Irresistible Apple Butter BBQ Ribs Recipe for Summer BBQs

Indulging in a plate of tender, juicy ribs slathered with a rich Apple Butter BBQ sauce is like receiving a warm hug from your kitchen. The sweet and tangy flavors meld together beautifully, creating a mouthwatering experience that lingers long after the last bite. Just imagine the aroma wafting through your home, enticing family and friends to gather around the dinner table.

As I remember my childhood summer barbecues, the sizzle of ribs on the grill and laughter among family brings a smile to my face. This Apple Butter BBQ Ribs Recipe has been a staple at our gatherings, evoking memories of joy and good food. Whether it’s a weekend cookout or a cozy family dinner, these ribs promise to deliver an unforgettable flavor experience that you simply can’t resist.

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; spare ribs are also great if you prefer more meat.

• Apple Butter: Look for high-quality apple butter without added sugars for the best flavor.

• Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought or homemade sauce; it should complement the apple butter well.

• Smoked Paprika: This adds depth; opt for sweet or hot according to your preference.

• Garlic Powder: Fresh garlic is lovely too, but garlic powder makes it easier and quicker.

• Black Pepper: Coarsely ground black pepper adds a nice kick; adjust to taste.

• Salt: Essential for enhancing flavors; kosher salt works best in this recipe.

• Cider Vinegar: A splash helps balance sweetness; use unfiltered cider vinegar for more flavor complexity.

For the Sauce:

• Honey: Adds extra sweetness; use local honey if possible for better flavor.

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

How to Make Apple Butter BBQ Ribs Recipe

Preparing the Ribs

Begin by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). While it’s warming up, remove the silver skin from the ribs for better texture and flavor absorption. Pat them dry with paper towels to ensure they get that perfect caramelization later.

Creating the Spice Rub

In a bowl, mix together smoked paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Generously coat both sides of the ribs with this aromatic blend, giving them a good massage as if you’re preparing them for their spa day. Let them rest while you prepare your sauce.

Mixing the Sauce

In another bowl, combine apple butter, barbecue sauce, honey, and cider vinegar until smooth. Taste it—this is where you can adjust sweetness or spice levels according to your liking. You want that perfect blend of sweet and tangy!

Baking Time

Place the seasoned ribs on a baking sheet lined with foil (for easy cleanup) and cover tightly with another piece of foil. Bake these beauties in your preheated oven for about two hours until they’re tender enough to make you swoon.

Glazing with Flavor

After two hours, remove the foil and brush on half of your apple butter barbecue sauce mixture generously over each rib rack. Return them to the oven uncovered and bake for an additional 30 minutes at 350°F (175°C). This step caramelizes those sugars into sticky goodness!

Finishing Touches

Once out of the oven, let your ribs rest for about ten minutes before slicing them into portions. Drizzle any remaining sauce over each piece as you serve—trust me; no one will complain about extra sauce! Enjoy these succulent Apple Butter BBQ Ribs with friends and family while watching their delighted faces light up!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve tender, juicy ribs, start by seasoning them generously. While they marinate, prepare your grill or oven. Cook the ribs low and slow to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to switch up the spices or add a splash of hot sauce for a kick. You can even experiment with different types of apple butter for unique flavor profiles. The possibilities are endless!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350 degrees until warmed through, ensuring they stay juicy.

Sometimes I think my friends keep coming back just for these Apple Butter BBQ Ribs. One time, I made them for a small gathering, and everyone ended up asking for seconds—and thirds!

FAQs :

What is the best type of ribs for the Apple Butter BBQ Ribs Recipe?

When choosing ribs for the Apple Butter BBQ Ribs Recipe, baby back ribs are often preferred due to their tenderness and flavor. However, spare ribs also work well as they are meatier and have a richer taste. Both types benefit from the sweet and tangy apple butter glaze, enhancing their natural flavors. Marinating the ribs overnight will yield even better results, allowing the flavors to penetrate deeply into the meat.

How long should I cook my ribs using this recipe?

For optimal results with the Apple Butter BBQ Ribs Recipe, slow-cooking is key. Cook your ribs at 225°F (107°C) for approximately 4 to 5 hours. This low and slow method breaks down tough connective tissues, making the meat tender and juicy. Always check for doneness by ensuring that the meat pulls away from the bone easily. A good rule of thumb is to use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach around 190°F (88°C).

Can I make Apple Butter BBQ Sauce from scratch?

Absolutely! Making apple butter BBQ sauce from scratch can elevate your Apple Butter BBQ Ribs Recipe. Combine unsweetened apple butter, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and spices like garlic powder and smoked paprika in a saucepan. Simmer until thickened, then brush it on your ribs during the last hour of cooking for a deliciously rich flavor. Homemade sauce can enhance your dish’s freshness and make it uniquely yours.

What side dishes pair well with Apple Butter BBQ Ribs?

Apple Butter BBQ Ribs pair wonderfully with various side dishes that complement their sweet and smoky flavor profile. Consider serving classic coleslaw for crunch and acidity or cornbread for a comforting touch. Grilled vegetables or baked beans also work well, adding depth to your meal. These sides not only balance the richness of the ribs but also create a satisfying barbecue experience.

Conclusion for Apple Butter BBQ Ribs Recipe :

The Apple Butter BBQ Ribs Recipe offers a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors that will impress any barbecue lover. By choosing quality ribs and slow-cooking them at low temperatures, you ensure tenderness in every bite. The homemade apple butter sauce adds a unique twist that elevates this dish further. Whether you serve it at a family gathering or an outdoor cookout, this recipe guarantees satisfaction for everyone at your table. Enjoy these delicious ribs with complementary sides for a complete meal experience!

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Apple Butter BBQ Ribs

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 0 hours
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Apple Butter BBQ Ribs are a delightful blend of tender pork and a rich, sweet-savory sauce. This easy recipe brings nostalgic summer barbecue vibes to your table with juicy ribs coated in a luscious apple butter and barbecue glaze. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners, these ribs are sure to impress with their mouthwatering flavor and aroma.

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Ingredients

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• 2 lbs baby back ribs
• 1 cup unsweetened apple butter
• 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp cider vinegar
• 2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp kosher salt

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). Remove the silver skin from the ribs and pat them dry.
2. In a bowl, mix smoked paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Rub this spice mix generously onto both sides of the ribs.
3. In another bowl, combine apple butter, barbecue sauce, honey, and cider vinegar until smooth.
4. Place the ribs on a foil-lined baking sheet; cover tightly with foil and bake for 2 hours.
5. Remove foil, brush half the sauce over the ribs, and bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for an additional 30 minutes.
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing; serve with remaining sauce.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 rib (approx. 170g)
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 28g
• Sodium: 640mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 85mg