Kansas City Sweet Smoky BBQ Sauce

My goto recipe of barbecue sauce This Kansas Citystyle sauce is sweet smoky tangy Perfect for ribs pulled pork or burgers Get the easy recipe now ... Quick & Easy Weeknight Meals
- Kansas City Sweet & Smoky: Your New Go-To!
- Kansas City Sweet Smoky BBQ Sauce Recipe Card
- Get Your Gear Ready (and Your Taste Buds!)
- Let's Get Saucy: Your Kansas City BBQ Adventure Begins
- Ingredients & Equipment
- Kansas City Sweet & Smoky BBQ Sauce: Your New Go-To!
- Recipe Notes for Your New Favourite Sauce
- Frequently Asked Questions
Alright, mate, fancy making some proper good BBQ sauce? Ever wondered how the Yanks get that sweet and smoky thing going? Well, today we're diving headfirst into a Kansas City recipe of barbecue sauce that'll knock your socks off.
Kansas City Sweet & Smoky: Your New Go-To!
This isn't just any homemade BBQ sauce ; it's a taste of the American heartland. We're talking about a Kansas City BBQ Sauce Recipe that's the perfect blend of sweet, smoky, and a little bit tangy.
Think ribs, pulled pork, chicken... basically anything off the barbie!
Honestly, I've tried loads of barbecue sauce recipes , and this one just works . It's dead easy to make, and you probably already have most of the ingredients lurking in your cupboard.
A Bit of Background (Stateside Style)
This sauce hails from Kansas City, the BBQ capital of the US. It’s a classic, combining sweet molasses, tangy vinegar, and smoky spices.
It's ridiculously easy and will take about 40 minutes, start to finish. This recipe makes about 2 cups – enough to slather on a good rack of ribs.
Why You Need This In Your Life
The molasses not only gives it an unique flavour, but also a lovely rich colour. It goes perfectly with anything grilled.
Plus, making your own best BBQ sauce recipe means you know exactly what's going in it – no dodgy additives!
Kansas City Sweet Smoky BBQ Sauce Recipe Card

Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts
Get Your Gear Ready (and Your Taste Buds!)
So, what makes this BBQ sauce for ribs so special? For starters, it's that smoky paprika – it adds a depth of flavour that's just divine.
Plus, it’s so easy even your nan could make it! Let's gather our ingredients.

