Ancho-Chipotle Molasses BBQ Sauce
A smoky, sweet barbecue sauce layered with ancho and chipotle chili powders, enriched with molasses and a touch of cocoa. This american-inspired bbq & smoked ready in about 20 minutes blends ketchup, dark brown sugar, chipotle chili powder into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 50 calories and feeds 12, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.
Ingredients
- 1 cup ketchup
- 3 tbsp dark brown sugar
- 1 1/2 tsp chipotle chili powder
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tbsp molasses
- 3 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp ancho chili powder
- 1/2 tsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 tsp liquid smoke
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 3/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
Equipment for this recipe
Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.
Instructions
- Step 1: Combine 1 cup ketchup, 3 tablespoons dark brown sugar, 1 1/2 teaspoons chipotle chili powder, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, and 2 tablespoons molasses in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
- Step 2: Whisk in 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon ancho chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon unsweetened cocoa powder, 1/2 teaspoon liquid smoke, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, and 3/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper until fully incorporated.
- Step 3: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and reduce heat to low. Let the sauce cook uncovered for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and the flavors meld.
- Step 4: Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature before using or storing in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Ancho-Chipotle Molasses BBQ Sauce take to make?
Total time is about 20 minutes (5 min prep + 15 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.
How do I store leftover Ancho-Chipotle Molasses BBQ Sauce?
Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.
Can I substitute ingredients in Ancho-Chipotle Molasses BBQ Sauce?
Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.
How do I scale Ancho-Chipotle Molasses BBQ Sauce for a different number of people?
The recipe is written for 12 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 12). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.
What goes well with Ancho-Chipotle Molasses BBQ Sauce?
American bbq & smoked like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.
