If you are craving a fall-off-the-bone, finger-licking delight, then this Slow Cooker Barbecue Ribs with Coke Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining the rich tang of barbecue sauce with the unique sweetness of cherry cola, these ribs become tender and flavorful after hours in the slow cooker. The blend of spices and the subtle cherry notes from maraschino juice come together to create a dish so comforting and delicious that it quickly becomes a household favorite. Whether you’re feeding family or entertaining friends, these ribs will steal the show every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this Slow Cooker Barbecue Ribs with Coke Recipe is easier than you think, thanks to a handful of simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in building layers of flavor, from the smoky spices to the sweet, tangy liquids that help tenderize the meat perfectly.
- 3 pounds baby back ribs: The perfect cut for tender, juicy ribs that soak up all the delicious flavors.
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt: Adds a savory depth that boosts the natural meatiness of the ribs.
- 1 teaspoon black pepper: Brings a gentle heat and balances the sweetness in the dish.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Provides a subtle sweetness and enhances overall seasoning.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Gives a smoky warmth that feels like a backyard barbecue magic touch.
- 2 cups barbecue sauce (divided): The heart of the dish, providing that sticky, tangy, and sweet coating your ribs crave.
- 2 cups cherry cola: Adds a fun, sweet fizz that tenderizes and caramelizes the meat beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons light brown sugar (packed): Contributes to the caramelized glaze and balances acidity in the sauce.
- ⅓ cup maraschino cherry juice: A surprising twist that enhances the cherry cola’s fruitiness and brightens the flavor profile.
How to Make Slow Cooker Barbecue Ribs with Coke Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Ribs
Start by removing the silver skin from the back of the ribs if your butcher hasn’t already done so. This step is crucial because it ensures the ribs become tender and lets flavors penetrate deeply. Next, generously season your ribs all over with garlic salt, black pepper, onion powder, and smoked paprika. These spices set a smoky, savory foundation that complements the sweeter elements perfectly.
Step 2: Mix the Sauce
In a separate bowl, combine half of your barbecue sauce with cherry cola, light brown sugar, and maraschino cherry juice. Stir this magical mixture well until the sugar dissolves completely. This sauce mix will be the secret to making your ribs moist, flavorful, and irresistibly sticky after slow cooking.
Step 3: Cook the Ribs
Place the seasoned ribs into your slow cooker in a single layer, bending them to fit if needed. Pour the cherry cola barbecue sauce mixture evenly over the ribs, ensuring each piece is bathed in flavor. Cover and cook on low for about 6 hours. Slow cooking melts the connective tissue, resulting in ribs that effortlessly fall from the bone.
Step 4: Add More Barbecue Sauce and Finish
Once the slow cooking is done, carefully remove the ribs and set them on a baking sheet, reserving the cooking liquid. Brush the ribs generously with the remaining barbecue sauce. For an added caramelized finish, you can place them under the broiler for a few minutes or grill briefly to get that perfect sticky glaze and slight char. This final step gives the ribs an irresistible texture and deeper flavor.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Barbecue Ribs with Coke Recipe
Garnishes
Keep things simple and fresh by sprinkling chopped fresh parsley or green onions over the ribs before serving. These garnishes add just the right pop of color and a touch of brightness that contrasts beautifully with the rich ribs.
Side Dishes
This dish shines alongside classic barbecue sides like creamy coleslaw, buttery corn on the cob, or crispy baked potatoes. If you want a fresh twist, a tangy cucumber salad cuts through the richness while keeping the meal light and balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to surprise your guests? Serve the Slow Cooker Barbecue Ribs with Coke Recipe on a rustic wooden board piled high with lemon wedges and small bowls of extra barbecue sauce for dipping. You can also shred some ribs and use the meat in sliders or tacos for casual gatherings that delight everyone.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover ribs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure they cool down before sealing to keep the meat tender and prevent sogginess.
Freezing
If you want to freeze, wrap the ribs tightly in plastic wrap and then foil or place them in a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw in the fridge overnight to maintain the best texture.
