Imagine sinking your teeth into tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs that are bathed in a luscious apple butter BBQ sauce. If that sounds like a dream come true, then you're in for a treat with our Slow Cooker Apple Butter BBQ Ribs! This mouthwatering recipe combines the sweet and tangy flavors of apple butter and BBQ sauce, creating a dish that's perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in. With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can set your slow cooker and let the magic happen while you go about your day. Ready to impress your taste buds? Let’s dive into the deliciousness!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 racks of baby back ribs
- 1 cup apple butter
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the ribs. Rinse the baby back ribs under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Trim any excess fat from the ribs and remove the membrane from the back for better flavor and tenderness.
- In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this spice mixture evenly over both sides of the ribs, ensuring they are well-coated.
- In another bowl, combine the apple butter, BBQ sauce, and apple cider vinegar. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-blended. This will be your flavorful sauce for the ribs.
- Place the seasoned ribs into the slow cooker. You can cut the racks in half if they do not fit comfortably. Pour the apple butter BBQ sauce mixture over the ribs, making sure they are well-covered.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to low heat. Allow the ribs to cook for approximately 6 hours. The low and slow cooking method will help the ribs become tender and flavorful.
- After 6 hours, check the ribs for tenderness. They should be fall-off-the-bone tender. If they need more time, continue to cook them in 30-minute increments until they reach your desired level of doneness.
- Once the ribs are cooked, carefully remove them from the slow cooker using tongs. Place them on a serving platter. If desired, you can brush additional BBQ sauce over the top for extra flavor.
- Let the ribs rest for about 5 minutes before cutting them into individual portions. Serve warm with your favorite sides, such as coleslaw or cornbread.
Tips
- Prep the Ribs: For the best flavor and tenderness, make sure to remove the membrane from the back of the ribs and trim any excess fat before seasoning. This step is crucial for ensuring that the spices penetrate the meat.
- Season Generously: Don’t skimp on the spice rub! A good coating of garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper will enhance the flavor of the ribs. Make sure to rub it in well on both sides for an even taste.
- Mix the Sauce Well: Combine the apple butter, BBQ sauce, and apple cider vinegar thoroughly to create a smooth sauce. This blend adds a unique twist that balances sweetness with the tangy kick of BBQ.
- Layering in the Slow Cooker: If your ribs don’t fit in the slow cooker, don’t hesitate to cut them in half. Just make sure they are well covered with the sauce for optimal flavor infusion.
- Low and Slow is Key: Cooking the ribs on low for 6 hours allows them to become incredibly tender. If they’re not quite ready after this time, continue cooking in 30-minute increments until they reach your desired tenderness.
- Finishing Touches: For an extra burst of flavor, consider brushing more BBQ sauce over the ribs after removing them from the slow cooker. Let them rest for a few minutes before cutting to retain their juiciness.
- Serve with Sides: Pair your succulent ribs with classic sides like coleslaw or cornbread to complete your meal. The combination will surely leave everyone asking for seconds!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
