Ribs with peach BBQ sauce are a delightful dish that combines tender meat with a rich, sweet, and tangy sauce. The Baby Back Ribs with Balsamic-Peach BBQ Sauce are perfect for summer barbecues, family gatherings, or any occasion when you want to impress your guests with minimal effort. The unique blend of flavors from fresh peaches and balsamic vinegar makes this recipe stand out, ensuring everyone will rave about it.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Ribs
- For the Balsamic-Peach BBQ Sauce
- How to Make Baby Back Ribs with Balsamic-Peach BBQ Sauce
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Step 2: Make the Rub
- Step 3: Prepare the Ribs
- Step 4: Bake the Ribs
- Step 5: Make the Sauce
- Step 6: Glaze and Finish on Grill
- How to Serve Baby Back Ribs with Balsamic-Peach BBQ Sauce
- Pair with Classic Sides
- Add a Refreshing Drink
- Create a Rustic Display
- How to Perfect Baby Back Ribs with Balsamic-Peach BBQ Sauce
- Best Side Dishes for Baby Back Ribs with Balsamic-Peach BBQ Sauce
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Baby Back Ribs with Balsamic-Peach BBQ Sauce
- Reheating Baby Back Ribs with Balsamic-Peach BBQ Sauce
- Frequently Asked Questions
- How do you make Baby Back Ribs with Balsamic-Peach BBQ Sauce?
- Can I use other fruits in the BBQ sauce?
- What should I serve with Baby Back Ribs?
- Can I omit bourbon from the recipe?
- How long does it take to cook Baby Back Ribs?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tender and Juicy: The low-and-slow cooking method results in incredibly tender ribs that practically fall off the bone.
- Unique Flavor: The balsamic-peach BBQ sauce brings an unexpected sweetness and depth of flavor that sets these ribs apart from traditional recipes.
- Easy Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this dish is easy to make even for beginners.
- Versatile Serving Options: These ribs are great for casual dinners, special occasions, or as a centerpiece at your next barbecue.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the ribs in advance and refrigerate them until you’re ready to grill, making meal prep a breeze.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into cooking, gather the essential tools you’ll need. Having everything ready will streamline the process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Aluminum foil
- Baking pan
- Grill (gas or charcoal)
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon
- Immersion blender (optional)
Importance of Each Tool
- Aluminum foil: This is crucial for wrapping the ribs during baking, helping to keep them moist while they cook.
- Grill: A good grill is key to achieving those beautiful char marks on your ribs, enhancing both flavor and presentation.
Ingredients
For the Baby Back Ribs with Balsamic-Peach BBQ Sauce, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Ribs
- 1 rack baby back pork ribs (about 2 pounds/900g)
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 tablespoon EACH: chili powder, garlic powder, brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Balsamic-Peach BBQ Sauce
- 1/3 cup (79ml) Bourbon (can be omitted if you prefer)
- 3/4 cup (200g) Ketchup
- 2 tablespoon dark brown sugar (light ok too – or maple syrup)
- 2 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 3/4 tablespoon onion powder
- 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder (or 1 minced garlic clove)
- 3/4 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 cup diced fresh peaches (about 4 small peaches)
How to Make Baby Back Ribs with Balsamic-Peach BBQ Sauce
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 300F/149C. This low temperature will help cook the ribs slowly and evenly.
Step 2: Make the Rub
Combine all rub ingredients in a small bowl. You can use a store-bought rub for convenience if desired.
Step 3: Prepare the Ribs
Rinse the ribs under cold water and pat them dry. Remove the silver skin from the back of the ribs if necessary. Cut the rack in half for easier handling. Line a baking pan with aluminum foil. Generously sprinkle the rub on both sides of each half of the ribs. Wrap each half separately in foil before placing them in the pan. Cover the entire pan with another piece of foil to trap moisture.
Step 4: Bake the Ribs
Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for about 2 hours. Check doneness by inserting a knife into the meat; it should slide in easily. If your ribs have more meat, they might need up to 2.5 hours of baking time. At this point, you can cool them down and refrigerate for up to two days if needed.
Step 5: Make the Sauce
While your ribs are baking, bring bourbon to a boil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir in ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, onion powder, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and diced peaches. Bring this mixture to a boil then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and let it simmer for about 15 minutes until thickened. If you prefer a smooth sauce without chunks, blend it using an immersion blender until smooth.
Step 6: Glaze and Finish on Grill
Heat your clean gas or charcoal grill to medium-high heat. If you’ve prepared your ribs ahead of time and they are cold from refrigeration, allow them to reach room temperature before grilling or add extra time on the grill. Brush a generous amount of peach BBQ sauce onto both sides of each rib half before placing them on the grill. Grill for about 4-6 minutes per side until char marks form. Brush on additional sauce during grilling for extra flavor before cutting into serving pieces and serving hot!
How to Serve Baby Back Ribs with Balsamic-Peach BBQ Sauce
Serving baby back ribs with balsamic-peach BBQ sauce is all about enhancing the experience with complementary flavors and textures. Here are some fantastic serving suggestions to elevate your meal.
Pair with Classic Sides
- Coleslaw: The crunchy texture and tangy flavor of coleslaw balance the sweetness of the ribs.
- Cornbread: Soft, buttery cornbread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.
- Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers add color and freshness to your plate.
Add a Refreshing Drink
- Iced Tea: Sweetened iced tea offers a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the ribs.
- Peach Lemonade: A fruity twist on lemonade complements the peach notes in the BBQ sauce.
