Smoked Brat Burnt Ends Recipe
If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing BBQ appetizer with a twist, these smoked brat burnt ends are sure to be a hit! Taking inspiration from classic burnt ends, this recipe turns brats into bite-sized, caramelized morsels packed with smoky BBQ flavor. Perfect for game day, tailgates, or any outdoor gathering, these brat burnt ends are easy to prepare and packed with rich flavors your guests will love. Grab your smoker, favorite BBQ rub, and let’s get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 6 brats (choose a quality, uncooked variety)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- 2 tbsp Burn Pit BBQ All Ration Rub or another all-purpose BBQ rub
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce of choice (try our sweet honey or spicy)
- 2 tbsp honey (optional for extra sweetness)
- 2 tbsp butter (cut into small cubes)
- 1/4 cup beer (optional for extra flavor, ideally a lager or pilsner)
Instructions:
1. Prep and Smoke the Brats:
Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
Lightly coat the brats with olive oil or melted butter to help the rub stick.
Sprinkle them generously with Burn Pit BBQ All Ration Rub (or your favorite BBQ rub) to give them a flavorful crust.
2. Smoke the Brats:
Place the brats on the smoker grates, ensuring they’re evenly spaced for consistent smoking.
Smoke at 225°F for about 1.5 to 2 hours or until they reach an internal temperature of around 160°F. You’re looking for them to have a nice, smoky color.
3. Slice and Season the Brats:
Remove the brats from the smoker and slice them into 1-inch pieces.
Place the sliced brat pieces into a foil pan. Drizzle with BBQ sauce, honey, and beer if using. Dot the pan with cubes of butter for added richness and flavor.
Sprinkle with a little more rub if desired, to intensify the flavor.
4. Return to the Smoker:
Place the foil pan back on the smoker, and increase the temperature to 250°F.
Smoke for another 30-45 minutes or until the sauce thickens and the brats develop a caramelized exterior, giving them that classic “burnt ends” look.
5. Serve:
Remove the pan from the smoker, let it cool for a few minutes, and serve warm. These pair perfectly with pickles, pretzels, or a side of coleslaw.Grilling Tips:
Wood Selection: For a smoky but not overpowering flavor, try using a mild wood like apple or cherry.
Flavor Ideas & Pairings:
Try adding a sprinkle of chopped green onions or jalapeño slices for some heat and freshness.
FAQs:
Q: Can I use precooked brats?
A: Yes, but the brats won’t absorb as much smoke flavor. Reduce smoking time to 30 minutes before cutting into pieces and caramelizing.
Q: What other sauces work well?
A: A tangy mustard-based BBQ sauce or a spicy bourbon BBQ sauce can add a fun twist!
Try this recipe and let us know how it turns out! Share your creations on social media, tag us, and enjoy your new go-to jerky snack for adventures and family gatherings.
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