If you are looking for a BBQ sauce that has less sugar and calories, then Walden Farms BBQ Sauce could be the first name that comes to your mind. But is it really safe?
There is always a question that remains. For that reason, today we are going to share a homemade BBQ sauce that is similar to Walden Farms BBQ Sauce. Whether you want to burn calories, manage diabetes, or follow a keto plan, this sauce will be best for you.
So, without any further delay, let’s move to the health-conscious BBQ sauce recipe.

How Does This Walden Farms-Inspired BBQ Sauce Taste?
This sauce has a sweet and tangy flavor with a nice smoky touch, and it tastes almost similar to Walden Farms BBQ Sauce. This sauce is very smooth, rich, and low-spicy. It is perfect for those who love deep BBQ flavor without the extra sugar or calories. This sugar-free BBQ sauce is ideal for grilled chicken, burgers, ribs, or as a dip for vegetables.
Ingredients You Need To Make a Sauce Like Walden Farms BBQ Sauce?
There are no rare ingredients used to make this sauce. In fact, you need almost the same ingredients that are used in Walden Farm’s barbecue sauce. Now, take a look at the list below and arrange them.
- Ketchup (1 Cup)
You should use sugar-free Ketchup if possible. This mixture is the primary ingredient in the sauce, resulting in a rich and smooth texture.
- Apple Cider Vinegar (1/4 Cup)
This will add a tangy kick and balance the sweetness. Not only that, but it also helps preserve the sauce naturally.
- Brown Sugar Substitute (1/2 Cup Packed)
You can use erythritol, monk fruit, or a combination of both for this keto-friendly barbecue sauce. This will add a sweetness to the BBQ sauce without raising blood sugar.
- Molasses (2 Tablespoons)
To match the rich flavor of the original, a small amount is sufficient. This will add depth and a smoky sweetness to the sauce.
- Worcestershire Sauce (1 Tablespoon)
This ingredient adds a deep, savory flavor that brings everything together, giving the sauce a rich, bold taste that feels like it has been slow-cooked for hours.
- Yellow Mustard (1 Tablespoon)
It will add a mild spice and tang. This will grow the overall brightness of the sauce.
- Garlic Powder (1 Teaspoon)
Garlic will add a gentle, warm flavor that complements and balances the flavors of other spices.
- Onion Powder (1 Teaspoon)
It adds a mild sweetness and savory flavor to balance out the vinegar.
- Smoked Paprika (1 Teaspoon)
It adds a smoky flavor to the sauce. Moreover, the rich red color of paprika is essential for that classic BBQ vibe.
- Black Pepper (1/2 Teaspoon)
Just add a little bit of black pepper for heat and sharpness.
- Salt (To Taste)
This will balance out the sweetness and increase the taste of the sauce.
- Water (1/4 Cup, Adjust As Needed)
This one is to control the thickness of the sauce.
- Hot Sauce (A Few Drops, Optional)
If you want to make it spicier, then add a few drops.
How To Make A BBQ Sauce Similar To Walden Farms?
Well, we hope you have all the ingredients. To make a perfect calorie-free barbecue glaze, read the steps below very carefully at first, then start the procedure.
Step 1: Heat The Base
Take a medium-sized saucepan. Add 1 cup of ketchup and 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar. Then stir it gently over medium heat.
Step 2: Add The Sweetness
Now, mix in 1/2 cup of erythritol, monk fruit, or a combination with 2 tablespoons of molasses. After that, stir until everything melts together and looks smooth.
Step 3: Build The Flavor
Add 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce and 1 tablespoon of mustard. These two ingredients will bring out the bold, tangy flavor of BBQ sauce.
Step 4: Spice it Up
Add garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Stir it well so the spices will mix properly.
Step 5: Adjust The Texture
Add about 1/4 cup of water, slowly. Then stir and see how thick it is. If it is too thick, then add a bit more water. Let it cook for a long time if it’s too thick.
Step 6: Add Hot Sauce (Optional)
If you like a little bit of spice, then add a few drops of hot sauce. It is totally up to your taste.
Step 7: Simmer Gently
Now turn the heat to low and let it cook for 15–20 minutes. Stir the mixture every few minutes to prevent it from sticking or burning.
Step 8: Taste The Sauce
Taste the sauce before you finish. If anything needs more, then add it.
Is Walden Farms BBQ Sauce Really Zero Calories?
Yes, the original Walden Farms BBQ Sauce is known as a zero-calorie BBQ sauce. Which means each serving has less than 5 calories. That is enough for food labeling rules to allow it to be called “zero calorie.”
However, our inspired version is not completely zero, but it is still very low in calories, especially if you use sugar-free ketchup and sweeteners like monk fruit or erythritol, then you can consider it a zero-calorie sauce.
Can You Use Walden Farms Sauce on a Keto or Diabetic Diet?
Absolutely, the original Walden Farms BBQ Sauce is a good option for people on keto or managing diabetes because it is sugar-free and low-calorie. However, there may still be some questions due to the use of chemicals and preservatives in bottled sauce.

Walden Farms BBQ Sauce
Ingredients
- 1/2 Cup Unsalted Butter
- 2 Tbsp Lemon Juice Fresh
- 1 Tbsp Lemon Zest
- 1-1.5 Tsp Black Pepper
- 1 Tsp Garlic Powder
- 1 Tsp Onion Powder
- 1 Tbsp Honey Optional
- 1 Tbsp Olive Oil
- Salt As Per Taste
- A Pinch Red Pepper Flakes Optional
Instructions
- Add ketchup and apple cider vinegar to a saucepan and stir on medium heat.
- Mix in brown sugar substitute and molasses until smooth.
- Add Worcestershire sauce and mustard, stirring well.
- Add all spices and seasonings (garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt).
- Pour in water to get your desired thickness. Add hot sauce if you want extra heat.
- Simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Taste and adjust the sweetness or tang as needed.
- Once thickened, cool and store in an airtight jar in the fridge. Stays fresh for up to 2 weeks.
Nutrition
Conclusion
Making your own Walden Farms BBQ Sauce-inspired recipe is a very easy and healthy way to enjoy barbecue again. It is loaded with flavor and perfect for all kinds of diets, from keto to diabetic-friendly.
So, starting today, you don’t need to miss out on delicious BBQ just because you’re cutting calories. Whether you are grilling chicken, tossing a salad, or baking meatballs, this calorie-free condiment will be best for you. Try this homemade recipe and enjoy a guilt-free grilling sauce back on your plate.