Honey Bourbon BBQ Sauce

This recipe is one I compiled from several recipes I found on Pinterest.

Honey Bourbon BBQ Sauce

Ingredients:

1/2 cup brown sugar
1 cup ketchup
1/2 cup bourbon, Maker's Mark OR Jim Bean ** OR Hazelnut Syrup OR REAL Maple Syrup
1/4 cup honey
3 Tbsp mustard
3 Tbsp soy sauce
3 Tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder

1 tsp chili powder

1 tsp Mesquite spice mix
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp salt
1/8 tsp cayenne pepper, optional to taste

Preparation:

~    Combine all ingredients in a small saucepan over medium heat.

~    Mix with a whisk until completely blended and smooth

~    Bring to a boil; let boil for 5 minutes

~    Reduce to a simmer; let simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally

~    Pour into a container (a standard Mason jar is the perfect size), cover, and chill

~    Let it sit for a few hours to thicken up before using - serve at room temperature
Enjoy!
Recipe makes about 2 cups of sauce.

** For my non-drinking friends - Bourbon and Whiskey are generally the same thing -- it really depends where its made. AND the Alcohol cooks out as it boils, leaving just the flavor.

NOTE: This sauce can easily be made gluten-free by using Heinz ketchup and mustard (or other gluten-free brands), tamari-style soy sauce, and Maker's Mark bourbon.