Copycat Kinder’s BBQ Sauce Recipe

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Over the years, I’ve experimented with countless sauces to perfect my grilling game, but one name always stood out: Kinder’s BBQ Sauce. Known for its bold taste and rich history, Kinder’s isn’t just barbecue sauce—it’s a story of flavor and passion dating back to 1946. If you love smoky, sweet, and tangy sauces as much as I do, you’re in for a treat.

How to make Kinder’s BBQ Sauce

Kinder’s BBQ Sauce is a line of family-crafted barbecue sauces, marinades, rubs, and seasonings produced by Kinder’s—a third-generation, California-based food business founded in 1946.

Ingredients

To make a homemade version of Kinder’s BBQ Sauce, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Core Ingredients:

• 1 cup ketchup – The base of nearly every barbecue sauce. Go for good-quality ketchup for the best flavor.
• ¼ cup apple cider vinegar – Adds the tangy kick Kinder’s BBQ Sauce is known for.
• ¼ cup brown sugar – Provides sweetness with a depth of molasses flavor.
• 2 tablespoons honey – Adds smooth sweetness and balances the smoky flavors.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – Boosts the umami and savory characteristics.
• 1 teaspoon liquid smoke – For that signature smoky flavor Kinder’s sauces are celebrated for.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – Enhances the smoky notes with a subtle spiciness.
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder – Adds a punch of flavor without being overpowering.
• ½ teaspoon onion powder – Complements the garlic and builds on the savory profile.
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional) – For a touch of heat if you enjoy spicier sauces.
• Salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste

Optional Ingredients for Personalization:

• 2 tablespoons pineapple juice – Inspired by Kinder’s Chipotle Pineapple Sauce for a fruity twist.
• 1 tablespoon bourbon – A nod to Bourbon Peach BBQ Sauce for extra depth and richness.

Instructions

1. Combine the base ingredients: In a medium-sized saucepan, whisk together ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, honey, and Worcestershire sauce. Make sure the mixture is smooth and well blended.
2. Add spices for flavor: Stir in liquid smoke, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Ensure the spices are evenly distributed in the sauce.
3. Cook and simmer: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Stir frequently to prevent sticking or burning. Let it simmer for about 10–15 minutes or until the sauce thickens and develops a deep, rich flavor.
4. Taste and adjust: Take a small taste and adjust the seasoning levels. Add more sweetness (honey or brown sugar) if it’s too tangy, or add a pinch of salt if you need more balance. If you’re experimenting with pineapple juice or bourbon, this is the moment to incorporate them.
5. Cool and store: Remove the sauce from the heat and let it cool completely. Store in an airtight container or mason jar in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Tips for Success

• Use fresh, high-quality ingredients: Opt for premium ketchup, fresh spices, and local honey to enhance the flavor of your homemade BBQ sauce.
• Don’t rush the simmering process: Letting the sauce develop on the stovetop helps meld the flavors, creating a sauce that’s rich and complex.
• Customize to your preference: Kinder’s BBQ Sauce comes in various flavors (Honey BBQ, Chipotle Pineapple, Bourbon Peach), so feel free to add unique ingredients like fruit juices or spices to make it your own.
• Pair wisely: Use this homemade sauce for ribs, grilled chicken, burgers, or as a dip for fries. It works wonderfully as a marinade as well—just brush it on 15 minutes before grilling for that perfect caramelized finish.
• Experiment with thickness: If you want a thicker sauce, add a small amount of cornstarch dissolved in water while the sauce simmers.

Ingredients Substitutes

Making the perfect barbecue sauce inspired by Kinder’s flavors can sometimes require flexibility, especially if you’re unable to find certain ingredients or need to accommodate dietary preferences.

1. Ketchup

Substitute: Tomato paste or tomato sauce (unsweetened).

How to Use: Mix ¾ cup of tomato paste or sauce with 1 tablespoon of sugar, 1 tablespoon of vinegar, and a pinch of salt to mimic the tangy and sweet flavor of ketchup.

Why: Ketchup forms the base of most barbecue sauces, but tomato paste or sauce offers a similar tomato flavor if you prefer a less processed alternative or need a sugar-free option.

2. Apple Cider Vinegar

Substitute: White vinegar, red wine vinegar, or lemon juice.

How to Use: Replace one-for-one with any of these alternatives. Lemon juice adds a fresh citrus twist, while red wine vinegar brings a bit more complexity.

Why: Apple cider vinegar provides the tanginess essential to BBQ sauces, but these substitutes work well in its absence.

3. Brown Sugar

Substitute: White sugar, coconut sugar, maple syrup, or molasses.

How to Use: Use the same amount of white sugar or slightly less molasses (as it’s sweeter). Coconut sugar or maple syrup can work as natural alternatives.

Why: The sweet component balances the tangy and smoky flavors. Brown sugar contains molasses, but substitutes can replicate these flavors.

4. Honey

Substitute: Maple syrup, agave nectar, or golden syrup.

How to Use: Replace honey in equal amounts with these alternatives. If you’re avoiding all added sweeteners, try a fruit-based sugar such as pureed dates or applesauce.

Why: Honey adds a smoother sweetness, but these substitutes can deliver similar results without drastically altering the flavor.

5. Worcestershire Sauce

Substitute: Soy sauce, tamari, coconut aminos, or balsamic vinegar.

How to Use: Mix 1 tablespoon soy sauce with a pinch of sugar and a splash of vinegar for an authentic Worcestershire alternative. For a vegan alternative, use tamari or coconut aminos.

Why: Worcestershire elevates umami, and soy-based alternatives or vinegar offer a comparable savory dimension.

6. Liquid Smoke

Substitute: Smoked paprika, chipotle powder, or charred vegetables.

How to Use: Add 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika or ½ teaspoon of chipotle powder (to start). Optionally, blend in juice from grilled onions or peppers to mimic smokiness.

Why: Liquid smoke gives BBQ sauce its signature smoky flavor, but smoked spices or grilled ingredients can replicate this effect naturally.

Final Thoughts

Now that you have the recipe for a homemade twist on Kinder’s BBQ Sauce, you’re all set to elevate your barbecue game. Whether it’s a summer cookout or a cozy family dinner, this sauce will have everyone licking their fingers in delight.