Let's Get Saucy: Your Kansas City BBQ Adventure Begins
Fancy whipping up a truly banging recipe of barbecue sauce ? Forget that shop-bought stuff. We're diving headfirst into homemade deliciousness! This is a Kansas City BBQ Sauce Recipe that will seriously knock your socks off.
This particular recipe brings the heart of the heartland right to your table. Trust me, once you go homemade, you won't go back! It's that good.
Ingredients & Equipment
Okay, let's gather our weapons. We are ready to create the Best BBQ Sauce Recipe .
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup (240 ml) ketchup. Go for good quality. It makes a difference.
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) apple cider vinegar. This is key to the Carolina BBQ Sauce tang.
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) molasses. This is where we get the sweetness.
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) packed brown sugar. Dark brown sugar is even better, honestly.
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) Worcestershire sauce. Adds that umami kick.
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) yellow mustard. A must!
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) smoked paprika. Crucial for the smoked BBQ sauce recipe.
- 1 teaspoon (5 ml) garlic powder.
- 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) onion powder.
- 1/4 teaspoon (1.25 ml) cayenne pepper. Adjust to your spice level.
- Salt and black pepper to taste.
Seasoning Notes
Smoked paprika is king. If you only get one thing right, make it this. It creates an authentic flavor. Don't skimp on the Worcestershire!
For a bit of a tweak, try a pinch of cumin. Or some liquid smoke if you are really fancy.
Apple cider vinegar is a must. Don't substitute it if you're aiming for that classic tang. This is a secret ingredient that brings out a complex, dynamic flavor profile to the Vinegar Based BBQ Sauce.
Equipment Needed
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
You really don't need much. A spoon will do in a pinch. I've used a fork before. I would not reccomend it though. Don't say I didn't warn you!
Let's face it: there's nothing like homemade BBQ sauce slathered on some ribs on a sunny afternoon. This easy BBQ sauce recipe will give you all the goods and be ready for grilling in no time at all.
I use it for my BBQ sauce for ribs recipe. But honestly, it goes well with anything.
Kansas City Sweet & Smoky BBQ Sauce: Your New Go-To!
Honestly, who doesn’t love a good barbecue sauce ? This Kansas City -style sauce is a banger. It nails that perfect sweet, smoky, and tangy vibe.
Think ribs, pulled pork, or even just dunking your chips. It's got heartland flavor written all over it.
Prep Like a Pro: Mise en Place is Key!
First, get your stuff together. Ketchup, vinegar, molasses. You know, the usual suspects. Measure everything out. This essential mise en place saves you time and stress. Trust me, organisation is a game-changer.
Step-by-Step to BBQ Glory
Alright, let’s get saucy.
- Whisk together all your ingredients in a saucepan. Ketchup, vinegar, molasses...the lot!
- Bring it to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat. Don't rush it.
- Simmer, uncovered, for 30 minutes . Stir now and then. We don't want any sticking.
- Taste and adjust. More cayenne for heat? More brown sugar for sweetness? You do you.
- Cool completely. Then, store it in the fridge. It lasts up to 2 weeks .
Pro Tips for the Best BBQ Sauce Recipe
Low and slow is the way to go. Simmering lets the flavors marry beautifully. Don't skimp on ingredients either. Good ketchup and molasses make all the difference.
A common mistake? Rushing the process. Don't do it! Make this ahead. The flavors get even better overnight. This homemade bbq sauce is way better than store-bought. Seriously, though.
Kansas City BBQ Sauce Recipe: The Bottom Line
This recipe of barbecue sauce is a winner. It's easy , delicious, and totally customizable. This sweet and smoky Kansas City BBQ sauce is your new go-to.
What are you waiting for? Get cooking! This is the bbq sauce for ribs you have been looking for!
Recipe Notes for Your New Favourite Sauce
So you're about to dive into this Kansas City BBQ Sauce Recipe ? Ace! Honestly, this is one of my go-to Barbecue Sauce Recipes .
Let's chat about how to make it your own. I've messed around with it a bunch, and these are the things I've learned.
Plating Like a Pro & What Goes Great With It
Forget just slapping it on. Think about presentation. This homemade BBQ sauce looks amazing drizzled over ribs with a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
Or, use it as a dipping sauce for crispy sweet potato fries. For sides, you can't beat creamy coleslaw or some grilled corn on the cob.
It's a match made in heaven. A nice, cold beer or iced tea? Sorted.
Storing Your Liquid Gold
This sauce keeps well, which is great. Once it's cooled down, pop it into an airtight container. It'll be fine in the fridge for up to two weeks.
If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it. Just make sure you use a freezer-safe container. When you're ready to use it, let it thaw in the fridge overnight.
To reheat just use a saucepan or microwave until warm. Be careful not to boil it .
Tweaking it to Your Taste
Want to mix things up? Easy peasy. For a Vinegar Based Bbq Sauce vibe, add a splash more apple cider vinegar.
Want a bit of heat? A pinch more cayenne pepper does the trick. You could try a Carolina Bbq Sauce variation, just go heavier on the vinegar and mustard.
If you are vegan, you need to check that your Worcestershire sauce is vegan. You can also go the Smoked BBQ Sauce Recipe and toss a handful of paprika into your smoker when you fire it up for an amazing flavour.
A Little Bit About Nutrition
Ok, I am no nutritionist, you know. But a little goes a long way with this recipe of barbecue sauce .
Just so you know, it's mostly sugar from the molasses and brown sugar, so it's a treat. It’s got some sodium, mainly from the ketchup, and a tiny bit of good stuff from the spices.
You know? Everything in moderation, eh?
So, there you have it. A Best BBQ Sauce Recipe that's easy to make, easy to adapt, and totally delicious.
Don't be scared to experiment and make it your own. You got this!

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I adjust the sweetness or spiciness in this recipe of barbecue sauce?
Absolutely! Taste is subjective, innit? If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add a bit more brown sugar or even a touch of honey. For more heat, gradually increase the amount of cayenne pepper, or even add a pinch of chili flakes. Remember, you can always add more, but you can't take it away!
How should I store my homemade barbecue sauce, and how long will it last?
Once your sauce has cooled completely, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 2 weeks – though I'd be surprised if it lasts that long! Just give it a good sniff and look before using it, as you would with any homemade condiment. If it smells or looks off, best to chuck it.
I don't have smoked paprika. Can I still make this recipe of barbecue sauce?
While smoked paprika adds a lovely depth of smoky flavor, you can definitely substitute it. Regular paprika will still provide color and a bit of flavor. You could also add a few drops of liquid smoke (use sparingly, a little goes a long way!) or even a dash of chipotle powder for a different kind of smoky heat.
What's the best way to use this Kansas City Sweet & Smoky BBQ Sauce?
Oh, the possibilities are endless! This sauce is brilliant on ribs, pulled pork, and grilled chicken. Try brushing it on during the last few minutes of grilling for a sticky, glazed finish. It's also fantastic as a dipping sauce for chips, chicken tenders, or even onion rings. Get creative and see what you like!
Is this recipe of barbecue sauce suitable for vegans?
With a small tweak, yes! The key is to make sure your Worcestershire sauce is vegan, as some brands contain anchovies. There are plenty of vegan Worcestershire sauce options available these days, so just double-check the label. Then you are good to go!
Can I make a big batch of this sauce and freeze it for later?
You sure can! Make sure the sauce is completely cooled, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or freezer bags. Leave a little headspace in the containers as the sauce will expand slightly when frozen. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before using.