Homemade Apricot BBQ Sauce Recipe

I was cleaning out my pantry last month when I found a jar of apricot preserves that I’d completely forgotten about. It was one of those impulse purchases that seemed like a good idea at the time, but then just sat there while I tried to figure out what to do with it besides spreading it on toast. I was about to toss it when I started thinking about how fruit and BBQ flavors sometimes work beautifully together.

I’d been getting bored with the same old BBQ sauce routine lately, always reaching for the same bottle from the store that tasted fine but never really excited anyone. The idea of making my own sauce using that forgotten jar of preserves started to seem more and more appealing, especially since I already had most of the other ingredients I’d need.

The first time I experimented with combining the apricot preserves with traditional BBQ sauce ingredients, I wasn’t sure what to expect. Would the fruit flavor be too sweet? Would it clash with the smoky, tangy elements I was used to? But as the sauce started simmering on my stove, the aroma was absolutely incredible – fruity but balanced, with that familiar BBQ depth I was looking for.

When I brushed it on some grilled chicken for the first taste test, I was amazed at how perfect the balance was. The apricot added this beautiful sweetness and complexity without being overwhelming, while all those traditional BBQ flavors still came through clearly. It was like discovering a whole new dimension of flavor I’d been missing.

What is Apricot BBQ Sauce?

Apricot BBQ sauce is a sweet, tangy, and just a little bit spicy sauce that feels like summer in a jar. Instead of using only the usual ketchup or tomato base, this recipe blends in juicy fresh apricots that melt down into the sauce, giving it a natural fruity sweetness. The flavor is balanced with vinegar for tang, honey for depth, and warm spices for a gentle kick. I love how it’s versatile—you can brush it over chicken on the grill, spoon it over pork, or even use it as a dip for roasted veggies. It’s one of those sauces that makes people wonder what the “secret ingredient” is, and when you tell them it’s apricots, they’re always pleasantly surprised.

Why Apricot BBQ Sauce is Perfect for Grilling and Smoking

When it comes to grilling and smoking, apricot BBQ sauce just hits different. The natural sweetness from the apricots caramelizes beautifully over the heat, giving meats that gorgeous sticky glaze you can’t resist. The tangy vinegar and savory spices balance it out so it’s not overly sweet, and that little kick of heat makes every bite pop. I’ve brushed it over ribs that came off the smoker fall-apart tender, and the sauce turned into this glossy layer of flavor that had everyone licking their fingers. Whether you’re doing chicken, pork, or even grilled veggies, this sauce doesn’t just sit there—it becomes part of the dish, soaking in that smoky flavor and making it unforgettable.

Choosing the Best Fresh or Dried Apricots for BBQ Sauce

If you want your BBQ sauce to really shine, the type of apricots you use makes a big difference. Fresh apricots bring a light, juicy sweetness and a bit of tartness that feels bright and summery—perfect if you’re making sauce in peak season. I love using them when they’re just soft enough to mash easily, but not overripe. Dried apricots, on the other hand, give a richer, deeper flavor that’s almost honey-like, and they make the sauce a bit thicker. If I’m cooking in the cooler months, I’ll soak dried apricots in warm water for 20 minutes before chopping them, so they blend in smoothly. Honestly, both work beautifully—it just depends on whether you want that fresh, fruity pop or a more concentrated, sweet depth in your BBQ sauce.

Key Ingredients in Apricot BBQ Sauce

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• Apricots – The star of the sauce, bringing natural sweetness and a fruity tang. You can use fresh for a bright flavor or dried for a deeper, richer taste.

• Onion – Adds savory depth and balances the sweetness.

• Garlic – Brings warmth and aroma to the sauce.

• Honey – Enhances the apricot’s sweetness and gives the sauce a silky texture.

• Cider Vinegar – Cuts through the sweetness with a tangy kick.

• Worcestershire Sauce – Adds umami and complexity.

• Hot Pepper Flakes – A touch of heat to wake up the flavors.

• Dry Mustard – Gives a subtle, sharp note that complements the fruit.

• Salt – Rounds out and balances all the flavors.

Tips for Making the Best Apricot BBQ Sauce

• Pick ripe, flavorful apricots – The sweeter and juicier they are, the richer your sauce will taste. If you’re using dried apricots, soak them in warm water first to soften and plump them up.

• Don’t rush the simmer – Let the sauce bubble gently so the flavors have time to blend and deepen. This is where the magic happens.

