Brisket Burnt Ends
The caramelized meat candy of competition BBQ.
Updated June 2026
Prep 20 min · Cook 8h · Serves 6
What you need
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Ingredients
- 1 brisket point (5-6 lb)
- 1/4 cup beef rub
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp honey
Steps
- Smoke the brisket point at 250F to ~195F internal.
- Cube into 1-inch pieces.
- Toss cubes with BBQ sauce, brown sugar, and honey in a foil pan.
- Return to the smoker 1-2 hours until sticky and caramelized (~205F).
Point, not flat
Burnt ends are made from the fattier point muscle — it stays moist through the second cook and caramelizes beautifully.
FAQ
What cut for burnt ends?
The brisket point. Chuck roast (poor-man's burnt ends) also works well.
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