My 5-Minute Healthy’ish Bourbon Sauce is rich, buttery, and made with better-for-you ingredients. This quick, boozy topping is perfect for drizzling over ice cream, baked or fresh fruit, yogurt, or healthier desserts for an instant flavor boost!

5 Minute Healthy’ish Bourbon Sauce

This healthy dessert sauce is almost too easy to make, and that’s part of the magic. Quick, simple, and full of flavor, it’s a sweet topping you’ll reach for again and again. I probably came up with it on the fly when I was low on ingredients, and honestly, I’m glad I did.

If you’re like me, you try to eat well but still crave a sugary treat most days. This homemade sauce strikes a balance between wholesome and satisfying without being too over-the-top indulgent.

I’ve learned that completely cutting out certain foods feels more like punishment than discipline. That’s why I believe in moderation. Some weeks, I stick to an 80/20 balance. Other times, it’s more like 70/30. As long as nutrient-dense foods make up most of my meals, I consider that a win.

That’s where this sauce comes in. With just three ingredients, it’s simpler than other recipes. My 5-Minute Healthy’ish Bourbon Sauce is decadent, gooey, buttery, and of course, bourbon-y. I truly hope it becomes a favorite in your kitchen. It’s definitely a staple in mine.

HOW I MADE-OVER THIS SAUCE:

Most traditional bourbon sauces rely on heavy cream and refined sugar, but I don’t miss either in my version. I skip the cream and swap in coconut palm sugar instead. Yes, it’s still sugar, but it has a lower glycemic index than white sugar and offers nutrients like zinc, calcium, and electrolytes that help support hydration. That’s why I use it in so many of my recipes. I also stick to grass-fed butter, which is higher in omega-3s and vitamin K2 compared to conventional butter. It’s the only kind I use!

This recipe is nut-free, gluten-free, refined-sugar-free, egg-free, soy-free, paleo, grain-free, and vegetarian.

HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL NEED:

(Use organic ingredients when possible)

Grass-fed salted butter
Coconut palm sugar
Bourbon
Salt, if needed
Coconut milk, optional

THIS IS HOW YOU’LL MAKE IT:

Again, it’s almost embarrassing how easy this sauce is to make. Ready? Let’s do this!

Add grass-fed butter (I like Kerrygold) to a small pot over low heat. Once it starts melting, whisk in the coconut palm sugar and let it dissolve. Cook for another 1–2 minutes, then remove from the heat and stir in your favorite bourbon. Whisk it well, then return it to the stove for another minute. And that’s it. I told you it was easy!

Let it cool slightly, then give it a taste. I use salted butter, but if you only have unsalted, add a pinch of salt. It enhances the sweetness and brings out the flavors. This sauce is delicious as is, but if you want a creamy texture, stir in a splash of coconut or almond milk. I love coconut, so that’s what I'd use. If coconut isn’t your thing, any milk works.

Because of the coconut palm sugar, the sauce may have a slightly gritty texture. It doesn’t bother me, but if that’s not your cup of tea, a quick spin in the food processor or blender will give it a super-fine texture. No time for that? Try using maple syrup instead!

Now, pour this sauce over your favorite treats and enjoy!

SERVING SUGGESTIONS:

Use this sauce on just about anything: healthier or homemade ice cream, cakes, yogurt parfaits, pancakes, apples, bananas, and more. Get creative with it!

I’m planning to try it on baked wings soon for that perfect salty-sweet combo. If you beat me to it, drop a comment and let me know how it turned out!

SUBSTITUTIONS, TIPS, AND NOTES:

I haven’t made this with any subs, but pure maple syrup should work well in place of the coconut sugar.  Let me know in the comments how it works out for you!

STORAGE AND LEFTOVERS:

Store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.  To reheat, warm it on the stove for a few minutes or microwave in 10-second intervals until pourable.

NUTRITIONAL VALUES:

I don’t include nutritional values in my recipes because I believe in intuitive eating and balanced nutrition. Since ingredient brands can vary, the numbers aren’t always consistent. If you’d like a more accurate breakdown, I recommend entering this recipe into MyFitnessPal or a similar tracker.

For more delicious Dips, Dressings, & Sauce ideas, check these out!

4 Sneaky Roasted Veggie & Garlic Ranch Yogurt Dip
The Best Veggie-Packed Game Day Guac

For more great Dessert ideas, check these out!

Refined Sugar-Free Warm Winter Berry Compote
Nutritious Coconutty Coffee Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal Bake
Creamy Dreamy Piña Colada Mojito Lite Ice Cream
Ninja Creami Blueberry Coconut Cheesecake Protein Ice Cream

If you make this recipe, I’d love it if you left a comment and star rating below! And don’t forget to tag me on Instagram so I can see your creation. Feel free to reach out with any questions, and I’ll do my best to help!

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