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Authentic Kansas City Brisket Burnt Ends Recipe

Learn how to transform beef brisket into smoky, caramelized, bite-sized BBQ treats known as "meat candy."
Print Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 whole beef brisket preferably with a generous fat cap
  • 3 tbsp BBQ rub of choice
  • 1.5 cups BBQ sauce of choice
  • 1/2 cup Brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup Unsalted butter cubed
  • 2 tbsp Honey optional

Method
 

  1. Trim the Brisket: Begin by trimming the brisket to remove excess fat while preserving a layer to maintain moisture during cooking. Ensure clean edges for even smoking.
  2. Season Generously: Apply your favorite BBQ rub all over the brisket, ensuring complete coverage. The flavors of the rub will form part of the bark and enhance every bite.
  3. Smoke the Brisket: Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C) and place the brisket fat side up. Smoke the meat until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), which typically takes 6-8 hours.
  4. Create the Cubes: Once cooked, remove the brisket and allow it to rest for 15-20 minutes. Slice the point of the brisket into 1-inch cubes to form the classic burnt ends.
  5. Coat in Flavor: Place the cubes in an aluminum pan. Add BBQ sauce, a sprinkle of brown sugar, cubed unsalted butter, and honey if desired. Toss to coat each cube evenly.
  6. Smoke Again: Return the pan to the smoker and cook uncovered at 225°F (107°C) for another 1.5-2 hours. This step allows the meat to caramelize and absorb the sauce fully.
  7. Serve and Enjoy: Once the burnt ends are tender, sticky, and bursting with flavor, remove them from the smoker. Serve fresh and hot as a savory appetizer or as part of a BBQ feast.