Espresso–Chocolate Balsamic BBQ Sauce

This rich, smoky BBQ sauce uses espresso or chocolate balsamic vinegar to add depth, balance sweetness, and create a bold, slow-simmered flavor that elevates classic barbecue. Espresso balsamic brings a deep, roasted edge that pairs beautifully with beef, while chocolate balsamic adds a subtle cocoa warmth perfect for pork or chicken. The result is a glossy, complex BBQ sauce that’s equally at home on ribs, pulled pork, grilled chicken, or burgers.

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Prep Time 5

Cook Time 20

Total Time 25

Course Lunch, Main Course

Cuisine American, BBQ

Servings 6

Ingredients

1 Cup Ketchup
1/2 Cup Espresso or Chocolate Balsamic Vinegart EVOO Marketplace
1/4 Cup Brown Sugar
2 Tbsp Tomato Paste
2 Tbsp Worcestershire Sauce
1 Tbsp Dijon Mustard
1 Tbsp Molasses
2 Cloves Garlic (minced)
1 Tsp Smoked Paprika
1/2 Tsp Chili Powder
1/2 Tsp Cayenne Pepper Optional
Salt & Pepper to Taste

Instructions

In a saucepan over medium heat, lightly sauté the garlic in a splash of olive oil for 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
Add ketchup, balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, tomato paste, Worcestershire, mustard, and molasses. Stir until smooth.
Add smoked paprika, chili powder, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper.
Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thick and glossy.
Too sharp? Add 1–2 tsp honey
Too sweet? Add a splash more balsamic
Want heat? Add chipotle powder or hot sauce

Notes

Espresso balsamic creates a bolder, smokier sauce ideal for brisket, ribs, and burgers.
Chocolate balsamic produces a softer, rounder flavor that pairs especially well with pork and chicken.
For a chef-style balance, use half espresso balsamic and half chocolate balsamic.

Serving Suggestions

Brush onto ribs or pulled pork during the final 20–30 minutes of cooking, glaze grilled chicken or wings in the last few minutes, or warm and serve as a finishing sauce for burgers and BBQ meatballs.

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This espresso–chocolate balsamic BBQ sauce is rich, smoky, and deeply flavorful, blending roasted coffee notes and subtle cocoa with classic barbecue spices for a bold, glossy sauce.