Ribs with peach BBQ sauce are a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. This Baby Back Ribs with Balsamic-Peach BBQ Sauce recipe showcases tender, juicy meat infused with sweet, savory flavors. Perfect for summer barbecues or cozy family dinners, these ribs are easy to prepare and sure to impress your guests.

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
- Classic Coleslaw
- Grilled Corn on the Cob
- Garlic Bread
- Pickles
- Potato Salad
- Watermelon Salad
- 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
- Can I use different types of barbecue sauce?
- How do I know when my baby back ribs are done?
- Can I cook baby back ribs without bourbon?
- What should I serve with Baby Back Ribs with Balsamic-Peach BBQ Sauce?
- How long do I need to marinate the ribs?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tender and Juicy: These baby back ribs are cooked low and slow, ensuring they are incredibly tender.
- Bold Flavors: The combination of balsamic vinegar and fresh peaches creates a unique BBQ sauce that stands out.
- Minimal Hands-On Time: Most of the cooking time is hands-off, allowing you to relax while the ribs bake or grill.
- Versatile Dish: Great for summer gatherings, game day, or a comforting weeknight dinner.
- Easy Cleanup: Using foil makes cleanup a breeze after enjoying this delicious meal.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your essential tools and equipment to make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking pan
- Aluminum foil
- Medium saucepan
- Grill or broiler
- Wooden spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking pan: Essential for baking the ribs evenly without making a mess.
- Aluminum foil: Helps retain moisture while cooking and simplifies cleanup.
- Medium saucepan: Necessary for preparing the flavorful balsamic-peach BBQ sauce.
- Grill or broiler: Adds that perfect charred finish to your ribs.
Ingredients
For this delicious Baby Back Ribs with Balsamic-Peach BBQ Sauce, you will need:
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.
Step 2: Make the Rub
Combine all rub ingredients in a small bowl. If you’re short on time, feel free to use a store-bought rub.
Step 3: Prepare the Ribs
Rinse the ribs under cold water and pat them dry. Remove the silver skin from the back. Cut the rack in half. Line your baking pan with aluminum foil. Generously sprinkle the rub on both sides of the ribs. Wrap each half separately in foil and place them in the pan. Cover the entire pan with another piece of foil. For enhanced flavor, season the ribs and let them sit wrapped in the fridge overnight.
Step 4: Bake the Ribs
Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for about 2 hours or until a knife slides easily into the meat. If your ribs are particularly meaty, you may need up to 2.5 hours. At this point, you can cool them down and refrigerate for up to two days in sealed bags or containers.
Step 5: Make the Sauce
While your ribs are baking, prepare your barbecue sauce. In a medium saucepan, bring bourbon to a boil over medium heat. Stir in all remaining ingredients using a wooden spoon. Bring it back to a boil then lower heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until thickened. If you’d like it thicker, uncover and simmer for an additional 5 minutes. Optionally blend until smooth if you prefer no chunks.
Step 6: Glaze and Finish on Grill
Preheat your clean gas grill (or charcoal) to medium-high heat by spraying it with oil. If you’ve refrigerated your ribs earlier, let them come to room temperature before grilling or add extra time on the grill. Brush some sauce onto both sides of the ribs then place them on the grill. Grill for about 4–6 minutes until char marks form; make sure to flip once during grilling. Brush on more sauce before cutting into serving pieces and enjoy!
How to Serve Baby Back Ribs with Balsamic-Peach BBQ Sauce
Serving Baby Back Ribs with Balsamic-Peach BBQ Sauce is a delightful experience. These tender ribs pair well with various sides and garnishes. Here are some tasty ideas to elevate your meal.
Classic Coleslaw
- A crunchy, tangy slaw made from cabbage and carrots, providing a refreshing contrast to the sweet, sticky ribs.
Grilled Corn on the Cob
- Sweet corn brushed with butter and grilled until charred. It adds a smoky flavor that complements the BBQ sauce beautifully.
Garlic Bread
- Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up extra sauce. It’s simple to make and always a favorite at gatherings.
Pickles
- Tangy dill pickles offer a nice crunch and cut through the richness of the ribs, balancing the flavors perfectly.
Potato Salad
- Creamy potato salad is classic comfort food. The coolness balances out the heat from the grill, making it an ideal pairing.
Watermelon Salad
- A light and refreshing watermelon salad with mint provides a sweet contrast to the savory ribs, perfect for summer meals.

How to Perfect Baby Back Ribs with Balsamic-Peach BBQ Sauce
Perfecting your Baby Back Ribs requires attention to detail but is well worth the effort. Here are some tips for achieving optimal flavor and tenderness.
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Use a Dry Rub: Apply your rub generously on both sides of the ribs before cooking. This enhances flavor and creates a delicious crust.
