This Applebee’s Honey BBQ Sauce Copycat Recipe brings restaurant-quality flavor right to your kitchen. Whether you’re grilling, baking, or just craving a tangy-sweet dip, this sauce hits all the right notes. Give it a try and elevate your meals with the perfect balance of honey sweetness and smoky barbecue goodness.

Bottle of homemade Applebee’s honey BBQ sauce with a bowl of sauce for dipping
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If you’re craving the delicious, sweet, and tangy flavor of Applebee’s Honey BBQ Sauce, you’re in the right place!

This Applebee’s Honey BBQ Sauce Copycat Recipe perfectly replicates the iconic sauce you love on their ribs, chicken, and wings. Made with simple pantry ingredients, it’s easy to whip up and elevates any grilled or baked dish.

Homemade Applebee’s honey BBQ sauce served in a small bowl with a brush

Why You’ll Love This Applebee’s Honey BBQ Sauce Copycat Recipe

  • Authentic Flavor: Matches the taste of Applebee’s famous honey barbecue sauce.
  • Versatile Use: Great on ribs, chicken tenders, burgers, and more.
  • Simple Ingredients: No need for specialty sauces—use what you have at home.
  • Customizable Sweetness: Adjust honey levels to suit your taste buds.
  • Perfect Balance: Sweet, tangy, and smoky all in one bottle.

Applebee’s Honey BBQ Sauce Ingredients

Ingredients needed for Applebee’s Honey BBQ Sauce Copycat Recipe
  • Ketchup
  • Honey (for natural sweetness)
  • Apple cider vinegar (adds tanginess)
  • Brown sugar (for depth and caramel notes)
  • Worcestershire sauce (boosts umami flavor)
  • Smoked paprika (adds smoky warmth)
  • Garlic powder and onion powder (for savory notes)
  • Salt and black pepper (to taste)

How To Make Applebee’s Honey BBQ Sauce Copycat Recipe

Mix all of the ingredients into a large saucepan.

Step One: In a medium saucepan, combine ketchup, honey, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. Add smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk well to combine.

Step Two: Heat over medium heat, stirring frequently until the mixture simmers gently. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly. Taste and adjust sweetness or tanginess by adding more honey or vinegar if needed.

Step Three: Let the sauce cool before using or storing in an airtight container in the fridge.

Jar of homemade Applebee’s honey BBQ sauce with a brush for glazing

Tips for the Best Applebee’s BBQ Sauce Copycat

  • Use real honey for that authentic sweetness and texture.
  • Simmer gently—don’t boil—to avoid burning the sugars.
  • Store leftovers in the fridge and reheat gently before using.
  • Experiment with smoked paprika or a dash of chipotle powder for extra smoky heat.

Frequently Asked Questions About Applebee’s Honey Barbecue Sauce Recipe

Is this recipe gluten-free? Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Always check labels to be sure.

Can I make this sauce ahead of time? Absolutely! It keeps well refrigerated for up to 2 weeks.

Can I double the recipe? Yes, just double all ingredients and adjust cooking time as needed.

How thick should the sauce be? It should be pourable but thick enough to coat your food nicely.

Homemade Applebee’s honey BBQ sauce in a bowl with brush for basting

How to Use Applebee’s BBQ Sauce

More Copycat Applebee’s Recipes

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Instant Pot Copycat Applebees French Onion Soup

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Applebee’s Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe (Copycat)

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Bottle of homemade Applebee’s honey BBQ sauce with a bowl of sauce for dipping

Applebee’s Honey BBQ Sauce Copycat Recipe

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Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 8 Servings

Description

Recreate Applebee’s Honey BBQ Sauce with this easy copycat recipe. Sweet, smoky, and perfect for chicken, ribs, wings, and dipping.

Ingredients 

  • 1 cup honey
  • 1 cup ketchup
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt

Instructions

  • In a medium saucepan, add all ingredients and whisk until fully combined.
  • Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce to low.
  • Simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened to your liking.
  • Let the sauce cool. Use immediately or store in an airtight jar in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Equipment

  • Saucepan
  • Whisk

Nutrition

Serving: 1Serving

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