Get ready to savor the finger-licking goodness of Honey Bourbon Ribs—an irresistible combination of fall-off-the-bone tenderness and a sweet, smoky glaze. This recipe features juicy pork ribs generously seasoned with a bold spice rub made from paprika, garlic powder, and a hint of cayenne for a subtle kick. The real star, however, is the luscious honey bourbon glaze, crafted with a rich blend of honey, brown sugar, and bourbon, perfectly balanced by tangy apple cider vinegar and umami-packed soy and Worcestershire sauces. Slowly baked to perfection, then caramelized in the oven or on the grill, these ribs deliver a sticky, charred finish that’ll have everyone reaching for seconds. Perfect for BBQs, game day, or a comforting weekend dinner, Honey Bourbon Ribs are a must-try for lovers of hearty, flavor-packed meals.
Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C).
In a small bowl, mix together the dry spices: salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
Pat the racks of ribs dry with a paper towel, and then rub both sides generously with the spice mixture. Let the ribs rest for 10 minutes to absorb the spices.
Wrap the ribs tightly in aluminum foil and place them on a baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 3 hours, or until the ribs are tender and the meat easily pulls away from the bone.
While the ribs are baking, prepare the honey bourbon glaze. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine honey, bourbon, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and olive oil. Stir well to combine.
Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
After 3 hours of baking, remove the ribs from the oven and carefully unpack the foil. Be cautious of hot steam.
Brush the ribs generously with the honey bourbon glaze on both sides.
Increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) or preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
Bake the glazed ribs uncovered in the oven for an additional 15 minutes, or grill them for 5-7 minutes per side, basting with more glaze until caramelized and sticky.
Remove the ribs from the heat and let them rest for 5 minutes before slicing into individual portions.
Serve the honey bourbon ribs warm with additional glaze on the side, if desired. Enjoy!
Calories |
6945 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 496.9 g | 637% | |
| Saturated Fat | 176.5 g | 882% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 1880 mg | 627% | |
| Sodium | 8240 mg | 358% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 175.2 g | 64% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.9 g | 10% | |
| Total Sugars | 156.4 g | ||
| Protein | 413.1 g | 826% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 538 mg | 41% | |
| Iron | 26.0 mg | 144% | |
| Potassium | 4951 mg | 105% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.