Main Courses > Grilled & BBQ > Charcoal & Flame > Smoked Brisket

Coffee-Rubbed Smoked Brisket

Elevate your smoked brisket with a unique coffee-based rub that adds depth and complexity to the flavor profile. The coffee enhances the smoky notes and creates a delicious crust.

This recipe uses a charcoal smoker.

Prep Time
45 minutes
Cook Time
12-16 hours
Servings
12-16
Ingredients
  • 12-14 lbs Beef Brisket (whole packer)
  • null null Coffee Rub (recipe follows)
  • 8-10 cups Wood Chips (pecan or oak)
  • 1 cup Beef Broth (for spritzing)

Coffee Rub Recipe

Combine the following ingredients in a bowl:
4 tablespoons Ground Coffee (finely ground)
4 tablespoons Brown Sugar
2 tablespoons Smoked Paprika
2 tablespoons Chili Powder
2 tablespoons Garlic Powder
1 tablespoon Onion Powder
1 tablespoon Kosher Salt
1 tablespoon Black Pepper

Mix well and store in an airtight container.

Brisket Preparation & Trimming

Trim the brisket, removing excess fat from the fat cap side and any hard pieces of fat. Leave about 1/4 inch of fat on the fat cap.

Applying the Coffee Rub

Generously coat all sides of the brisket with the coffee rub, pressing it into the meat to help it adhere.

Smoker Preparation

Prepare your charcoal smoker for indirect cooking. Maintain a temperature of 225-250°F (107-121°C) using charcoal and wood chips (pecan or oak).

Smoking the Brisket

Place the brisket fat-side up on the smoker grate. Smoke for 6-8 hours, spritzing with beef broth every 2-3 hours to keep the brisket moist. Aim for an internal temperature of 165-175°F (74-79°C).

Wrapping the Brisket

Wrap the brisket tightly in butcher paper. This helps retain moisture and allows the brisket to push through the stall without drying out.

Finishing the Cook

Return the wrapped brisket to the smoker and continue cooking for another 4-6 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 203-205°F (95-96°C). The brisket should be probe-tender.

Resting

Allow the wrapped brisket to rest for at least 1 hour, or up to 4 hours, in a cooler or insulated container. This is crucial for tenderizing the meat.

Slicing and Serving

Unwrap the brisket and slice it against the grain. Serve immediately and enjoy the unique flavor of the coffee-rubbed brisket!

Nutrition Facts Estimated per 100g of product

(Estimates will vary based on the cut of brisket and trimming.)
Calories: 260-360
Protein: 26-36g
Fat: 16-26g
Carbohydrates: 1-2g

Other Considerations for Nutrition

Brisket is high in protein and fat. Trimming excess fat before cooking can help reduce the overall fat content. The coffee rub contains caffeine, so be mindful of serving size for those sensitive to caffeine. Consider serving with healthy side dishes like a salad or roasted vegetables.

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FAQ

  • Can I use a different type of coffee?

    Yes, you can experiment with different types of coffee to create different flavor profiles. Dark roast coffee will provide a more intense flavor, while lighter roast coffee will be more subtle. Avoid flavored coffees.
  • What if I don't have brown sugar?

    You can substitute granulated sugar, but the brown sugar adds a molasses flavor that complements the coffee well.
  • Can I use a different type of wood for smoking?

    Pecan and oak are excellent choices for smoking brisket, but you can also use hickory or apple wood for a slightly different flavor.