These sweet and sticky BBQ ribs are a true crowd-pleaser! Each bite is packed with flavor, thanks to a delicious mix of spices and a yummy barbecue sauce that makes them finger-licking good.
Honestly, what’s better than falling-off-the-bone tender ribs? They’re great for a cookout or a cozy night in. I love serving them with coleslaw and corn on the cob—it’s a summer party on a plate!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Baby Back Ribs: These are my favorite for their tenderness and flavor. If you prefer a different cut, spare ribs work well, but they take a bit longer to cook.
Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness and helps with caramelization. You can substitute with coconut sugar or maple syrup if needed, but steer clear of white sugar, as it won’t give the right texture.
Smoked Paprika: It gives a lovely smokey flavor to the ribs. If you’re out, regular paprika or chili powder can work in a pinch, but you’ll miss that smoke element.
Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought sauce or whip up a quick homemade version with ketchup, vinegar, and spices. Just ensure it’s a sauce you love!
How Can I Remove the Silver Skin for Tender Ribs?
Removing the silver skin is crucial for tender ribs. It’s a thin, tough membrane that can toughen the meat. Here’s a simple way to do it:
- Flip the ribs meat-side down and locate the silver skin on the back.
- Take a sharp knife and gently slide it under the membrane at one end. Be careful not to cut into the meat.
- Once you have a good grip, use a paper towel to pull it off. It gives better traction and helps keep your hands clean.
Doing this step right will make your ribs much more enjoyable to eat!
Sweet and Sticky BBQ Ribs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Ribs:
- 2 racks of pork baby back ribs (about 2-3 pounds each)
For the Spice Rub:
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
For the BBQ Sauce:
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15-20 minutes of active prep time and approximately 2.5 to 3 hours of cooking time in the oven. After that, you’ll grill or broil the ribs for an additional 10-14 minutes, making it a great choice for a leisurely weekend meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 275°F (135°C). This low and slow cooking method will make your ribs tender and delicious.
2. Prepare the Ribs:
Turn the ribs over so the bony side is facing up. Locate the silver skin, a thin membrane on the back. Use a sharp knife to gently slide under the membrane. Pull it off carefully using a paper towel for better grip. This step is important to ensure your ribs are tender!
3. Make the Spice Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix these ingredients together until well combined.
4. Apply the Spice Rub:
Rub the spice mixture all over both sides of the ribs, ensuring they are evenly coated. This adds loads of flavor!
5. Wrap and Bake:
Wrap each rack of ribs tightly in aluminum foil and place them on a baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 2.5 to 3 hours, until the ribs are tender and the meat is pulling away from the bones.
6. Make the BBQ Sauce:
While the ribs are baking, prepare the BBQ sauce. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the barbecue sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir and heat the mixture until it’s warm and slightly thickened, about 5 minutes.
7. Brush with Sauce:
Once the ribs are done in the oven, carefully unwrap the foil. Brush the ribs generously with the sweet and sticky BBQ sauce, making sure to cover all sides.
8. Grill or Broil:
Now, preheat your grill or set your oven to broil. Grill or broil the ribs for 5 to 7 minutes on each side, basting with additional sauce as they cook. Watch closely to prevent burning! You want to caramelize the sauce for that sticky goodness.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the ribs are nicely caramelized, remove them from the heat. Let them rest for a few minutes before cutting between the bones. Serve them with extra BBQ sauce on the side, and enjoy your sweet and sticky BBQ ribs!
FAQ About Sweet and Sticky BBQ Ribs
Can I Use Other Types of Ribs?
Absolutely! While baby back ribs are tender and delicious, you can also use spare ribs or St. Louis-style ribs. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly due to the size and thickness of the meat.
What If I Don’t Have Brown Sugar?
No problem! You can substitute brown sugar with coconut sugar or even white sugar mixed with a little molasses (1 tablespoon of molasses per cup of white sugar) to mimic the flavor and moisture of brown sugar.
How Do I Store Leftover Ribs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap them in foil and warm them in the oven at 250°F (120°C) until heated through, or reheat gently in the microwave!
Can I Make These Ribs in a Slow Cooker?
Yes! If you prefer using a slow cooker, season the ribs with the spice rub, then place them in the cooker with a bit of the BBQ sauce and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Finish them on a grill or under the broiler with extra sauce for that caramelized finish!