Create a Rustic Display
- Wooden Platter: Serve the ribs on a rustic wooden platter for an appealing presentation.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle fresh parsley or cilantro over the ribs for a pop of color and flavor.

How to Perfect Baby Back Ribs with Balsamic-Peach BBQ Sauce
Perfecting your baby back ribs involves paying attention to details that enhance flavor and tenderness. Here are some tips to ensure your ribs turn out great every time.
- Use a Dry Rub: A flavorful dry rub enhances the meat’s natural taste. Let it sit on the ribs overnight for deeper flavor infusion.
- Bake Low and Slow: Cooking ribs at a low temperature allows them to become tender while retaining moisture.
- Glaze Generously: Apply multiple layers of sauce while grilling for an intense flavor boost and caramelization.
- Rest Before Serving: Allowing the ribs to rest after grilling helps retain juices, resulting in more succulent bites.
Best Side Dishes for Baby Back Ribs with Balsamic-Peach BBQ Sauce
Pairing side dishes with baby back ribs can create a well-rounded meal that pleases everyone. Here are some top choices that complement the main attraction beautifully.
- Baked Beans: Sweet and smoky baked beans provide a hearty side that pairs perfectly with BBQ flavors.
- Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad is a classic choice, adding coolness and richness to your meal.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Charred corn offers sweetness that contrasts wonderfully with savory ribs.
- Macaroni and Cheese: Rich and cheesy macaroni adds comfort while enhancing your feast’s heartiness.
- Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned roasted asparagus brings brightness and healthiness to your plate.
- Pickle Platter: Assorted pickles provide acidity that cuts through the richness of the meat, balancing flavors beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Baby Back Ribs with Balsamic-Peach BBQ Sauce, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:
- Skipping the Rub: Not using a spice rub can lead to bland ribs. Make sure to generously coat both sides of the ribs with the rub for maximum flavor.
- Ignoring Silver Skin: Leaving the silver skin on your ribs can toughen the meat. Always remove it for tender results.
- Overcooking or Undercooking: Cooking the ribs for too long can dry them out, while undercooking may leave them chewy. Monitor your cooking time closely.
- Not Letting Them Rest: Cutting into ribs right after cooking can cause juices to run out. Let them rest before slicing to retain moisture.
- Rushing the Sauce: A thick and flavorful sauce takes time. Don’t rush; allow it to simmer properly for the best taste.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cooked Baby Back Ribs with Balsamic-Peach BBQ Sauce in an airtight container.
- They can last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Baby Back Ribs with Balsamic-Peach BBQ Sauce
- Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
- They will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating Baby Back Ribs with Balsamic-Peach BBQ Sauce
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place ribs in a baking dish covered with foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover lightly, and heat on medium power in short intervals until warm.
- Stovetop: Place ribs in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or sauce. Cover and heat gently until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you make Baby Back Ribs with Balsamic-Peach BBQ Sauce?
To make this dish, prepare a spice rub, bake the ribs slowly, make the balsamic-peach sauce while they cook, and finish them on the grill or broiler for a charred finish.
Can I use other fruits in the BBQ sauce?
Yes! While peaches are delicious, you can try using apricots or plums for different flavors in your BBQ sauce.
What should I serve with Baby Back Ribs?
These ribs pair wonderfully with coleslaw, cornbread, or grilled vegetables. Feel free to mix and match sides based on your preferences!
Can I omit bourbon from the recipe?
Absolutely! The bourbon adds depth but can be skipped if desired. You might want to replace it with apple juice or broth for some added flavor.
How long does it take to cook Baby Back Ribs?
The total cooking time is about 2 hours and 10 minutes. This includes baking and grilling time, ensuring they are tender and flavorful.
Final Thoughts
Baby Back Ribs with Balsamic-Peach BBQ Sauce are not just scrumptious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Their sweet and savory notes make them perfect for summer grilling or family dinners. Feel free to customize your sauce by adding herbs or spices that you love!
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Baby Back Ribs with Balsamic-Peach BBQ Sauce
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
Indulge in the mouthwatering flavor of Baby Back Ribs with Balsamic-Peach BBQ Sauce. This delightful dish marries tender, slow-cooked pork ribs with a sweet and tangy barbecue sauce made from fresh peaches and balsamic vinegar. Perfect for summer barbecues or family gatherings, these ribs are sure to impress your guests without requiring hours in the kitchen. The unique blend of flavors elevates this classic comfort food, making it an unforgettable centerpiece for any meal.
Ingredients
- 1 rack baby back pork ribs (about 2 pounds)
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 tablespoon chili powder
- 1/2 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1/2 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/3 cup (79ml) Bourbon (optional)
- 3/4 cup (200g) Ketchup
- 2 tablespoons dark brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 3/4 tablespoon onion powder
- 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder (or 1 minced garlic clove)
- 3/4 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 cup diced fresh peaches (about 4 small peaches)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (149°C).
- Combine rub ingredients: smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, brown sugar, and salt.
- Prepare ribs by rinsing and removing silver skin; cut into halves.
- Apply the spice rub generously on both sides of the ribs and wrap them in aluminum foil.
- Bake for approximately 2 hours until the meat is tender.
- While baking, make the BBQ sauce by simmering bourbon (if using), ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, onion powder, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and diced peaches for 15 minutes.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat; grill ribs for about 4-6 minutes per side while brushing with sauce.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking and Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 rib half (about 200g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 90mg