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Today’s recipe is a kid-friendly Apple Maple BBQ Sauce that is easy enough for kids to help make yet tasty enough for grown ups to enjoy. It pairs beautifully with everything from grilled chicken to pork, or even sandwiches and roasted veggies. It brings a subtle sweetness that plays well with the smoke and char of BBQ.

Apple Cider BBQ Sauce Recipe

Sweet apples and rich maple syrup come together in this glossy, amber-hued barbecue sauce that is incredibly versatile, easy and irresistible. I made this easy maple BBQ sauce with my daycare kids as a quick afternoon recipe for them to exercise their kitchen skills while getting to share their culinary prowess with their parents as a sweet, Thanksgiving gift.

The apple cider base provides a crisp fruitiness while maple syrup and sugar lend depth and caramel-like sweetness.

Dijon mustard adds sharpness, balancing the richness while a touch of cinnamon brings a warmth. The butter stirred in at the end creates a silky texture that clings beautifully to meats, roasted vegetables or even grilled sandwiches.

I’ve personally added this maple mustard sauce recipe to pork chops and brushed on grilled cheese (in place of butter) for a savoury fall flavor. It’s a great recipe to make with the kids and gift to loved ones, or let them enjoy it in a variety of ways in the weeks after making it.

Can I make this sauce ahead of time? Yes, it keeps well in the refrigerator for up to one week in a sealed container.

Can I freeze it? Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Can I reduce the sugar called for in this recipe? While you want a bit of sugar to cut the mustard and vinegar, you can reduce the sugar content by up to half, if desired. Taste to ensure the recipe tastes good before storing.

Can I use apple juice instead of apple cider? Yes, but apple cider adds more depth and tang. If using juice, consider reducing the sugar a bit.

Apple BBQ Sauce Ingredients

• Apple cider
• Maple syrup
• Brown sugar
• Apple cider vinegar
• Dijon mustard
• Cinnamon, optional
• Butter

Scroll down to the printable recipe card for full measurements.

Tip: taste and adjust, adding your favorite seasonings as desired. Also, if not using real maple syrup be sure to watch the recipe to ensure it doesn’t burn.

Kitchen Tools You May Find Helpful

• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Saucepan
• Whisk
• Storage Jar

How to Make Apple BBQ Sauce

In a medium saucepan, combine apple cider, maple syrup, sugar, vinegar, Dijon mustard and cinnamon (if using).

Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves.

Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce cook gently for 10-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reduces slightly and thickens.

Remove from heat and stir in butter until fully melted and the sauce is glossy.

Let cool slightly before serving. Store leftovers in the refrigerator.

Pin this Apple BBQ Sauce for an Easy Fall Gift:

Grab your free printable recipe card for our apple maple BBQ sauce recipe:

I hope your family loves this easy apple butter BBQ as much as mine did!

For more homemade pantry staples, check out our full pantry staples recipe collection here:

For more recipes kids can make, check out our full kid-made recipe collection here: