Irresistible Apple Butter BBQ Ribs Recipe for BBQ Lovers

Recipe By:
Ruth
Updated:

Apple Butter BBQ Ribs Recipe is the ultimate culinary joyride that combines the rich sweetness of apple butter with smoky, tender ribs. Imagine biting into a rib so juicy it practically dances off the bone, coated in a sticky, flavorful glaze that could make even the pickiest eater do a happy dance. The sweet and tangy aroma wafts through your kitchen, making everyone wonder if you’ve summoned a barbecue wizard.

This dish isn’t just about satisfying your taste buds; it’s about creating unforgettable memories. Picture this: a sunny backyard gathering, laughter echoing as friends dig into these ribs while you bask in the glory of your culinary prowess. Whether it’s a summer cookout or a cozy family dinner, Apple Butter BBQ Ribs will steal the spotlight and leave everyone asking for seconds.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • The Apple Butter BBQ Ribs are incredibly easy to prepare and require minimal effort for maximum flavor
  • The unique blend of sweet apple butter with savory spices creates an explosion of tastes
  • Visually stunning with their glaze, these ribs will impress any guest at your table
  • Perfect for summer barbecues or cozy indoor meals, they adapt beautifully to any occasion

Ingredients for Apple Butter BBQ Ribs Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Pork Ribs: Choose baby back ribs for tenderness; they’re perfect for barbecuing and soaking up flavors.

  • Apple Butter: Use high-quality apple butter for that rich sweetness; homemade or store-bought works wonders.

  • BBQ Sauce: Go for your favorite brand; it adds depth to the flavor and complements the apple butter perfectly.

  • Garlic Powder: A must-have seasoning that enhances the savory profile of the ribs.

  • Onion Powder: This adds an aromatic sweetness; I love using fresh onion powder for more punch.

  • Cayenne Pepper: For those who like a little kick; adjust to your heat preference.

  • Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all other flavors; don’t skip these!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for Apple Butter BBQ Ribs Recipe

How to Make Apple Butter BBQ Ribs Recipe

Prepping Your Ribs

Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). While it warms up, gently rinse your pork ribs under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps remove any extra debris and ensures a better sear later on.

Seasoning Time

Generously rub salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper all over the ribs. Make sure every nook and cranny is covered because we want flavor galore! Let them sit for about 15 minutes to absorb those seasonings.

Making the Glaze

In a bowl, mix together apple butter and BBQ sauce until well combined. The sweet aroma should already get you excited! Taste it—add more cayenne if you’re feeling bold or more apple butter if you prefer sweeter ribs.

Baking Your Ribs

Place the seasoned ribs on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Brush a generous layer of that glorious apple butter glaze over the top. Cover tightly with foil and bake them in the preheated oven for about two hours.

Finishing Touches

After two hours, remove the foil carefully (watch out for that steam). Brush on another layer of glaze before returning the ribs to bake uncovered for an additional hour. This step caramelizes the sugars in the glaze—hello crispy edges!

Serving Up

Once done, let those beauties rest for about ten minutes before slicing into them. Serve with extra glaze on the side because why not? Watch as everyone dives in—these Apple Butter BBQ Ribs are bound to become a family favorite!

Now you’re ready to impress friends and family alike with this mouthwatering Apple Butter BBQ Ribs Recipe! Enjoy every juicy bite and remember: good food equals good times!

You Must Know

  • This Apple Butter BBQ Ribs Recipe offers more than just a delicious meal; it brings family and friends together
  • The sweet and tangy flavors create a memorable experience that will have everyone asking for seconds
  • Perfect for summer barbecues or cozy dinners

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating your ribs in the apple butter overnight to infuse maximum flavor. Sear them on high heat for a nice caramelization before slow-cooking them in the oven or on the grill for tender, fall-off-the-bone goodness.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap apple butter with peach or apricot preserves for a fruity twist. Experiment with spices like smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to add a kick, or mix in some Dijon mustard for an extra layer of flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, wrap them in foil and bake at 350°F until warmed through, retaining their juicy goodness.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • For the best flavor, marinate your ribs overnight to allow the apple butter to penetrate deeply
  • Avoid boiling ribs before grilling; it can dry them out
  • Always let cooked ribs rest to lock in moisture before slicing

The first time I made this Apple Butter BBQ Ribs Recipe, my family devoured every last bite. They even fought over the bones! It turned into one of our favorite family traditions during summer cookouts.

FAQs:

What are the key ingredients in the Apple Butter BBQ Ribs Recipe?

The Apple Butter BBQ Ribs Recipe features a delightful blend of flavors. Key ingredients include baby back ribs, apple butter, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and various spices like paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper. These components combine to create a sweet and tangy glaze that perfectly complements the tender meat. Using high-quality apple butter enhances the overall taste, making these ribs a favorite for gatherings and family dinners.

How long does it take to cook Apple Butter BBQ Ribs?

Cooking Apple Butter BBQ Ribs typically takes about 3 to 4 hours if you use a slow-cooking method. For best results, you should cook them low and slow at around 225°F (107°C). This method allows the meat to become incredibly tender while absorbing the flavorful marinade. If you’re short on time, you can also use an Instant Pot or pressure cooker, reducing the cooking time significantly while still achieving delicious results.

Can I make Apple Butter BBQ Ribs in advance?

Yes, you can prepare Apple Butter BBQ Ribs in advance. After cooking them, let the ribs cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to three days. When you are ready to serve, reheat them gently in the oven or on a grill until warmed through. This makes it convenient for meal prep or entertaining guests without stress.

What side dishes pair well with Apple Butter BBQ Ribs?

Apple Butter BBQ Ribs pair beautifully with various side dishes that complement their sweet and smoky flavor. Consider serving them with classic options like coleslaw, baked beans, or corn on the cob. Grilled vegetables or a fresh garden salad can also add a refreshing contrast. Don’t forget some cornbread or garlic bread to soak up any leftover sauce!

Conclusion for Apple Butter BBQ Ribs Recipe:

The Apple Butter BBQ Ribs Recipe is an excellent choice for anyone looking to impress at their next gathering. With simple yet flavorful ingredients like apple butter and spices, these ribs deliver mouthwatering results every time. Cooking them low and slow ensures they are juicy and tender, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether served with classic sides or enjoyed on their own, this recipe will undoubtedly become a favorite among family and friends!

Print

Apple Butter BBQ Ribs

Apple Butter BBQ Ribs are a flavorful fusion of sweet apple butter and smoky, tender pork ribs. This easy recipe guarantees juicy, fall-off-the-bone goodness, all enveloped in a delicious glaze that will have your guests reaching for seconds. Perfect for summer barbecues or cozy family dinners, you’ll create unforgettable moments around the table with these mouthwatering ribs.

  • Author: Jennifer
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 3 hours
  • Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs baby back pork ribs
  • 1 cup apple butter
  • 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (or to taste)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). Rinse and pat dry the pork ribs.
  2. Rub the ribs with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Let sit for 15 minutes.
  3. In a bowl, mix apple butter and BBQ sauce until well combined. Adjust seasoning if desired.
  4. Place seasoned ribs on a baking sheet lined with foil. Brush generously with the apple butter glaze.
  5. Cover with foil and bake for 2 hours. Remove foil, brush with more glaze, and bake uncovered for an additional hour until caramelized.
  6. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 rib (approximately 150g)
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 15g
  • Sodium: 550mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: For enhanced flavor, marinate the ribs in apple butter overnight. Experiment with peach or apricot preserves for a fruity twist or add Dijon mustard to the glaze for extra depth. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days.

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