. The vinegar brightens the overall flavor profile, bringing an acidity that balances the richness of the other components.

And if you really like the flavor profile of apple cider vinegar, try my East Carolina Mop Sauce. It’s not sweet at all, and just thinking about it makes my bald head start sweating…just a little. Delicious!

Along with vinegar, the black pepper is also important. Don’t use the pre-ground pepper from a shaker if you can avoid it, it lacks depth of flavor. Instead, grind your own peppercorns — it’s worth the effort.

Tip* Grinding pepper in a traditional pepper grinder can take a long, long time. Try the Pepper Cannon for crazy amounts of pepper in a hurry. It’s not cheap, but it’s definitely worth it.

How To Store Homemade BBQ Sauce

This sauce stores very well in the refrigerator. I recommend using a glass jar, so as not to risk staining a plastic container. Simply seal in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to a month.

How To Make Blazin’ Apple Whiskey BBQ Sauce

Prep Time: 5 mins | Cook Time: 20 mins | Serves: 20

Ingredients
1 ½ cups ketchup
¾ cup apple jelly
½ cup apple bourbon
⅓ cup apple cider vinegar
⅓  cup brown sugar
2 tbsp molasses
1 tbsp fine ground black pepper
1 tbsp garlic powder
1 tbsp onion powder
1½ tsp celery salt
1 tsp mustard powder
1 tbsp jalapeno, seeded and finely grated

Step 1: Add all ingredients to a medium sized saucepan.

Step 2: Place saucepan over medium low heat, and whisk until jelly melts and sauce becomes smooth.

Step 3: Cover sauce, reduce heat to low and let simmer for 20 minutes.