Print

Perfect Bourbon Maple Glazed Baby Back Ribs Recipe Easy for Dads BBQ

bourbon maple glazed baby back ribs - featured image

A simple and delicious recipe for tender baby back ribs glazed with a sweet and smoky bourbon maple sauce, perfect for Father’s Day or any backyard BBQ.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 racks baby back ribs (about 2 to 2.5 pounds each)
  • 1/2 cup bourbon (120 ml)
  • 1/2 cup pure maple syrup (120 ml)
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar (50 g)
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C).
  2. Remove the silver skin membrane from the back of the ribs using a butter knife and your fingers.
  3. Mix salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and onion powder in a small bowl. Rub this seasoning mix all over both sides of the ribs.
  4. Place ribs in an oven-safe roasting pan or baking sheet, meaty side up. Drizzle with oil.
  5. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and cook in the oven for 2.5 hours.
  6. While ribs cook, prepare the glaze: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine bourbon, maple syrup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Stir occasionally and simmer until slightly thickened, about 10-12 minutes.
  7. Remove ribs from oven and increase oven temperature to 425°F (220°C). Brush ribs generously with the bourbon maple glaze on both sides.
  8. Return ribs to the oven uncovered for 15-20 minutes to caramelize the glaze, watching carefully to avoid burning.
  9. Let ribs rest for 10 minutes before slicing between the bones.

Notes

Remove the silver skin membrane for better flavor penetration and tenderness. Use foil to trap steam during slow cooking to keep ribs moist. Watch the glaze carefully during caramelization to prevent burning. For extra smoky flavor, add a few drops of liquid smoke to the glaze before reducing. Let ribs rest before slicing to lock in juices.

Nutrition

Keywords: bourbon ribs, maple glazed ribs, baby back ribs, BBQ ribs, Father's Day recipe, easy ribs, sweet and smoky ribs