• Taste as you go – Apricots can vary in sweetness, so adjust the honey, vinegar, or salt until it’s just right for your taste.

• Blend for smoothness – If you like a silky sauce, blend it after cooking. For a rustic texture, leave it chunky.

• Play with the spice level – Add more or less hot pepper flakes depending on how much heat you enjoy.

• Let it rest before serving – Just like chili or stew, this sauce tastes even better after sitting for a bit, so the flavors can fully settle.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large saucepan – Big enough to hold all your ingredients without splattering as it simmers.

• Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula – Perfect for stirring without scratching your pan.

• Sharp knife & cutting board – For chopping apricots, onion, and garlic.

• Measuring cups & spoons – To get the sweet, tangy, and spicy balance just right.

• Immersion blender or regular blender – If you like your sauce smooth instead of chunky.

• Boiling water bath canner – If you’re planning to store your sauce in jars for later.

• Sterilized jars with lids – To keep your sauce fresh and shelf-stable.

• Jar lifter & funnel – Makes filling and handling hot jars so much easier (and safer).

Using Apricot BBQ Sauce as a Marinade

You can give your meat a sweet and tangy boost by using apricot BBQ sauce as a marinade. I love brushing it over chicken or pork a few hours before cooking—the fruit adds gentle sweetness, and the honey with vinegar helps tenderize the meat. You don’t need to drench it; just coat evenly, cover, and let it rest in the fridge so the flavors soak in. My favorite trick is saving a bit of fresh sauce to brush on right before serving, giving you that glossy, caramelized finish that makes even a simple grilled dinner feel special.

Best Meats to Pair with Apricot BBQ Sauce

If you’re wondering which meats really shine with apricot BBQ sauce, I’d say this sweet, tangy glaze has a way of making so many proteins taste even better. I love it brushed over juicy grilled chicken or tender pork chops—it gives them a caramelized, slightly fruity crust that’s hard to resist. It’s also amazing on slow-cooked ribs, where the sauce soaks into every bite. For something a little different, try it with roasted turkey breast or even grilled salmon—the apricot brings a bright contrast to the richer flavors. And if you’re a fan of lamb, a light glaze during the last few minutes of roasting adds a surprisingly delicious twist.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Switch the sweetener – Instead of honey, you can use brown sugar, maple syrup, or even agave for a slightly different sweetness.

• Adjust the heat – If you like a mild sauce, reduce the chili flakes. If you want more kick, add a chopped fresh chili or a dash of cayenne pepper.

• Use dried apricots – No fresh apricots? Rehydrate dried ones in warm water, then blend them into the sauce for a rich, concentrated flavor.

• Add smoky depth – Mix in a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a splash of liquid smoke to give the sauce a more BBQ-style aroma.

• Make it tangier – Replace some of the cider vinegar with lemon juice or white wine vinegar for a brighter, sharper taste.

• Try different fruit – Swap apricots for peaches, nectarines, or plums for a fun twist on the flavor profile.

• Make it alcohol-free – If you’re avoiding alcohol, replace any wine or bourbon in similar recipes with apple juice or extra vinegar for balance.

How to Store and Freeze Apricot BBQ Sauce

I usually like to make a big batch of apricot BBQ sauce so I can enjoy it later, and storing it is super simple. Once the sauce cools completely, pour it into clean glass jars or airtight containers and keep it in the fridge—it will stay fresh for about 1 to 2 weeks. If you want to freeze it, just spoon the sauce into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving a little space at the top for it to expand. Label with the date, and it can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and warm it gently on the stove, stirring well so it’s smooth and glossy again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use dried apricots instead of fresh?
Yes! Just soak the dried apricots in warm water for about 20–30 minutes until they’re soft, then chop them and use them in the recipe. They’ll give a slightly richer, more concentrated flavor.

Is this sauce very spicy?
Not really—it has a gentle heat from the pepper flakes, but the sweetness of the apricots and honey balances it out. You can always add more chili flakes if you like extra heat.

Can I skip the canning process and just refrigerate it?
Absolutely. If you’re not planning to store it for months, you can skip canning and simply keep it in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

What meats taste best with apricot BBQ sauce?
It pairs beautifully with pork, chicken, turkey, and even grilled salmon. The sweet and tangy flavor works with almost anything you’d normally put BBQ sauce on.

Can I make it thicker?
Yes—just simmer it a bit longer until it reduces to your desired thickness. Stir often so it doesn’t stick to the bottom.

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