Smoky Brown Sugar Spice Rub

Smoky Brown Sugar Spice Rub

A smoky-sweet blend that forms a dark, flavorful crust on ribs, brisket, and pulled pork.

Total 5 min Makes 16 oz Calories 35/serving

Dietary

Vegan, Vegetarian, Pescatarian, Wheat free, Dairy free, Nut free, Halal, Kosher

This rub balances packed brown sugar with smoked paprika, chili powder, and a mix of savory spices for a well-rounded bark on slow-cooked meats. Mix it in minutes and store it in an airtight jar for use on pork, chicken, or beef whenever you fire up the smoker or grill. The sugar caramelizes during long cooks, creating a deep color and slightly crisp texture on the surface.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup smoked paprika
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 2 tablespoons kosher salt
  • 1 tablespoon coarsely ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground chipotle powder

Method

  1. In a medium bowl, combine the brown sugar, smoked paprika, chili powder, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, ground mustard, cayenne, and chipotle powder.

  2. Whisk or stir thoroughly, breaking up any clumps of brown sugar, until the mixture is uniform in color with no streaks.

  3. Transfer the rub to an airtight jar or container, pressing out any air pockets, and store in a cool, dry place for up to 3 months.

  4. Apply generously to meat, patting it into the surface, and let sit at least 30 minutes before cooking to allow the flavors to penetrate.

Rate this recipe

★ 4.5 (1)

Smoky Brown Sugar Spice Rub

This rub balances packed brown sugar with smoked paprika, chili powder, and a mix of savory spices for a well-rounded bark on slow-cooked meats. Mix it in minutes and store it in an airtight jar for use on pork, chicken, or beef whenever you fire up the smoker or grill. The sugar caramelizes during long cooks, creating a deep color and slightly crisp texture on the surface.

5 min 16 oz 35 cal

Ingredients

  • 1 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup smoked paprika
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 2 tablespoons kosher salt
  • 1 tablespoon coarsely ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground chipotle powder

Method

  1. 1

    In a medium bowl, combine the brown sugar, smoked paprika, chili powder, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, ground mustard, cayenne, and chipotle powder.

  2. 2

    Whisk or stir thoroughly, breaking up any clumps of brown sugar, until the mixture is uniform in color with no streaks.

  3. 3

    Transfer the rub to an airtight jar or container, pressing out any air pockets, and store in a cool, dry place for up to 3 months.

  4. 4

    Apply generously to meat, patting it into the surface, and let sit at least 30 minutes before cooking to allow the flavors to penetrate.