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Low and Slow Cooking: Bake ribs at a low temperature for several hours. This method ensures tender meat that easily pulls away from the bone.
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Rest Your Ribs: Allow ribs to rest after grilling. This lets juices redistribute for maximum tenderness and flavor.
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Baste Frequently: While grilling, baste your ribs with sauce often. This layer of sauce caramelizes beautifully, adding depth to each bite.
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Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to adjust spices in your dry rub or BBQ sauce according to your taste preferences for unique twists.
Best Side Dishes for Baby Back Ribs with Balsamic-Peach BBQ Sauce
Pairing side dishes with your Baby Back Ribs can enhance your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options that work wonderfully together.
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Cornbread: Sweet cornbread adds a soft texture that contrasts nicely with the savory ribs. Serve warm for best results.
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Baked Beans: Hearty baked beans provide protein and sweetness, complementing the flavors of the balsamic-peach sauce.
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Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy mac and cheese is indulgent comfort food that makes any BBQ meal complete.
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Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted veggies add nutrients and balance out the meal with their natural sweetness.
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Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad brings a crunchy element that pairs well with rich BBQ flavors.
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French Fries: Crispy fries are always a hit! They can be seasoned in various ways to match or contrast your rib flavors.
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Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf infused with herbs serves as a neutral side that absorbs any extra sauce beautifully.
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Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can cleanse the palate between bites of savory ribs, making it an excellent choice during summer months.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Baby Back Ribs with Balsamic-Peach BBQ Sauce, avoid these common mistakes to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.
- Skipping the Rub: Not applying the rub thoroughly can lead to bland ribs. Generously coat both sides for maximum flavor.
- Not Removing Silver Skin: Leaving the silver skin on can make ribs tough. Always remove it for tender results.
- Rushing the Cooking Time: Cooking ribs too quickly won’t yield that fall-off-the-bone tenderness. Slow-cook them for best results.
- Ignoring Rest Time: Cutting into ribs immediately after cooking can dry them out. Let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Overcooking the Sauce: Simmering sauce too long can make it too thick. Keep an eye on it and adjust as needed.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container to keep the ribs fresh.
- Baby back ribs can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Baby Back Ribs with Balsamic-Peach BBQ Sauce
- Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Baby Back Ribs with Balsamic-Peach BBQ Sauce
- Oven: Preheat to 250°F (120°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place ribs in a microwave-safe dish, cover lightly, and heat in short intervals until warm.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, adding a bit of water or sauce to prevent drying out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of barbecue sauce?
Yes, while this recipe features a balsamic-peach BBQ sauce, feel free to use your favorite store-bought or homemade variety.
How do I know when my baby back ribs are done?
The ribs are done when the meat pulls away from the bone easily and is tender when pierced with a knife.
Can I cook baby back ribs without bourbon?
Absolutely! If you prefer not to use bourbon, simply omit it from the recipe without affecting flavor significantly.
What should I serve with Baby Back Ribs with Balsamic-Peach BBQ Sauce?
These savory ribs pair well with coleslaw, cornbread, or grilled vegetables for a delicious meal.
How long do I need to marinate the ribs?
For best flavor, marinate your ribs overnight after applying the rub; however, even 30 minutes will enhance taste.
Final Thoughts
Baby Back Ribs with Balsamic-Peach BBQ Sauce offer a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors that are sure to impress. This recipe is versatile; you can customize it by adding your favorite spices or adjusting sweetness. Give it a try at your next gathering!
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📖 Recipe Card
PrintBaby Back Ribs with Balsamic-Peach BBQ Sauce
Indulge in the ultimate summer treat with these Baby Back Ribs featuring a mouthwatering Balsamic-Peach BBQ Sauce. This recipe guarantees tender, juicy pork ribs that are slow-cooked to perfection, infused with the delightful sweetness of fresh peaches and the tangy richness of balsamic vinegar. Ideal for backyard barbecues or cozy family dinners, these ribs will not only satisfy your taste buds but also impress your guests. The preparation is simple, allowing you to enjoy quality time with friends and family while the flavors meld beautifully in the oven or on the grill.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking and Grilling
- Cuisine: American
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 (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)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (149°C).
- Combine rub ingredients in a bowl and apply generously on rib surfaces.
- Prepare the ribs by rinsing and drying them; remove the silver skin and cut them in half.
- Wrap each half in aluminum foil and place in a baking pan; cover tightly with foil.
- Bake for about 2-2.5 hours until tender.
- While baking, make the BBQ sauce by simmering bourbon with remaining ingredients until thickened.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat; glaze ribs with sauce and grill for 4-6 minutes until charred.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 rib (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 95mg