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Tender Slow Cooker Baby Back Ribs with Easy Bourbon BBQ Sauce

Enjoy fall-off-the-bone tender baby back ribs coated in a rich and tangy bourbon barbecue sauce, perfect for family gatherings and special occasions.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Barbecue
Calories: 420
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Ribs
  • 2 racks baby back ribs
  • to taste Salt and pepper for seasoning
For the BBQ Sauce
  • 1 cup apple juice adds sweetness
  • 1 cup ketchup
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar adds tanginess
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs and rinse under cold water, then pat dry. Season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
Make the Sauce
  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together apple juice, ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika until well blended.
Slow Cook the Ribs
  1. Place the ribs in the slow cooker and pour half of the barbecue sauce over the ribs to coat. Reserve the other half for later.
  2. Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours, until the meat is tender and pulling away from the bone.
Glaze and Serve
  1. Preheat the grill or broiler to medium-high heat when the ribs are almost done. Brush the ribs with the reserved sauce and grill for about 5-10 minutes on each side, until caramelized.
  2. Slice the ribs into portions and serve with additional sauce on the side.

Notes

Consider substituting honey or agave for brown sugar. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for 3 months. Reheat wrapped in foil at 350°F for 15-20 minutes.