• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • About
  • Contact
  • My Recipe Box

Gimme Some Grilling ®

Recipes for the Everyday Grill Master

  • All Recipes
  • Course
    • Appetizers
    • Side Dishes
    • Breakfast
    • Main Dish
    • Desserts
    • Rubs
  • Meat
    • Beef
    • Chicken
    • Pork
  • Shop Our Rubs
Display Search Bar

Grilling

Smoking

Chicken

Main Dish

Appetizers

Burgers

Visit my other sites:

Julie’s Eats & Treats

Kids Activity Zone

HomeRubs

Brisket Rub

5 from 8 votes
Jump to Recipe
  • Share
By: the Evinks22 Comments
Posted: 03/07/25

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our disclosure policy.

Brisket rub collage. Top image of rub in a wooden spoon, bottom image of rub in a white dish.
Brisket-Rub-Pinterest
Brisket-Rub-Pinterest-5
Brisket-Rub-Pinterest-4
Brisket-Rub-Pinterest-2
Brisket-Rub-New
Brisket-Rub-Pinterest

This super easy beef Brisket Rub recipe is so delicious and will make your brisket the BEST! Only six spices that are already in your pantry waiting to be mixed. Mix it up, grab your beef brisket, fire up the smoker and you will be enjoying brisket with the perfect bark in no time at all!

Want to save this recipe? Enter your email below and we'll send the recipe straight to your inbox!
Loading
White bowl on white plate with brisket rub mixed up in it

PIN IT FOR LATER!

When making a delicious brisket one of the keys is the rub, in my opinion. The perfect dry rub for smoked brisket will bring out the flavors in your beef without overpowering it. That’s why I love this recipe. It’s only six ingredients and the perfect blend to make the best brisket on your smoker.

Brisket is one of my favorite cuts of meat on the smoker. Properly smoked brisket has a delicious crust and is moist and so flavorful. 

I love putting together different rubs for the specific cuts of meat. Great rubs like Dry Rub for Ribs, Sweet and Smoky Rub or Montreal Steak Seasoning and now I’m sharing my delicious rub just for brisket!

After you make this rub and smoke your own brisket you will be judging every restaurant’s brisket against it. This really is the best brisket rub, I’ve yet to find one that beats it!

why you’ll love this recipe

  • You probably don’t have to make a trip to the grocery store to buy any of the 6 spices that make up this rub.
  • Your brisket is going to have a perfect crust after being rubbed with this perfectly sweet and savory mixture.
  • Everyone is going to be asking you for the recipe and it’s so easy, you could make up little packets as housewarming gifts!
  • This rub honestly takes 90 seconds to measure out and stir together, you can’t possibly think of an excuse not to make it.

Why make my own rub?

Flavor of course! This really is the best beef brisket rub. I love being able to control the spices. Like more spice? No problem! Prefer a little sweetness? Easy enough!

Also knowing what is and isn’t in your food is important! Many store-bought brands contain MSG. And though it is a flavor enhancer, MSG does not have good health benefits. Suffice to say I don’t want to feed it to my family. Pretty sure you don’t either!

Ingredients for Brisket Rub

  • Kosher salt – We recommend using a coarse salt like Morton Kosher Salt for the crispiest bark.
  • Brown sugar – Adds a little bit of sweetness to your brisket.
  • Garlic powder – Lends an earthy aromatic element to the rub.
  • Black pepper – If possible, use a coarse grind or restaurant grind black pepper.
  • Smoked paprika – If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular works, but smoked has a really unique flavor that takes this rub over the top.
  • Cumin – Gives off a warm, slightly nutty flavor. This is our secret ingredient!

helpful tools

  • Small bowl
  • Measuring spoons
  • Mason jar

how to make homemade brisket rub

Add all ingredients to a small bowl and stir well to mix evenly together.

when to apply the rub?

You can put the rub on the brisket the night before you are going to smoke, or just before you will be putting it on the smoker to allow the flavors to really sink into the meat while it is smoking.

how do you apply rub to a brisket?

Generously! I use lots of rub on my brisket. The rub creates a crust on the meat as it smokes which gives each bite more flavor. Don’t sprinkle the rub on the meat, make it a workout! Work the rub into the meat to get flavor into the meat.

Rub all sides of the brisket. Get the seasoning on every inch of the meat and into all the nooks and crannies. Then it’s ready to smoke!

electric smoker grates with seasoned brisket being cooked on it

what to serve with brisket

Oh boy, where do we even start? It is nice to use the grill outside while you’ve got a brisket in the smoker so I love a good side of Sweet Potato Wedges or a classic Baked Potato on the grill.

Easy Grilled Veggies are a big hit in our house as well as Grilled Corn on the Cob. If you have leftover grilled corn from a previous night, a Grilled Corn Salad is so yummy and perfect for a cookout.

When your brisket is cooked, throw this delicious Apple Crumble on the smoker for dessert!

how to store brisket rub

I use a small mason jar to store brisket rub because it can be sealed well with a screw top. Brisket rub can be stored in the pantry in a cool, dry spot or in the refrigerator.

how long does a spice rub last?

