The name says it all: Slow Cooker Sweet and Sticky Pork Ribs are the ultimate comfort food. Smoky paprika and garlic combine with sweet maple syrup and a tangy apple kick for a glaze that’s absolutely finger-licking good. These ribs cook until they fall off the bone tender, and the sticky sauce is pure magic.

I love making these ribs for cozy nights when I want something rich and flavorful without much effort. Pair them with a fresh green salad or roasted veggies to round out the meal. Trust me, once you taste that sauce, you’ll want to drizzle it on everything!

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Recipe Ingredients

• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp chili flakes
• 2 tsp freshly ground white pepper
• 3 tbsp treacle or molasses
• 3 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 tbsp sea salt flakes
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 granny smith apple, peeled and finely grated
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 2 kg (4 lb 8 oz) American-style pork ribs
• Green salad, to serve

How To Make Slow Cooker Sweet and Sticky Pork Ribs

1. Mix Your Flavor Base: In your slow cooker, combine the smoked paprika, chili flakes, white pepper, treacle, maple syrup, sea salt, garlic, grated apple, and apple cider vinegar. Mix everything until the ingredients form a well-blended coating.
2. Prep and Start Cooking: Place the pork ribs into the slow cooker, ensuring they are well-coated with the flavorful mixture. Cook on high for four hours, and don’t forget to turn the ribs halfway through for even cooking.
3. Handle the Ribs: Once cooked, carefully remove the ribs from the slow cooker, and cover them loosely with foil to keep warm. Let them rest while you prepare the sauce.
4. Make It Sticky: Pour the leftover cooking liquid into a saucepan, bring it to a boil on medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for about 15 minutes or until the liquid has thickened into a rich, sticky sauce.
5. Get Saucy: Brush the ribs generously with the thickened sauce until they’re completely coated and irresistibly glossy. If you prefer, you can reheat the ribs briefly under a broiler for extra caramelization.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Plate the ribs alongside a big, fresh green salad, and serve them immediately while they’re warm and sticky.

Recipe Tips

• Maximize Flavor with Marinade Time: Let the ribs marinate in the spice mixture for at least 2 hours or overnight for a deeper, richer flavor that infuses every bite.
• Customize the Spice Level: Adjust the chili flakes to suit your heat preference; for milder ribs, reduce them, or for spicy ribs, add cayenne pepper or extra chili flakes.
• Thicker Sauce Option: If the sauce isn’t thick enough after simmering, add a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with water, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to thicken.
• Make It Smokier: For a deeper smoky flavor, add 1 teaspoon of liquid smoke to the sauce before simmering, enhancing the barbecue-style aroma and taste.
• Alternative Serving Ideas: Instead of green salad, serve these ribs with creamy coleslaw, roasted potatoes, or cornbread for a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal.

Recipe FAQs and Variations

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