In this homemade vegan bbq sauce recipe, I use maple syrup so it stays fully vegan. But there are many other ways to get that level of sweet you like in your bbq sauce. Molasses, brown rice syrup, coconut syrup, coconut sugar, or cane sugar are all good options. We all have different likes when it comes to bbq sauce. Some like it sweet, others tangy and then there is the level of spice. This version is that perfect medium that we love. Always feel free to adjust the ingredients to get the perfect version for you!