Smoked Bourbon Glazed Ribs Recipe

Smoked Bourbon Glazed Ribs Recipe

There’s nothing quite like biting into tender, smoky ribs with a sticky, flavorful glaze—and these Smoked Bourbon Glazed Ribs deliver all that and more. Perfect for weekend cookouts or impressing guests, this recipe combines the deep, caramel notes of bourbon with the rich smokiness of your grill or smoker.

Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or just starting your BBQ journey, this step-by-step guide will help you create ribs that are fall-off-the-bone delicious. Pair them with your favorite sides, and you’ve got a showstopping meal that everyone will love.

So grab your smoker, your favorite bourbon, and let’s get cooking!

Ingredients:

For the Ribs:

For the Bourbon Glaze:

  • 1 cup bourbon
  • 1 cup brown sugar (or use a sugar substitute like monk fruit for a low-sugar option)
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ribs:

  1. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs for better seasoning penetration.
  2. Rub a thin layer of mustard over the ribs.
  3. Generously coat with Burn Pit BBQ Memphis-Style Rub and let the ribs sit for at least 30 minutes while you prepare your smoker.

2. Set Up the Smoker:

  1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
  2. Add a mix of hickory and fruitwood chips (like apple or cherry) for a balanced smoke flavor.

3. Smoke the Ribs:

  1. Place the ribs bone-side down on the smoker grates.
  2. Smoke for 3 hours, spritzing with apple juice or apple cider vinegar every hour to keep them moist.

4. Wrap the Ribs (Optional):

  1. After 3 hours, wrap the ribs in aluminum foil with a little honey and apple juice for extra tenderness.
  2. Return to the smoker for 2 hours.

5. Make the Bourbon Glaze:

  1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine all glaze ingredients.
  2. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the glaze thickens slightly. Remove from heat.

6. Finish the Ribs:

  1. After 2 hours, unwrap the ribs and brush generously with the bourbon glaze.
  2. Smoke for another 1 hour uncovered, basting with the glaze every 20 minutes.

7. Serve:

  1. Remove the ribs from the smoker and let them rest for 10 minutes.
  2. Slice and serve with extra bourbon glaze on the side.

Grilling Tips:

  • Beginner Tip: Use a meat thermometer. The ribs are done when the internal temperature reaches 190°F-205°F.
  • Advanced Tip: Experiment with different bourbon brands for unique flavor profiles.

Pairing Ideas:

  • Sides: Pair these ribs with smoked mac and cheese or grilled asparagus.
  • Drinks: A bourbon-based cocktail or a light ale complements the smoky flavor.

FAQ:

Can I use a grill instead of a smoker?
Yes! Set up your grill for indirect heat, keeping the temperature steady at 225°F.

What if I don’t drink bourbon?
You can substitute apple cider or a non-alcoholic bourbon alternative.

How do I make this recipe low-sugar?
Use a sugar substitute like monk fruit and replace honey with sugar-free maple syrup.

Call to Action:

Fire up your smoker and try this recipe today! Don’t forget to tag us on social media @BurnPitBBQ with your masterpiece.

Back to blog

Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.