I am not a BBQ authority like many folks on this board, but I like Gates' BBQ sauce and since you pointed out how HFCS is front and center, which is a peave of mine, I went out and grabbed this info for you in case you like their sauce too. With regard to using sugar -- I suggest pure cane sugar would make this recipe even tastier;
"This from the restaurant in KC. I got the recipe when Mr Gates was on Martha Stewart."
1 cup sugar
1/4 cup salt
2 tablespoons celery seeds
2 tablespoons ground cumin
2 tablespoons ground red pepper
2 tablespoons garlic powder
1 tablespoon chili powder
2 quarts ketchup
2 cups apple cider vinegar
1 1/2 teaspoons liquid smoke
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Directions:
1)In a small bowl, mix together sugar, salt, celery seed, cumin, red pepper, garlic powder, and chili powder.
2)Set aside.
3)In a large bowl, combine remaining ingredients.
4)Add dry ingredients, and mix well.
5)Serve warm or at room temperature.
6)Sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2 to 3 weeks or in freezer for up to 6 months.
Read more:
http://www.food.com/recipe/gates-sons-kc-bbq-sauce-16745?oc=linkback