Everything You Need to Know About McDonald’s New Limited-Edition Sauce
McDonald’s just dropped a game-changing new sauce that has everyone talking – the Special Edition Gold Sauce. If you’re wondering what all the buzz is about, here’s everything you need to know.
What Exactly is McDonald’s Gold Sauce?
McDonald’s Special Edition Gold Sauce is a new limited-edition sauce that launched nationwide on September 3, 2025. According to McDonald’s official description,
it’s “a harmonious blend of vinegary North Carolina BBQ sauce, infused with notes of honey, smoke, and mustard.”
What Does It Taste Like?
The Gold Sauce delivers a unique flavor profile that combines:
- Tangy vinegar base (inspired by North Carolina BBQ)
- Sweet honey notes
- Smoky undertones
- Mustard kick
Food reviewers describe it as slightly more vinegar-forward than similar sauces, giving it a distinctive tang that pairs perfectly with chicken. Many fans say it tastes like a perfect mixture of barbecue sauce and honey mustard – eliminating the need to mix sauces yourself.
How Does It Compare to Chick-fil-A Sauce?
This is the big question everyone’s asking! While the Gold Sauce has been compared to Chick-fil-A Sauce (which also features mustard and smoky notes), there’s a key difference:
McDonald’s Gold Sauce lacks ranch – which is a key ingredient in Chick-fil-A Sauce. The Gold Sauce is more vinegar-forward, giving it a different flavor profile that stands on its own. Many reviewers say it’s just as good, if not better, than the famous Chick-fil-A Sauce.
Where Can You Get It?
The Gold Sauce is available in four ways at participating McDonald’s locations:
- Special Edition Gold McCrispy Sandwich – McCrispy filet with applewood smoked bacon, crinkle-cut pickles, and Gold Sauce on a potato roll
- Deluxe Special Edition Gold McCrispy Sandwich – Same as above but with shredded lettuce and tomato slices
- Special Edition Gold Snack Wrap – McCrispy strips, shredded cheese, and lettuce drizzled with Gold Sauce
- McCrispy Strips – Served with a side of Gold Sauce for dipping
Bonus: You can also request the Gold Sauce as a dipping sauce for any menu item, including Happy Meals!
What Are Fans Saying?
Early reviews are mostly positive:
- Many fans say they “loved it” and call it “absolutely amazing”
- One TikTok reviewer said it’s “basically a mixture of barbecue sauce and honey mustard” but saves you the trouble of mixing them yourself
- Some fans suggest McDonald’s should add actual gold flakes to match the name
- A few reviewers called it “nothing special,” but most agree it’s a solid addition to the sauce lineup
How Long Will It Be Available?
The Gold Sauce is a limited-time offering, so don’t wait too long to try it! McDonald’s hasn’t specified an end date, but limited-edition sauces typically stick around for a few weeks to a couple of months.
Why Did McDonald’s Create This Sauce?
This launch is part of McDonald’s broader strategy to boost its chicken menu and compete in the growing chicken market. The chain has been expanding its chicken offerings with successful items like McCrispy Strips and the return of Snack Wraps, which have already helped drive sales and increase customer traffic.
The Bottom Line
McDonald’s Gold Sauce is a tangy, sweet, and smoky sauce that brings a unique North Carolina BBQ-inspired flavor to the fast-food giant’s menu. Whether you’re a sauce enthusiast or just curious about the latest fast-food trend, it’s worth trying while it’s available – especially if you’re a fan of that perfect sweet-and-tangy combination that makes chicken dishes shine.
Have you tried McDonald’s new Gold Sauce yet? Let us know what you think in the comments!
Last modified: September 4, 2025
