THE RECIPE JOURNAL · Side Dish
Preserve Your Own Apple BBQ Sauce
This tangy and sweet apple BBQ sauce is the perfect way to add a homemade twist to your grilling favorites. Easy to make and great for preserving, it’s a delicious way to enjoy fresh apples all year round.
FROM THE KITCHEN • Preserve Your Own Apple BBQ Sauce
01 THE RECIPE
Let's make it.
Follow these steps for a delicious result. Tick off each step as you go.
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01
Step 1
In a large pot, combine the applesauce, brown sugar, tomato sauce, vinegar, salt, garlic powder, cinnamon, liquid smoke, chili powder, paprika, black pepper, cayenne, and cloves. Bring everything to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer gently for about 1 1/2 to 2 hours, until the sauce thickens up nicely.
02
Step 2
While the sauce is cooking, sterilize your jars and lids by boiling them in water for at least 5 minutes. Once the sauce is ready, carefully ladle it into the hot jars, leaving about a quarter inch of space at the top. Run a thin spatula or knife around the inside edges to get rid of any air bubbles. Wipe the rims clean with a damp paper towel before sealing them with the lids and rings.
03
Step 3
Next, set a rack in the bottom of a large pot and fill it halfway with water. Bring the water to a boil, then gently lower the jars into the pot, making sure they’re not touching each other. Add more boiling water if needed so it covers the jars by at least an inch. Cover the pot and let the jars process in the boiling water for 20 minutes.
04
Step 4
When the time’s up, carefully take the jars out and set them on a towel or wooden surface, spaced apart, to cool. After they’ve cooled down, press the center of each lid to check the seal—it shouldn’t pop up or down. Store your jars in a cool, dark place and enjoy your homemade sauce!
Why you’ll love it
This sauce brings a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors with a hint of smoky spice. Making it at home lets you control the ingredients and customize the taste to your liking. It’s a great way to preserve the fresh apple harvest and enjoy it year-round.
How to serve
This sauce pairs wonderfully with grilled meats like chicken, pork, or ribs. It also works well as a dipping sauce for fries or as a glaze over roasted vegetables. Try spreading it on sandwiches for a sweet and tangy twist.
Storage & leftovers
Store the sauce in sterilized jars and seal them tightly to keep it fresh. Keep unopened jars in a cool, dark place like a pantry. Once opened, refrigerate and use within a few weeks for the best flavor.
