Homemade Peach and Whiskey Barbecue Sauce Recipe

Last Updated on December 9, 2024 by Karen

Barbecue sauce is a staple in the United States, and when you top your next grilled dinner with this sweet and tangy whiskey peach BBQ sauce, you may just never go back to store-bought sauces.

This peach barbecue sauce has a light flavor, with a perfect blend of ripe peaches, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and worcestershire sauce, creating a tangy BBQ sauce that’s full of smoky flavor and a little kick from a dash of hot sauce and a splash of whiskey. This is a great way to elevate any grilled meat, and it’s a perfect accompaniment for pork chops, hot dogs, or even grilled chicken.

It’s peak peach season, and I’m taking advantage by making all types of recipes with fresh peaches from the farmers markets, my summer loves! If you love peaches as much as I do, next time you should try this Peach and Ginger Iced Tea, Frozen Peach Bellini, and for now, this Homemade Peach and Whiskey Barbecue Sauce!

I love making homemade barbecue sauce (such as this Kansas City-Style BBQ Sauce). Once you make it at home, the store-bought bottled sauces just don’t quite cut it.

What does Peach and Whiskey Barbecue Sauce taste like?

This homemade peach barbecue sauce recipe will transform fresh peaches into a great sauce packed with sweet and savory flavors. The sweetness of the peaches is perfectly balanced with the depth of worcestershire sauce, the light-hearted sauce of vinegar, and a little touch of natural smoke flavor from liquid smoke for that classic BBQ flavor.

The whiskey peach BBQ sauce gives a spicy sauce with just a slight touch of heat, while maintaining a rich, sweet sauce that’s ideal for glazing ribs or using as a dipping sauce for white meats or dark meats. Note that the alcohol in the whiskey will cook off as the sauce simmers, leaving behind a rich flavor.

 Why make your own BBQ sauce?

• You can control the amount of salt. This homemade version is low in sodium, perfect for grilled or smoked meats that are heavily seasoned with salty BBQ spice rub.
• You can control the amount of sugar. The ripe peaches provide sweetness, but feel free to substitute with maple syrup or pure cane sugar for a different kind of sweetness. I have done a taste test with maple syrup or sugar, and I couldn’t really taste the difference.
• It’s super easy to make with ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. You just have to simmer everything in one medium saucepan and blend it up.
• You can make a big batch and keep it in an air-tight container for use later or give it away as a great gift to friends and family.

Here are the ingredients you will need to make this Homemade Peach Barbecue Sauce:

• Peaches: Choose tree-ripened peaches for the best flavor. The sweet fruit adds the perfect natural sweetness to the sauce.
• Tomato sauce: Gives the sauce its body and helps to create that rich, savory base. You can also use tomato paste thinned out with water.
• Apple cider vinegar: Adds that perfect tangy BBQ sauce flavor. You can also substitute with lemon juice for a slightly different taste.
• Brown sugar: For that caramelized sweetness, but feel free to substitute with peach preserves or hot honey for added complexity. You can also use white granulated sugar with a touch of molasses.
• Garlic powder: Adds a savory touch to the sauce; you can also use fresh garlic if you prefer.
• Onion powder: A little goes a long way in adding depth and savory flavor. If you don’t have onion powder, you can use some dehydrated onion flakes. Just be careful with the amount because a little bit goes a long way.
• Worcestershire sauce: A key ingredient that adds a deep, rich flavor to the sauce.
• BBQ rub: Any rub you have on hand will do, but a Vidalia onion rub gives a sweet, subtle flavor. Also check out my Best Homemade Coffee Rub Recipe for BBQ Brisket.
• Whiskey: A splash of whiskey adds depth and richness, perfectly complementing the sweetness of the peaches. Whiskey also contributes to the smoky flavor of this BBQ sauce, making it ideal for grilling.

How to make fresh peach barbecue sauce from scratch:

1. Combine all ingredients in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then simmer on medium heat for 10-15 minutes. The peaches will soften and turn jammy.
2. Let cool and use an immersion blender, blender, or food processor to blend it all together. For a smoother sauce, blend until completely smooth, or blend just partially for a chunkier consistency.

Optional: Add more water if you like your BBQ sauce to be thinner. If you like your BBQ sauce really thick, transfer the pureed mixture back into the saucepan and simmer on low heat until it thickens up more.

How much BBQ sauce do you serve per person?

I usually serve about 1/4 cup of BBQ sauce per person.

How long does this homemade peach barbecue sauce last?

Once the sauce is made, you can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week, or freeze it for up to 3 months. I usually make a double batch so I can use one now, and have more for later since they last a long time when frozen.

Homemade Peach Barbecue Sauce for canning

For long-term storage, ladle the prepared BBQ sauce into clean glass jars, leaving 1/2 inch headspace. Wipe the rims and seal tightly with the bands and lids. For water bath canning, process the jars for 15 minutes. Let cool and store for up to a year in a cool, dark place.

Do you have to peel the skin from the peaches?

No, you don’t have to peel the peaches since everything gets blended up at the end.

Can I use frozen or canned peaches?

You can definitely use frozen peach slices (thawed) if fresh peaches are out of season. You can also use peach preserves or even canned peaches (drained), but since they’re already sweetened, you may want to reduce the amount of brown sugar in the recipe.

What other kinds of fruit can I use?

Stone fruits such as nectarines, apricots, and plums would work great in this barbecue sauce recipe. You can also try using blueberry BBQ sauce for a unique twist!

Is this homemade BBQ sauce gluten-free?

Yes, this barbecue sauce recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it safe for those with dietary restrictions.

What are some ways to use Peach and Whiskey Barbecue Sauce?

There are many delicious recipes you can try with this sauce:
– Use on grilled meat such as pork chops, hot dogs, or chicken wings.
– Slather on smoked ribs or use it as a dipping sauce for fried chicken.
– Glazing ribs or using it as a finishing sauce will add amazing flavor and moisture to your meat.
– Try it as a topping for burgers or as a dipping sauce for hot dogs.

What are some variations of this BBQ sauce?

– Spicy whiskey peach barbecue sauce: Add a chopped jalapeno or a pinch of red pepper flakes to bring in the heat.
– Add a touch of Dijon mustard or whole grain mustard to balance the sweetness.
– Peach and bourbon barbecue sauce: Add 1-2 tbsps of bourbon instead of whiskey.
– Grilled peach barbecue sauce: Grill the peaches for a smoky, caramelized flavor before blending them into the sauce.
– Xanthan gum: Optional for thickening the sauce, giving it a nice, smooth consistency.

This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to make a good barbecue sauce that is full of flavor and can be used in different ways. Enjoy your next BBQ with this sweet, smoky, and spicy sauce!