Ultimate Maple-Coffee Bacon Wrapped Baby Back Riblets Recipe

These bacon-wrapped baby back riblets feature a maple-coffee infused rub that delivers deep roasted sweetness and a final bourbon-maple glaze for glossy, caramelized perfection. The result is tender, smoky, salty-sweet pork bites with layered flavor—elevated yet comforting, ideal for cookouts, game days, or any gathering.

Ultimate Maple-Coffee Bacon Wrapped Baby Back Riblets Recipe

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Prep Time 45 minutes mins

Cook Time 3 hours hrs

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Southern

Ingredients Method

Ingredients

  

• 2 racks Baby Back Ribs (about 3-4 lbs total)
• 1-1.5 lbs Bacon thick-cut
• 1/3 cups Brown Sugar packed
• 2 tbsp Instant Espresso or Finely Ground Coffee
• 1 tbsp Pure Maple Syrup Stirred into rub for stronger flavor (optional)
• 2 tbsp Paprika
• 1 tbsp Black Pepper
• 1 tbsp Kosher Salt
• 1 tsp Onion Powder
• 1/2-1 tsp Cayenne Pepper (adjust for heat)

Glaze

• 1/4 cup Bourbon
• 1/4 cup Pure Maple Syrup
• 2 tbsp Brown Sugar
• 2 tbsp BBQ Sauce (sweet/tangy variety)

Method

 

Preparation

1. Remove the silver membrane from the bone side of each rack.
2. Cut racks into individual riblets.
3. Mix rub: brown sugar, espresso/coffee, maple extract (and optional 1 tbsp maple syrup if using), paprika, pepper, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne. Stir well until evenly combined.
4. Lightly coat riblets with mustard (optional), then apply rub generously to all sides.
5. Stretch each bacon slice slightly, wrap around a riblet, and secure with a toothpick if needed. Lightly dust extra rub on the bacon.

Smoking

1. Preheat smoker to 250–275°F (apple, cherry, or pecan wood recommended for sweetness).
2. Arrange riblets on the grate (not touching). Smoke 3–3.5 hours until internal temperature reaches 195–203°F and bacon is crisping. Spritz with apple juice after 2 hours if bacon looks dry.
3. Prepare glaze: Simmer bourbon, maple syrup, brown sugar, and BBQ sauce in a small saucepan for 5–7 minutes until thickened slightly.
4. Brush glaze over riblets during the last 20–30 minutes; continue smoking to set and caramelize the glaze.

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