Over time spices lose their potency, they really don’t spoil. If it’s been in the cupboard for a while, just give it a taste test. Is it flavorful or is it bland and lifeless? If it doesn’t have any taste, it’s time to toss it and mix up another batch! A spice rub can usually last about 6 months but is best enjoyed within a month of mixing.

Pro Tips

  • I didn’t include any cayenne pepper or hot chili in the rub, but if you want a little heat in your rub please feel free to add those in. Remember a little will go a long way when you use cayenne pepper.
  • Don’t use this easy rub for only brisket. It’s also great on pork, lamb, venison, poultry and seafood.
Bowl of Brisket Rub

This rub is sure to change your brisket game for the best! Whip it up in a pinch or keep it on hand if you smoke brisket often, either way, you’ll be glad you did!

More homemade dry rubs

  • Want to know our secret to making the perfect ribs? It starts with this Dry Rub for Ribs!
  • Throwing a pork loin on the grill? Try this Dry Rub for Pork to make it perfect!
  • Beef Rub is made for all of your steaks, roast beef, burnt ends and more.
  • If you want to know the rub that my pantry is never without it’s this Sweet & Smoky Rub. It’s great on ALL grilling!

Shop Our Spices

Shop Now!

Did you make this? If you snap a photo, please be sure tag me on Instagram at @gimmesomegrilling or #gimmesomegrilling so I can see your grilling masterpieces!

A small white ramekin filled with a homemade dry rub mixture, consisting of coarse salt, black pepper, and various spices, giving it a reddish-brown color. The ramekin sits on a white plate with a wooden spoon nearby, against a blurred background.
5 from 8 votes

Brisket Rub Recipe

Quick and easy rub perfect for your smoked brisket! It's only six spices that are already in your pantry.
Prep:10 minutes mins
Total:10 minutes mins
Print Recipe Rate Recipe
Save RecipeSaved!
Want to save this recipe? Enter your email below and we’ll send the recipe straight to your inbox!
Loading
1

Ingredients

  • ⅓ cup kosher salt
  • ¼ cup brown sugar packed
  • 1 Tablespoon garlic powder
  • 2 teaspoons ground black pepper
  • 1 Tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 2 teaspoons cumin

Instructions

  • Mix all ingredients in bowl. Store in airtight container for up to 3 weeks.

Tips

Storage Tips
I use a small mason jar. A screw top jar works great because it can be sealed well. Store in the pantry or even the refrigerator.
How can you tell if your spice rub is going bad?
This will easily keep for up to six months when well sealed, but is best when enjoyed within a month of making. Over time spices lose their potency, they really don’t spoil. If it’s been in the cupboard for a while, just give it a taste test. Is it flavorful or is it bland and lifeless? If it doesn’t have any taste, it’s time to toss it and mix up another batch!

Nutrition Information

Calories: 301kcal (15%), Carbohydrates: 73g (24%), Protein: 3g (6%), Fat: 1g (2%), Sodium: 30600mg (1330%), Potassium: 478mg (14%), Fiber: 4g (17%), Sugar: 58g (64%), Vitamin A: 3500IU (70%), Calcium: 139mg (14%), Iron: 5.8mg (32%)
© Gimme Some Grilling ®

We are not dietitians and recommend you seek a nutritionist for exact nutritional information. The information in the nutrition box is calculated through a program and there is room for error. If you need an accurate count, I recommend running the ingredients through your favorite nutrition calculator.

Did you make this?

Be sure to upload a photo & tag me at @gimmesomegrilling. I love seeing what you made!

Tag Me On Instagram Rate Recipe
12.7K shares
  • Facebook
  • Twitter

Meet the Evinks

Hi! We are Jason & Julie! We focus on easy, simple recipes that everyone can tackle on their smoker and grills that the entire family will enjoy!

Read more...

You May Also Like...

  • Homemade Sweet and Smoky Rub in glass jar
    Sweet and Smoky Rub
  • smoked beef brisket slices on pan
    Smoked Brisket
  • Dry Rub for Ribs on spoon
    Dry Rub for Ribs
  • Spoon of Dry Rub
    Dry Rub for Pork

Reader Interactions

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Have a question? Submit your question or comment below.

Recipe Rating




  1. Steve says

    Posted on 2/25/24 at 1:21 pm

    5 stars
    Awesome Rub that goes well with anything

    Reply
    • Courtney says

      Posted on 3/6/24 at 9:37 am

      Thank you!

      Reply
  2. James says

    Posted on 10/13/19 at 1:30 pm

    5 stars
    Great recipe. The whole family enjoyed it. Just the right amount of seasoning.

    Reply
    • Megan Mitzel says

      Posted on 10/15/19 at 9:10 pm

      Perfect! So happy it was a hit!

      Reply
  3. Deb says

    Posted on 8/16/19 at 2:07 am

    I don’t grill out a lot. We just moved and are looking forward to doing a lot more! I love all the recipes and have pinned a couple meals. My question is if we don’t have a smoker how would you use a gas grill. Or is it not going to be advisable? Thanks a bunch.

