If you're looking for a unique and flavorful twist on classic barbecue sauce, this apricot BBQ sauce is a game-changer! Made with apricot preserves, soy sauce, and smoky spices, it strikes the perfect balance between sweet, tangy, and savory. Whether you're brushing it on smoked St. Louis ribs, grilled chicken, or even pork chops, this sauce adds a sticky, caramelized finish that will have everyone licking their fingers.
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Why You'll Love This Apricot BBQ Sauce
- Sweet & Tangy - Apricot preserves add a natural fruity sweetness balanced by apple cider vinegar.
- Smoky & Savory - A touch of smoked paprika, garlic powder, and soy sauce give this sauce depth and umami.
- Versatile - Perfect for ribs, chicken, pork, and even as a dipping sauce!
- Easy to Make - Just simmer everything together, and it's ready in 15 minutes.
Let's Gather Up the Ingredients
- Apricot preserves- The star ingredient, providing natural sweetness, fruity depth, and a thick texture. It also helps the sauce caramelize beautifully on meat.
- Ketchup- Adds tomato richness, a hint of acidity, and body to the sauce. It also balances the sweetness from the apricot preserves.
- Soy sauce- Gives the sauce a savory umami boost while adding depth to counter the sweetness.
- Apple cider vinegar- Brings tanginess and a slight bite to balance out the sweetness. It also helps tenderize meats when used as a glaze.
- Dijon mustard- Adds a mild heat and tang, while helping to emulsify the sauce for a smooth texture.
- Liquid smoke- Enhances the smoky BBQ flavor without needing hours on a smoker. A little goes a long way!
- Smoked paprika- Deepens the smoky, slightly sweet flavor profile, complementing both the apricot and liquid smoke.
- Fresh Garlic- Provides a bold, aromatic kick that enhances the savory depth of the sauce. Since it's fresh, it will have a sharper, more intense garlic flavor compared to garlic powder, but you can use whichever you have on hand.
- Onion powder- Adds savory richness and rounds out the sauce's base flavors.
- Black pepper- Gives the sauce a mild heat and enhances the complexity.
- Cayenne pepper (optional for a kick)- Adds a subtle heat for those who like a spicy BBQ sauce.
- Butter (for a silky finish)- Finishes the sauce with a glossy, silky texture, making it perfect for brushing onto meat.
Now Let's Get Cooking
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine all ingredients except the butter.
Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
Remove from heat and stir in butter for a smooth, glossy finish.
Let cool slightly, then use immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks.
How to Use Apricot BBQ Sauce
- On Ribs - Brush onto smoked St. Louis ribs during the last hour of cooking for a sticky glaze.
- On Chicken - Slather it over grilled or baked chicken for a sweet and smoky finish.
- On Pulled Pork - Mix it into pulled pork for a unique BBQ twist.
- As a Dip - Serve as a dipping sauce for fries, onion rings, or even grilled shrimp.
Tips for the Best Apricot BBQ Sauce
- Want it spicier? Add more Chipotle Peppers or a dash of hot sauce.
- Prefer a smoother sauce? Blend it for a silky texture.
- Thicker sauce? Simmer a little longer to reduce or add a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with water.
This homemade apricot BBQ sauce is a must-try for your next BBQ night! Whether you're using a gas grill, Traeger pellet grill or oven, this sauce adds incredible flavor to whatever you're cooking. Give it a try and let me know how you use it!
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Apricot BBQ Sauce Recipe
Ingredients
- 18 ounces apricot preserves
- ½ cup ketchup
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon liquid smoke
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1-2 cloves fresh garlic (grated) or ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper optional for heat
- 1 tablespoons butter for a glossy finish
Instructions
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine all ingredients except the butter.Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.Remove from heat and stir in butter for a smooth, glossy finish.Let cool slightly, then use immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks.
Deborah says
We used this bbq sauce on the grilled pork chops we made tonight. I’m not normally a bbq sauce fan, but this sauce has changed my opinion. Sweet and a little spicy, it goes perfect with pork and I’m sure it’s great on chicken as well. It was also easy to make.