What type of pork chops work best for this recipe?

Choose thick-cut, bone-in pork chops, about 1-1.5 inches thick. They offer the best taste and keep moisture in during smoking. Opt for high-quality, center-cut chops from a local butcher or a trusted meat counter.

Can I make this recipe without a smoker?

Yes, you can! A charcoal grill with indirect heat or an oven with wood chips can give similar flavors. For oven cooking, use a roasting pan with a rack and add wood chips in a foil packet for smokiness.

How long should I marinate the pork chops?

Marinate the pork chops for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best. This lets the maple rum mixture deeply infuse the meat, making it tender and flavorful.

What internal temperature should the pork chops reach?

Cook the pork chops to 145°F (63°C) for safety and juiciness. Use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the chop. Let the meat rest for 3-5 minutes after cooking to redistribute juices.

Which type of rum works best for this recipe?

Dark or spiced rum is best with maple flavors. Captain Morgan Spiced Rum or Kraken Black Spiced Rum are great choices. They add depth and complexity to the marinade.

Can I substitute the maple syrup?

While maple syrup is key, you can use honey or brown sugar if needed. But pure maple syrup gives the most authentic flavor for these smoked pork chops.

What wood chips are best for smoking these pork chops?

Maple wood chips are perfect, matching the maple syrup in the marinade. Apple wood or hickory chips also work well, adding a sweet and smoky flavor that complements the rum and maple glaze.

How long should I smoke the pork chops?

Smoke 1-1.5 inch thick pork chops at 225°F (107°C) for 1 to 1.5 hours. Monitor the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 145°F (63°C) for perfect doneness.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

Yes! Marinate the pork chops up to 24 hours in advance and prepare the glaze ahead of time. Smoke the chops and brush with the glaze during the last stages for maximum flavor.

What side dishes pair well with Maple Rum Smoked Pork Chops?

Choose sides that match the sweet and smoky flavors. Roasted sweet potatoes, grilled corn with herb butter, apple slaw, or a fresh green salad with light vinaigrette are great options. They balance the rich flavors of the smoked pork chops.

Maple Rum Smoked Pork Chops – 5 Amazing BBQ Secrets

Description

Sweet and smoky Maple Rum Smoked Pork Chops made with maple syrup, dark rum, and fruit wood smoking.

Ingredients

Scale

4 bone-in pork chops (1–1.5 inch thick)

1/4 cup dark rum

2 tbsp pure maple syrup

2 tbsp whole grain mustard

1 tbsp brown sugar

1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

2 tbsp olive oil

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Pat pork chops dry and prepare marinade.

2. Mix rum, maple syrup, mustard, sugar, Worcestershire, and oil.

3. Marinate pork chops for 4–24 hours.

4. Preheat smoker to 225°F.

5. Smoke pork chops with apple or cherry wood until 145°F internal.

6. Rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Brining with maple syrup and salt keeps pork chops juicy.

Use applewood or cherrywood for the best flavor.

Pairs well with grilled corn, apple slaw, or sweet potatoes.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours
Category: BBQ, Dinner
Method: Smoking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 pork chop
Calories: 320
Sugar: 12g
Sodium: 780mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 28g
Cholesterol: 90mg