Does buffalo sauce have sugar? A complete nutritional analysis

December 19, 2025 •

4 min read

While many assume all condiments contain hidden sugars, a core component of traditional buffalo sauce is a cayenne-based hot sauce, which often contains zero carbohydrates and sugars per serving. However, the total sugar content can vary dramatically depending on the recipe or brand, with some adding sweeteners for a milder flavor profile.

Quick Summary

The sugar content in buffalo sauce depends on the brand and recipe. Many classic versions are very low in sugar, while others add sweeteners. Consumers should always check the nutrition label to understand the product's exact composition.

Key Points

Depends on the Brand: The sugar content in buffalo sauce varies widely, from zero in many classic preparations to a few grams in sweeter, creamier versions.
Traditional is Often Sugar-Free: The original, simple recipe combining hot sauce and butter contains virtually no sugar.
Check Labels for Additives: Many store-bought sauces add sweeteners like honey, sugar, or corn syrup to balance the heat.
DIY is Control: Making buffalo sauce at home gives you complete control over the ingredients, ensuring it is sugar-free.
Consider Other Factors: While sugar might be low, be aware of potentially high sodium levels in commercial buffalo sauces.
Capsaicin Benefits: The active ingredient in hot sauce, capsaicin, is associated with health benefits, including boosted metabolism and anti-inflammatory properties.

The Composition of Classic Buffalo Sauce

At its heart, buffalo sauce is a straightforward mixture, originating from a simple recipe created in Buffalo, New York. The two foundational ingredients are cayenne pepper hot sauce and melted butter. The tangy, spicy kick comes from the vinegar-based hot sauce, while the butter adds a rich, emulsified creaminess that mellows the heat. This simple, traditional formula typically contains minimal to no sugar. The original Frank's RedHot, a staple for many buffalo wing recipes, is known for being sugar-free.

Key Ingredients and Their Role

Cayenne Pepper Sauce: Provides the foundational heat and tangy flavor. Traditional sauces like Frank's RedHot contain aged cayenne peppers, vinegar, water, and salt, with very few, if any, carbs or sugars.
Melted Butter: Adds richness and body, helping to create a smooth, emulsified sauce that clings to wings and other foods. Butter is a fat and contains no sugar.
Added Sugar or Sweeteners: Some recipes, especially store-bought, introduce sweeteners to balance the heat and acidity. Ingredients like brown sugar, honey, corn syrup, or molasses are often used for this purpose. This is where the sugar content can increase significantly.
Other Flavorings: Additional ingredients might include garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, or modified corn starch to thicken the sauce.

Popular Brands: A Comparative Look at Sugar Content

Navigating the grocery store aisle can be tricky, as not all buffalo sauces are created equal. The sugar content can range from zero to several grams per serving. Always check the nutrition facts panel to make an informed choice based on your dietary needs.

Comparison Table: Sugar in Buffalo Sauce


Brand	Frank's RedHot Buffalo Wings Sauce	Sweet Baby Ray's Buffalo Wing Sauce	Frank's RedHot Squeeze Creamy Buffalo	Homemade Low-Sugar Recipe
Sugar per Serving (approx. 1 Tbsp)	0g	1g	<1g	~0-1g (depending on ingredients)
Added Sugar	0g	1g	Present	Optional
Typical Ingredients	Hot sauce (cayenne, vinegar, water, salt, garlic powder), butter flavor, paprika, xanthan gum	Cayenne pepper sauce, margarine, sugar, salt, paprika, xanthan gum	Hot sauce (cayenne, vinegar, water, salt, garlic), water, soybean oil, sugar, corn starch	Hot sauce, butter, garlic powder, vinegar, optional sweetener
Key Takeaway	Truly sugar-free, relies on the classic, simple formulation.	Contains added sugar for a slightly sweeter, milder flavor.	Uses sugar and oil for a creamy texture.	Customizable, allows total control over all ingredients.

Making Your Own Low-Sugar Buffalo Sauce

If you want full control over your ingredients or want to guarantee a sugar-free outcome, making buffalo sauce at home is a simple and rewarding process. You can easily adjust the heat and tanginess to your preference.

Here is a simple, low-carb recipe for homemade buffalo sauce:

Gather ingredients: 1/2 cup Frank's RedHot Original Sauce (or another sugar-free hot sauce), 1/4 cup unsalted butter, 1 tablespoon white vinegar, and 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder.
Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
Whisk in the hot sauce, vinegar, and garlic powder until well combined and smooth.
Heat gently for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld, but do not bring to a boil.
Remove from heat and use immediately or store in the refrigerator.

Health Considerations Beyond Sugar

While the sugar content is important, particularly for those on a keto diet or managing diabetes, it's also worth noting other nutritional aspects of buffalo sauce. The sodium content can be very high in many brands, due to the high salt content in the base hot sauce and additional flavorings. Diabetics can enjoy buffalo sauce, especially low-sugar options, but should monitor their portion size and overall carbohydrate intake, particularly if paired with carb-heavy foods like breaded chicken. For those concerned about sodium, low-sodium hot sauces and homemade versions can offer a good alternative. Capsaicin, the compound that gives hot peppers their spice, has been associated with health benefits like increased metabolism and decreased inflammation. Healthline provides further insight into the benefits of hot sauce consumption.

Conclusion: The Verdict on Buffalo Sauce and Sugar

In short, whether buffalo sauce has sugar is not a simple yes or no question—it entirely depends on the brand and recipe. Many classic, simple formulations contain zero or negligible amounts of sugar, making them an excellent choice for low-carb diets. However, other versions, especially those labeled as 'creamy' or 'mild,' may add sweeteners to achieve their desired flavor profile. The best practice is to always read the nutrition label before buying. For complete control, crafting a homemade version with a sugar-free hot sauce is the best option. Ultimately, enjoying buffalo sauce in moderation and being mindful of the specific product's ingredients is the key to incorporating it into a healthy diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, according to its nutrition label, Frank's RedHot Buffalo Wings Sauce contains 0 grams of sugar and 0 grams of added sugar per serving.

Some buffalo sauce recipes and brands add sweeteners like brown sugar, honey, or molasses to create a milder, sweeter flavor profile that balances the heat and tanginess of the hot sauce.

Yes, people with diabetes can consume buffalo sauce, but they should choose brands with low or zero sugar and be mindful of portion sizes. Homemade, sugar-free versions are also an excellent option.

The main difference is the addition of a fat, typically melted butter, to a cayenne-based hot sauce to create buffalo sauce. This emulsification process gives buffalo sauce its signature richness and smoothness.

Yes, many traditional, low-carb buffalo sauces made primarily from cayenne pepper sauce, vinegar, and butter are keto-friendly. Always check the nutrition label for sugar content, and consider brands like Frank's RedHot Buffalo Wings Sauce.

To reduce sugar in a homemade recipe, use a sugar-free hot sauce and avoid adding any sweeteners. Rely on the natural flavors of the hot sauce, butter, and garlic powder.

Yes, many commercial buffalo sauces can have a relatively high sodium content due to the salt in the base hot sauce and other flavorings. Those monitoring sodium should check the label and opt for low-sodium hot sauces if making a homemade version.