Bourbon Glaze Recipe: A Sweet and Smoky Sauce You’ll Want on Everything

Bourbon glaze is a sticky, sweet, and slightly smoky sauce made using bourbon whiskey as the main flavor enhancer. It’s the secret behind many restaurant-style dishes like bourbon-glazed salmon, chicken, ribs, and even vegetables or grilled tofu.

Despite the alcohol in the recipe, most of it evaporates during cooking, leaving only a deep, rich flavor behind.


Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✅ Easy to make in 15 minutes
✅ Restaurant-quality flavor at home
✅ Works with chicken, steak, salmon, and even veggies
✅ Can be stored and reused for up to a week
✅ Smells incredible while cooking!

This glaze strikes the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and smoky — making it ideal for grilling season, dinner parties, or even casual weeknight meals.


Key Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you need to make a basic bourbon glaze:

🛒 Ingredients:

  • ½ cup bourbon (e.g. Jim Beam, Maker’s Mark)
  • ¼ cup brown sugar
  • ¼ cup soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tsp minced garlic
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • Pinch of black pepper or chili flakes (optional)

🥄 Optional Add-ins:

  • Dijon mustard (for tang)
  • Ketchup or tomato paste (for BBQ-style twist)
  • Cornstarch slurry (for thickening)

Step-by-Step Bourbon Glaze Recipe

🔥 Total Time: 15–20 minutes

Yields: About 1 cup glaze

👨‍🍳 Instructions:

Step 1: Simmer the Bourbon

In a small saucepan, add ½ cup bourbon. Simmer on medium heat for 2–3 minutes to cook off most of the alcohol.

Step 2: Add Sweet & Savory Ingredients

Add brown sugar, soy sauce, honey, vinegar, garlic, onion powder, and any optional spices. Stir well.

Step 3: Reduce the Sauce

Simmer the mixture on low-medium heat for 10–15 minutes until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon.

Step 4: (Optional) Thicken It

If you like a thicker glaze, mix 1 tsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water and stir into the glaze for 1–2 minutes.

Step 5: Let it Cool Slightly

Turn off the heat and allow the glaze to sit for a few minutes. It will continue to thicken as it cools.


Bourbon Glaze Variations and Tips

🔄 Recipe Variations:

  • Spicy Bourbon Glaze: Add 1 tsp Sriracha or red chili flakes
  • BBQ Bourbon Glaze: Add 1 tbsp ketchup and 1 tsp liquid smoke
  • Citrusy Twist: Add 1 tsp orange zest for extra freshness
  • Maple Bourbon Glaze: Use maple syrup instead of honey for deeper flavor

🔧 Pro Tips:

  • Don’t boil too aggressively — it may burn the sugar
  • Stir often while reducing to prevent sticking
  • Always use a clean spoon when storing leftovers

What to Use Bourbon Glaze On

This glaze is incredibly versatile. Here are some perfect pairings:

🍖 Meats:

  • Grilled or baked chicken
  • Bourbon glazed salmon
  • Pork chops or tenderloin
  • Glazed meatballs
  • BBQ ribs

🥦 Veggies:

  • Roasted carrots or Brussels sprouts
  • Glazed sweet potatoes
  • Grilled mushrooms or eggplant

🧀 Extras:

  • As a dipping sauce
  • On burgers or sliders
  • Drizzled over cornbread or savory waffles

Is Bourbon Glaze Safe for Kids?

Mostly yes. Alcohol in the bourbon cooks off during simmering, leaving behind flavor but very little to no alcohol content.

However:

  • If you’re concerned, simmer longer (15+ minutes)
  • Or use bourbon flavoring extract instead of real whiskey

How to Store It (Shelf Life Tips)

  • Let the glaze cool completely
  • Store in an airtight glass jar
  • Refrigerate for up to 7 days

Reheat before using again (microwave or stovetop).
Do not freeze as texture may break.


Where to Buy Bourbon Glaze in the USA

Don’t want to make it yourself? Try these popular store-bought options:

🛒 Best Brands:

  • TGI Friday’s Signature Bourbon Sauce
  • Stonewall Kitchen Bourbon Molasses BBQ Sauce
  • Buffalo Wild Wings Bourbon Honey Mustard

Available at:

  • Walmart
  • Amazon
  • Target
  • Whole Foods
  • Trader Joe’s (seasonal)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

❓ Can I make it without bourbon?

Yes! Use apple juice or non-alcoholic bourbon extract as a substitute.

❓ What type of bourbon is best?

A mid-range, smooth bourbon works great. Try Maker’s Mark, Evan Williams, or Jim Beam.

❓ Can I use this glaze on desserts?

Yes — drizzle over roasted nuts, grilled peaches, or even bread pudding for a bold, sweet finish.

❓ Does it taste like alcohol?

No. Once cooked, the alcohol burns off and you’re left with a rich, smoky-sweet flavor.


Final Thoughts

Bourbon glaze is one of those magical sauces that transforms simple food into something restaurant-worthy. Whether you’re grilling chicken or serving baked salmon, this sauce adds that perfect touch of bold sweetness and savory depth.

Try this easy homemade recipe today — and once you taste it, you’ll want to put it on everything.

If you’re into bold, nostalgic flavors, don’t miss our guide on Pickled Bologna — a retro Midwest classic that pairs surprisingly well with bourbon-glazed meats.

Hi, I’m Sarmad, a passionate food lover and home chef. Here, I share delicious and easy-to-follow recipes to bring joy to your kitchen. Let’s cook something amazing together!

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