What cut of pork works best for burnt ends?

Pork belly or pork butt (shoulder) are top choices. Pork belly is fattier, making the burnt ends tender and rich. Pork butt is leaner but just as flavorful and textured.

How long does it take to smoke pork burnt ends?

Smoking takes 4-6 hours. Start by smoking the pork at 225-250°F. Then, raise the heat and add Jack Daniel's glaze for caramelized edges.

Can I make these burnt ends in the oven if I don't have a smoker?

Yes, you can make them in the oven. Use a wire rack on a baking sheet at 250°F. Add liquid smoke or wood chips for smokiness.

What's the best way to store leftover pork burnt ends?

Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat at 275°F and add more Jack Daniel's glaze.

How spicy are these Jack Daniel's pork burnt ends?

They're moderately spicy. The Jack Daniel's adds warmth, and the spice rub adds depth. For more heat, add cayenne or more black pepper.

What temperature should the pork reach for perfect burnt ends?

Aim for 195-205°F. This breaks down the collagen for a tender texture. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

Can I use a different whiskey if I don't have Jack Daniel's?

You can use other bourbon or Tennessee whiskeys. Just avoid strong flavors that might overpower the meat.

Are pork burnt ends considered a main course or appetizer?

They're versatile. Serve as a main with sides or as appetizer bites. Their flavor is a hit in either role.

How do I prevent my burnt ends from becoming too dry?

Keep them moist by using a water pan and wrapping the meat. Don't skip the glazing step. The Jack Daniel's glaze adds flavor and keeps the meat moist.

What sides pair best with Jack Daniel's pork burnt ends?

Try creamy coleslaw, baked beans, cornbread, mac and cheese, or potato salad. These sides balance the rich flavors of the burnt ends.

Smoky Jack Daniel's Pork Burnt Ends: 7 Secret Steps to Ultimate BBQ

Name: Jack Daniel's Pork Burnt Ends: Ultimate Smoky BBQ Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 30 min
Cuisine: American BBQ
Ingredients: 4-5 pounds high-quality pork belly or pork butt; Coarse kosher salt; Freshly ground black pepper; Paprika; Garlic powder; Brown sugar; Jack Daniel’s whiskey for glazing; Optional: Cayenne pepper for heat; Optional: Chipotle powder for smoky complexity; Optional: Maple syrup as alternative sweetener; Optional: Apple cider vinegar for tanginess

Description

Smoky Jack Daniel’s Pork Burnt Ends are the ultimate BBQ indulgence featuring tender pork belly cubes glazed with authentic Tennessee whiskey. This championship-level recipe transforms simple pork into caramelized, smoky perfection.

Ingredients

Scale

4–5 pounds high-quality pork belly or pork butt

Coarse kosher salt

Freshly ground black pepper

Paprika

Garlic powder

Brown sugar

Jack Daniel’s whiskey for glazing

Optional: Cayenne pepper for heat

Optional: Chipotle powder for smoky complexity

Optional: Maple syrup as alternative sweetener

Optional: Apple cider vinegar for tanginess

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Begin with high-quality pork shoulder, trim excess fat but keep enough for juiciness, cut meat into 1-inch cubes for even cooking

2. Apply strong dry rub with salt, pepper, and paprika, coat each cube thoroughly for full flavor penetration

3. Let seasoned meat rest for 30 minutes to absorb flavors completely

4. Heat Traeger smoker to 250°F for slow, controlled cooking process

5. Place cubed pork on smoker grates, maintain steady temperature for 3-4 hours

6. Monitor internal temperature until meat reaches 165°F

7. Continue smoking until internal temperature reaches 195-205°F for perfect tenderness

8. Brush each cube with Jack Daniel’s glaze during final 30 minutes of cooking

9. Allow caramelization to develop crispy exterior while maintaining tender interior

10. Remove from smoker and let rest for 15 minutes before serving

Notes

Use digital meat thermometer for precise temperature monitoring

Maintain steady smoker temperature for consistent results

Can substitute other bourbon whiskeys if Jack Daniel’s unavailable

For oven method: use wire rack on baking sheet at 250°F with liquid smoke

Store leftovers in airtight container for 3-4 days refrigerated

Freeze for up to 3 months with proper wrapping

Reheat gently at 275°F with additional glaze if needed

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours
Category: Main Course
Method: Smoking
Cuisine: American BBQ

Nutrition

Serving Size: 4 oz
Calories: 425
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 380mg
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 18g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 28g
Cholesterol: 95mg