    Reply
    • Megan Mitzel says

      Posted on 8/20/19 at 2:48 am

      When grilling, the meat is much closer to the heat source than with a smoker. Smoking is a low and slow technique so that might be difficult to achieve on a grill.

      Reply
  4. Carl Posch says

    Posted on 8/6/19 at 3:59 pm

    I am going to smoke a brisket this weekend. I am anxious to see how this recipe is. It is very simple and basic, which I had discovered in the past, makes for the best outcome. The only thing I will add to it is a dash of cayenne. I will follow-up with the results. Happy smoking!

    Reply
    • Julie Evink says

      Posted on 8/8/19 at 3:59 pm

      Hope you enjoyed it!

      Reply
  5. Kitty says

    Posted on 5/24/19 at 7:14 pm

    5 stars
    It’s great when searching the net for inspiration and you find what you thought was a secret family recipe! Been making this same rub with only slight variation. Using white pepper instead of Black and hot smoked paprika. Turns out great every time!

    Now I’ll share the other family secret… The sauce… Using the rub from above we add tomato paste and some cider vinegar to thin to the consistency we want… Warmed ok the grill for the last hour of cooking gives the sauce a bit of smoke too… Served on the side for those who need a sauce… keeps the flavors consistent and complimentary.

    The brisket really needs no sauce, as the rub is more than flavorful!

    Great recipe!

    Reply
    • Julie Evink says

      Posted on 5/28/19 at 2:00 pm

      Love the idea of the sauce and warming it on the grill for the smoked flavor!!

      Reply
  6. Kirstin Bishop says

    Posted on 5/23/19 at 8:29 pm

    How big of a brisket were you using when you used made your rub?

    Reply
    • Julie Evink says

      Posted on 5/24/19 at 1:59 am

      It was a 13 lb brisket I think!

      Reply
  7. Meagen Brosius says

    Posted on 2/12/19 at 3:32 pm

    5 stars
    We love experimenting with new rubs and spice combos when we do brisket or even pulled pork in the smoker. My husband was excited to give this one a try and it didn’t disappoint! Yum!

    Reply
    • Julie Evink says

      Posted on 2/15/19 at 5:28 pm

      So glad you enjoyed it! We LOVE using new rubs to a fresh twist on our favorites!

      Reply
  8. Kelly says

    Posted on 2/12/19 at 3:18 pm

    5 stars
    This rub definitely takes brisket to the next level. My husband uses a rub almost identical to this.

    Reply
    • Julie Evink says

      Posted on 2/15/19 at 5:28 pm

      It sure does!

      Reply
  9. Melissa Howell says

    Posted on 2/8/19 at 3:14 am

    5 stars
    You are like the “rub” queen! I really need to rub my meat more 🙂

    Reply
    • Julie Evink says

      Posted on 2/12/19 at 2:55 am

      Yes I am! It takes every piece of meat over the top!

      Reply
  10. Malinda Linnebur says

    Posted on 1/24/19 at 7:21 pm

    5 stars
    Thank you for sharing this rub!! Now I have a great base recipe and can adjust to our tastes!! Thanks for sharing!

    Reply
    • Julie Evink says

      Posted on 1/27/19 at 1:51 pm

      You’re welcome! I hope you love it as much as we do!

      Reply
  11. Danielle Green says

    Posted on 1/23/19 at 1:40 pm

    5 stars
    I can close my eyes and taste the deliciousness of six simple spices! Nice mix!

    Reply
    • Julie Evink says

      Posted on 1/27/19 at 1:52 pm

      Thanks! We love it!

      Reply

Primary Sidebar

Welcome!

Hi! We are Jason & Julie! We focus on easy, simple recipes that everyone can tackle on their smoker and grills that the entire family will enjoy!

Read More...

Feed a Crowd!

Burnt Ends in foil pan

Poor Man’s Burnt Ends

A plate with slices of smoked pork loin in a circle.

Easy Smoked Pork Loin

A whole turkey breast in a foil pan.

Smoked Turkey Breast {Bone-In}

Smoked Pork Butt Pulled on tray

Easy Smoked Pork Butt

5 Secrets to Mastering your Smoker

Close up Traeger Smoker with food

5 Secrets to Mastering your Smoker

Favorites!

Easy Smoked Ribs being brushed with BBQ sauce

Smoked Ribs {3-2-1 Method}

Marinated pork chops on grill pan

Pork Chop Marinade

Easy Traeger Smoked Meatloaf on electric smoker

Smoked Meatloaf

sausage and egg breakfast casserole in tin pan

Sausage Breakfast Casserole {Grill or Oven}

Our Grilling Secrets

5 Secrets to Mastering your Smoker

As Seen In:

Good housekeeping logo.
Country Living logo.
BuzzFeed logo.
Delish logo.
The Huffington Post logo.
Parade logo.
Back to Top

Privacy Policy

Accessibility

Disclaimers

Contact

© 2025 Gimme Some Grilling ®
Site Credits
Designed by Melissa Rose Design Developed by Once Coupled
Back to Top
  • Pinterest
  • Facebook
  • Twitter