Reheating
Reheat gently in the oven at 275°F (135°C) covered with foil to prevent drying out. Alternatively, warming in the microwave covered with a damp paper towel works in a pinch but may sacrifice some crispiness.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cola in this recipe?
Absolutely! While cherry cola adds a unique fruity sweetness perfect for the Slow Cooker Barbecue Ribs with Coke Recipe, regular cola or even root beer can be great alternatives that bring their own flavor twists.
Why do we add maraschino cherry juice to the sauce?
Maraschino cherry juice enhances the cherry cola’s flavor and adds a slightly tart, vibrant note that balances the sweetness and deepens the sauce’s complexity.
How long should I cook the ribs for the best tenderness?
Cooking on low for about 6 hours is ideal for baby back ribs to achieve tender, juicy meat that falls off the bone without becoming mushy.
Can I make these ribs in the oven instead of a slow cooker?
You can! Bake the ribs covered at 300°F (150°C) for around 2.5 to 3 hours, basting occasionally with the sauce. However, the slow cooker method ensures the most tender, flavorful results.
What if I want spicier ribs?
Feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some hot sauce to the seasoning or barbecue sauce to give your Slow Cooker Barbecue Ribs with Coke Recipe a spicy kick that suits your taste buds.
Final Thoughts
If you are searching for a comforting, crowd-pleasing recipe that is as effortless as it is delicious, the Slow Cooker Barbecue Ribs with Coke Recipe is your answer. This dish captures the magic of slow-cooked tenderness with a touch of playful sweetness from cherry cola that elevates every bite. Give it a try and watch how these ribs become an instant favorite in your meal rotation — perfect for any occasion that calls for good food and even better company.
Print
Slow Cooker Barbecue Ribs with Coke Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Slow Cooker Barbecue Ribs with Coke recipe delivers tender, flavorful baby back ribs that are infused with the sweetness of cherry cola and barbeque sauce. Perfectly seasoned with garlic salt, black pepper, onion powder, and smoked paprika, these ribs cook low and slow for fall-off-the-bone goodness. The addition of light brown sugar and maraschino cherry juice adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor. Ideal for an easy, hands-off cooking experience that results in juicy, sticky ribs everyone will love.
Ingredients
Ribs and Dry Seasoning
- 3 pounds baby back ribs
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Sauces and Sugars
- 2 cups bbq sauce (divided)
- 2 cups cherry cola
- 2 tablespoons light brown sugar (packed)
- â…“ cup maraschino cherry juice
Instructions
- Prepare the ribs: Remove the membrane from the back of the baby back ribs if not already removed. This helps the seasoning penetrate and makes for more tender ribs.
- Season the ribs: In a small bowl, mix together garlic salt, black pepper, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Rub this seasoning evenly over both sides of the ribs for full flavor.
- Mix the sauce: In another bowl, combine 1 ½ cups of BBQ sauce, cherry cola, light brown sugar, and maraschino cherry juice. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is well blended.
- Slow cook the ribs: Place the seasoned ribs in the slow cooker with the meaty side facing up. Pour the cola and BBQ mixture over the ribs, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until ribs are tender and easily pull apart with a fork.
- Finish with BBQ sauce: After slow cooking, carefully transfer ribs to a baking sheet or platter. Brush both sides with the remaining ½ cup BBQ sauce for a sticky glaze.
- Optional broil step: For a caramelized finish, place the ribs under a broiler for 3-5 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning. This step is optional but adds a delicious texture and flavor contrast.
- Serve: Let the ribs rest for a few minutes before cutting into portions. Serve with your favorite sides and extra BBQ sauce if desired.
Notes
- Removing the silver skin membrane from ribs ensures better seasoning absorption and tenderness.
- Using cherry cola gives a unique sweetness and depth; regular cola can be substituted but with slightly different flavor.
- Slow cooking time may vary depending on your slow cooker model; ribs are done when tender and easily pulled apart.
- For a smokier flavor, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke to the seasoning mix.
- If you prefer thicker sauce, reduce the cooking liquid in a saucepan after slow cooking and brush on ribs.
- Broiling after slow cooking enhances texture but is optional.
