Cherry-Bourbon BBQ Sauce for Ribs

There’s something irresistibly delicious about slathering tender, juicy ribs with a rich, flavorful sauce that balances sweetness, tang, and a hint of smokiness. This Cherry-Bourbon BBQ Sauce for Ribs brings a unique twist to classic barbecue with the vibrant notes of cherry preserves combined with the depth of bourbon-inspired flavors. It’s a perfect match for beef or chicken ribs, elevating your grilling or oven-baking game to a whole new level. Whether you’re preparing for a backyard cookout or just craving something special for dinner, this sauce is sure to impress.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This Cherry-Bourbon BBQ Sauce for Ribs strikes the ideal harmony between fruity sweetness and savory complexity. The cherry preserves add a natural sweetness and a subtle tartness, while the apple cider vinegar cuts through with a tangy punch. Brown sugar enhances the caramel notes, and smoked paprika brings a gentle smoky aroma that complements the ribs beautifully. The Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce add layers of depth and umami, making this sauce anything but ordinary.

What really sets this recipe apart is its versatility. It complements both beef ribs and chicken ribs, making it perfect for any preference. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up with pantry staples, yet it tastes like you’ve spent hours perfecting it. And if you’re looking for a way to change up your rib game, this sauce is an excellent place to start.

For those who enjoy chicken ribs, this sauce would pair wonderfully with my Garlic Butter Chicken Wings, offering a deliciously different but equally satisfying flavor profile.

Ingredients

• 1 cup cherry preserves
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 pounds beef ribs or chicken ribs

How To Make Cherry-Bourbon BBQ Sauce for Ribs

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce Base

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the cherry preserves and ketchup. Stir continuously until the preserves start to melt and blend smoothly with the ketchup, about 3-5 minutes.

Step 2: Add the Flavor Boosters

Pour in the apple cider vinegar and Worcestershire sauce. Stir to combine evenly. Add the brown sugar and Dijon mustard, mixing well until the sugar dissolves completely.

Step 3: Season the Sauce

Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Stir well to distribute the spices evenly throughout the sauce. Let the sauce simmer gently for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 4: Prepare the Ribs

While the sauce is simmering, prepare your ribs. If using beef ribs, trim any excess fat. For chicken ribs, pat dry with paper towels. Season both sides lightly with salt and pepper.

Step 5: Cook the Ribs

You can cook the ribs on a grill over medium heat or in an oven preheated to 300°F (150°C). For grilling, place the ribs bone side down and cook slowly for about 1.5 to 2 hours, turning occasionally. If baking, wrap the ribs in foil and place on a baking sheet, cooking for 2 to 2.5 hours until tender.

Step 6: Apply the Cherry-Bourbon BBQ Sauce

During the last 20 minutes of cooking, brush a generous layer of the Cherry-Bourbon BBQ Sauce for Ribs onto the ribs. Continue cooking uncovered, turning and basting every 5-7 minutes to build up a sticky, flavorful glaze.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once the ribs are beautifully caramelized and tender, remove them from heat. Let them rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with extra Cherry-Bourbon BBQ Sauce on the side for dipping.

Expert Tips

• For a deeper bourbon flavor without using actual bourbon, increase the smoked paprika slightly and add a splash of molasses to mimic that rich undertone.
• Always baste the ribs multiple times in the final cooking stage to create a thick, sticky glaze that clings to every bite.
• If you prefer a smoother sauce, feel free to blend the sauce with an immersion blender before simmering.
• Allow ribs to rest after cooking to let juices redistribute, ensuring maximum tenderness.
• Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; beef ribs should reach about 190°F for tender, fall-off-the-bone results.

Variations and Customizations

• Spicy Kick: Add 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the sauce for some heat.
• Smokier Flavor: Incorporate a teaspoon of liquid smoke or use smoked sea salt in place of regular salt.
• Fruit Swap: Substitute cherry preserves for raspberry or blackberry preserves for a different fruity twist.
• Sweetness Level: Adjust the brown sugar amount depending on your preferred sweetness.
• Herbal Notes: Add a teaspoon of fresh chopped rosemary or thyme for an earthy aroma.

How to Store Leftovers

Store any leftover Cherry-Bourbon BBQ Sauce for Ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to one week. When reheating, warm gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent burning. If the sauce thickens too much, thin it out with a splash of water or apple cider vinegar.

Leftover ribs coated in this sauce can also be refrigerated and reheated in the oven at 300°F (150°C) wrapped in foil to preserve moisture. For longer storage, freeze the sauce or ribs wrapped tightly in freezer-safe packaging for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQ

Can I make this Cherry-Bourbon BBQ Sauce for Ribs without cherry preserves?

Yes! If you don’t have cherry preserves on hand, you can substitute with cherry jam or even a combination of fresh cherries cooked down with a little sugar. Just make sure to adjust the sweetness to taste.

Is this sauce suitable for chicken ribs as well as beef ribs?

Absolutely. This Cherry-Bourbon BBQ Sauce for Ribs pairs wonderfully with both beef and chicken ribs. The fruity and tangy notes complement the flavor of chicken beautifully, making it a versatile choice.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Definitely! The sauce can be made a day or two ahead and stored in the refrigerator. This actually allows the flavors to deepen and meld, making your ribs even more delicious.

What’s the best way to cook ribs for this sauce?

Slow cooking is key for tender ribs. You can grill them over indirect heat or bake wrapped in foil at a low temperature until tender. Then finish by basting with the Cherry-Bourbon BBQ Sauce for Ribs and cooking uncovered to develop a sticky glaze.

Conclusion

This Cherry-Bourbon BBQ Sauce for Ribs is a standout recipe that brings a fresh, fruity twist to your barbecue repertoire. Its perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors enhances the natural richness of ribs, whether you choose beef or chicken. Easy to prepare and versatile, this sauce transforms any meal into a flavorful feast. Next time you’re craving ribs with a little extra something special, this sauce will quickly become your go-to. Don’t forget to pair it with your favorite sides and enjoy every finger-licking bite!

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