Best Homemade Coffee Rub Recipe for BBQ Brisket

Last Updated on March 26, 2024 by Karen

If you’re a fan of smoky, flavorful brisket, then you’ve to try this coffee dry rub which will take your brisket to the next level. Get ready to impress your friends and family with the most delicious and tender brisket they’ve ever tasted!

Coffee rubs have become increasingly popular in the world of barbecue, and for good reason. The rich smokiness of the brisket pairs perfectly with the complex flavor of coffee, creating a truly mouthwatering combination. Whether you’re a coffee lover or not, you’re sure to fall in love with this recipe. So let’s get started!

Why this is the best coffee rub recipe for brisket

There are many coffee rub recipes out there. In fact, we have a couple of good coffee rub from gourmet stores, but nothing beats a good homemade coffee rub. Here’s why:

• Our coffee spice rub recipe uses a perfect blend of spices and seasonings to create a balanced and flavorful rub. The combination of chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dark brown sugar, salt, and black pepper creates a complex mix that enhances the taste of the brisket.
• The addition of coffee to the rub makes a good brisket rub, adding a rich and smoky flavor that complements the natural flavors of the meat. The coffee also helps to create a beautiful caramelized crust on the exterior of the brisket, adding even more depth of flavor.
• Our recipe uses medium roast coffee, which provides a well-rounded flavor without overpowering the other ingredients. This allows the taste of the brisket to shine through while still benefiting from the coffee’s unique characteristics.
• The coffee rub is incredibly versatile and can be used on other types of meats, such as pork tenderloin, pork chops, chicken thighs, prime rib, or a little sprinkle on salmon. So if you have any leftovers or want to try something different next time, you can easily use this rub on other dishes.

What ingredients do I need for a coffee brisket rub?

To make our homemade coffee spice blend, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Garlic powder: Not to be confused with dried garlic granules

Onion powder: Not to be confused with dried onion granules

Smoked paprika: Made from dried and smoked peppers, it adds a bold flavor to the rub.

Dark brown sugar: I like to use dark brown sugar for spice mix because it contains a higher percentage of molasses and has a stronger, more intense flavor compared to light brown sugar.

Chili powder: New Mexico chile powder has a mild to medium heat level with a slightly sweet and earthy flavor. Ancho chile powder is made from dried poblano peppers, and has mild to medium heat. It often has a slightly sweet and fruity taste (reminds me of raisin).

Ground coffee: The key ingredient of this coffee rub. I like to use freshly ground coffee for this rub – it just has so much flavor! I use medium roast because that’s what we use for our morning coffee at home, but you can also use light roast or dark roast.

Sea salt: You’ll want to use coarse salt instead of kosher or table salt.

Black pepper: Freshly ground black pepper for maximum flavor.

What type of coffee should I use for the coffee rub?

When it comes to choosing the right coffee for your rub, we recommend using a medium roast. This type of coffee provides a balanced flavor that complements the other ingredients without overpowering them. You can use pre-ground coffee or coffee beans for the rub, depending on what you have available. If you’re using coffee beans, make sure to grind them to a medium-fine consistency before adding them to the rub mixture.

How do I apply coffee brisket rub for maximum flavor?

To apply the coffee rub to your brisket, follow these simple steps:

1. In a small bowl, combine all the ingredients. Mix well to ensure all the spices are evenly distributed.

2. Place your brisket on a sheet pan or in a small roasting pan. Trim any excess fat from the brisket, leaving a thin layer of fat called the fat cap on top. This will help keep the meat moist during the long cooking time.

3. Sprinkle the coffee rub mixture generously all over the brisket, making sure to cover every square inch. Use your hands to massage the rub into the meat, ensuring it adheres well.

4. For the best results, let the coffee-rubbed brisket sit in the refrigerator overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat and gives you a more flavorful and tender brisket.

5. When you’re ready to cook the brisket, preheat your grill or smoker to 225F. If using a smoker, add 2 cups wood chips to enhance the smoky flavor. If using a grill, set it up for indirect heat.

6. Once the grill or smoker is preheated, place the brisket on the grill grate, fat cap side up. Close the lid and let the brisket cook low and slow for several hours until it reaches an internal temperature of 195-205F.

7. During the cooking process, you can periodically spritz the brisket with a little water or a coffee BBQ sauce to keep it moist and add extra flavor.

8. Once the brisket reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the grill or smoker and let it rest for about 30 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a tender, juicy, and amazing brisket.

9. Slice the brisket against the grain and serve it with your favorite sides. Enjoy the rich smokiness and bold flavors of your coffee-rubbed brisket!

Can I use instant coffee in a coffee brisket rub?

Yes, you can use instant coffee granules in the coffee brisket rub if that’s what you have on hand. However, keep in mind that instant coffee may have a slightly different flavor compared to freshly ground coffee. It may also dissolve more easily in the rub mixture.

If you’re using instant coffee, you can use the same amount as specified in the recipe. Simply mix it with the other spices and seasonings, and apply the rub to the brisket following the instructions provided.

How long does this coffee rub last?

Our coffee rub can be stored in an airtight container for quite a long time, up to 6 months. This allows you to make a large batch and use it whenever you want to enhance the flavor of your meats.

However, we recommend using the rub within a few months for the best flavor. As time goes on, the spices may lose some of their potency, resulting in a less flavorful rub.

How fine should the coffee grounds be?

The coffee grounds should be medium-fine for the coffee rub. This allows them to blend well with the other spices and seasonings, and ensures that the flavor is evenly distributed throughout the brisket.

If the coffee grounds are too coarse, they may not adhere well to the meat and may result in an uneven flavor. On the other hand, if the coffee grounds are too fine, they may not create a nice crust on the brisket. So it’s best to aim for a medium-fine consistency when grinding your coffee beans or when using pre-ground coffee for the rub.

What are some variations to this recipe? Can I use this rub on other types of meats?

Our coffee rub is incredibly versatile and can be used on various types of meats. Here are some variations to try:

• For spicy flavor, add 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the rub mixture. You can also use chipotle chili powder which has a smoky flavor with moderate heat. This will give your brisket an extra kick and satisfy those who love a bit of heat.
• Add more sugar to your blend if you prefer more sweet flavors.
• If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of chili powder or omit it altogether. You can also reduce the amount of black pepper if desired.
• Feel free to experiment with different types of coffee beans or blends to create your own unique flavor profile.
• This rub works well on other red meats like pork tenderloin, pork chops, and even prime rib. So if you have any of these meats on hand, don’t hesitate to give them a coffee rub treatment.

With these variations, you can customize the rub to suit your taste preferences and create a flavor profile that you love. Feel free to get creative and make it your own!

Is there caffeine in this coffee brisket rub? 

Yes, there is caffeine in the coffee brisket rub since coffee naturally contains caffeine. However, keep in mind that the amount of caffeine per serving is minimal (only one tablespoon of coffee is used in this recipe) and unlikely to have a significant impact.

Can I use decaf coffee for the coffee brisket rub?

If you prefer to use decaf coffee for the rub, you can certainly do so. Decaf coffee will still contribute to the flavor of the rub without the caffeine content. Simply substitute an equal amount of decaf coffee for the regular coffee in the recipe. Whether you choose regular coffee or decaf coffee, you’ll still get the delicious flavors and aromas that coffee brings to the brisket rub.

This coffee rub recipe is guaranteed to elevate your brisket to a whole new level and impress anyone who takes a bite. Get ready to become the master of BBQ!