Simple Spicy Barbecue Sauce

Elevate your grilling game with this Simple Spicy Barbecue Sauce, a bold and flavorful homemade condiment that's ready in just 20 minutes! Featuring a balanced blend of sweet honey, tangy apple cider vinegar, smoky chipotle chili powder, and a kick of cayenne pepper for optional heat, this recipe combines pantry staples into a rich, versatile sauce perfect for slathering on ribs, chicken, or grilled veggies. Its quick preparation and easy simmering technique make it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or weekend barbecues. Whether you're looking to spice up your backyard cookout or add a smoky-sweet flair to a slow-cooked recipe, this barbecue sauce is sure to impress. Make a batch today and store it in the fridge to enjoy all week long!

Nutriscore Rating: 61/100

Prep Time:5 mins

Cook Time:15 mins

Total Time:20 mins

Servings: 8

Ingredients

• 1 cup ketchup
• 0.25 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1.5 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 0.5 teaspoons chipotle chili powder
• 0.5 teaspoons black pepper
• 0.25 teaspoons cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
• 0.25 cup water

Directions

Step 1

In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, honey, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well to mix.

Step 2

Add the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chipotle chili powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir again to incorporate the spices evenly.

Step 3

Pour in the water to adjust the consistency. Stir until smooth.

Step 4

Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

Step 5

Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce cook for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and the flavors meld together.

Step 6

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed (add a pinch of salt or an extra touch of sweetness if preferred).

Step 7

Remove from heat and let the sauce cool to room temperature. It will continue to thicken slightly as it cools.

Step 8

Store the barbecue sauce in an airtight container or jar in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(454.0g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	473.2

Total Fat 0.6g	0%
Saturated Fat 0.1g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 1386.9mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 121.2g	0%
Dietary Fiber 2.3g	0%
Total Sugars 97.3g
Protein 1.7g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 77.7mg	0%
Iron 3.0mg	0%
Potassium 422.8mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 1.1%

Protein: 1.4%

Carbs: 97.5%