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Burnt Ends Recipe

Burnt Ends Recipe

This burnt ends recipe delivers smoky, tender, and perfectly caramelized brisket bites that are easy to make at home. Perfect for BBQ lovers, these bites are juicy, flavorful, and ideal for sandwiches, platters, or family dinners.
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Prep Time 45 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 45 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 480
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 10 –12 lbs beef brisket point
  • 1/4 cup kosher salt
  • 1/4 cup black pepper
  • 2 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tbsp garlic powder
  • 1 cup barbecue sauce sweet, tangy, or spicy
  • 2 –3 tbsp brown sugar or honey optional
  • 1 tbsp mustard optional, helps rub adhere

Equipment

  • Smoker or grill (with lid)
  • Meat thermometer
  • Cutting board and sharp knife
  • Aluminum foil or disposable pans
  • Tongs

Method
 

  1. Trim and season the brisket: Trim excess fat, leaving about 1/4 inch. Mix salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder, then rub evenly on all sides. Let rest for 30–60 minutes.
  2. Smoke the brisket: Preheat smoker to 225°F (107°C). Smoke the brisket point for 4–6 hours until internal temperature reaches 190°F (88°C), adding wood chips as needed.
  3. Cube and sauce: Cut the smoked brisket point into 1-inch cubes. Toss cubes with barbecue sauce and optional brown sugar or honey.
  4. Caramelize: Return cubed brisket to the smoker or oven at 225–250°F for 1–2 hours until edges are caramelized and slightly crispy.
  5. Rest and serve: Let burnt ends rest 10–15 minutes. Serve as a main dish, on sandwiches, or with side dishes like mac & cheese.

Notes

  • Low and slow cooking ensures tender, flavorful meat.
  • Use a meat thermometer to prevent overcooking.
  • Resting before serving keeps juices locked in.
  • Burnt ends can be stored in the fridge for 3–4 days or frozen up to 3 months.
Burnt Ends Recipe
Nutrition Information (per serving, estimated):
Calories: 480 kcal | Carbohydrates: 12g | Protein: 42g | Fat: 30g | Saturated Fat: 12g | Sodium: 950mg | Potassium: 950mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin A: 50IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 40mg | Iron: 5mg