This copycat McDonald's sweet-and-sour sauce combines apricot preserves, vinegar, and mustard into a smooth, tangy-sweet dip ready in under 10 minutes. The sauce thickens on the stovetop in just 1–2 minutes for that signature McDonald's texture.
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In a blender or food processor, combine all ingredients. Cover with the lid and blend until smooth.
Transfer the mixture to a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring the sauce to a boil and cook, stirring frequently, until thickened, about 1 to 2 minutes. Let cool. Editor's Tip: Don't walk away! This sweet sauce can burn if you don't keep an eye on it.
Serve with any kind of dippable snack, like chicken nuggets, egg rolls or one of these copycat McDonald's recipes. While sweet-and-sour sauce for dipping is typically enjoyed at room temperature or chilled, you can enjoy the sauce warm if you simply can't wait for it to cool completely.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or serve chilled within 1–2 weeks.
blender or food processor · small saucepan
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The recipe does not specify shelf life; use within 1–2 weeks and discard if discoloration or odor develops.
Yes. Blend and cook the sauce up to several days in advance, then reheat gently on the stovetop or serve chilled.
The cornstarch thickens the sauce as it boils. Cook for the full 1–2 minutes over medium heat while stirring, and do not walk away; the sauce can burn quickly.
Apricot preserves are central to the McDonald's flavor. Orange marmalade or peach preserves are closest alternatives, though the taste will differ slightly.
Yes. Serve with egg rolls, spring rolls, pork, fish, or any dippable snack. It can be enjoyed warm, at room temperature, or chilled.
