Blueberry BBQ Sauce (with Bourbon Option!)
Sweet, smoky, and bold—this blueberry BBQ sauce is made with juicy blueberries, molasses, balsamic vinegar, and smoky spices for a flavorful twist. Use it on ribs, chicken, pork, or veggies. Includes a freezer-friendly tip and an optional bourbon variation!
Servings 20 (2-TBLS servings)
Calories 40kcal
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
- 1 cup Heinz-style chili sauce
- ⅓ cup light brown sugar packed
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon molasses
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper optional
- Optional: 2 tablespoons bourbon
- Optional: ¼ teaspoon cayenne or chipotle powder for heat
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the blueberries, chili sauce, brown sugar, balsamic vinegar, molasses, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper (and bourbon, if using).
- Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat. Reduce the heat and simmer uncovered for 20 minutes, mashing the blueberries with a fork or potato masher as they cook.
- (Optional) Blend the sauce using an immersion blender, or allow it to cool slightly and carefully transfer to a blender.
- Safety Tip: Never blend hot liquids in a sealed blender. Remove the lid insert and cover loosely with a towel.
- Return to the saucepan (if blended), and simmer for another 5 to 10 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
- Let the sauce cool completely. Transfer to airtight jars or containers. Refrigerate for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months.
Notes
Makes about 2.5 cups Blueberry BBQ Sauce
No need to thaw frozen blueberries before using.
The bourbon adds warmth and complexity—use a good-quality bourbon for best flavor.
Add chipotle powder, cayenne, or minced jalapeño for a spicier version.
Sauce will thicken after cooling; thin with a little water if needed.
Not tested for canning—freeze for long-term storage.
No need to thaw frozen blueberries before using.
The bourbon adds warmth and complexity—use a good-quality bourbon for best flavor.
Add chipotle powder, cayenne, or minced jalapeño for a spicier version.
Sauce will thicken after cooling; thin with a little water if needed.
Not tested for canning—freeze for long-term storage.
Nutrition
Serving: 2TBLS | Calories: 40kcal | Carbohydrates: 10g | Protein: 0.5g | Fat: 0.1g | Saturated Fat: 0.01g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.02g | Sodium: 227mg | Potassium: 94mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin A: 180IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 11mg | Iron: 0.3mg
