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Slow Cooker Honey BBQ Beef Brisket Recipe

ByCaroline
Jump to Recipe· 4.6 from 16 reviews

If you’re craving tender, fall-apart beef glazed with a sweet and tangy sauce, you’re going to love this Slow Cooker Honey BBQ Beef Brisket Recipe. I’ve made this slow cooker recipe a bunch of times and trust me, the hands-off cooking means you come home to pure deliciousness without any stress. Whether it’s a family dinner or a weekend gathering, this brisket steals the show—and I’m excited to walk you through it!

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Why This Recipe Works

  • Effortless Slow Cooking: Just set it and forget it for 10 hours, and the brisket comes out juicy and tender every single time.
  • Balanced Sweet & Tangy Sauce: Honey, molasses, and apple cider vinegar create a perfect sauce that isn’t too sweet or overpowering.
  • Hands-On Flavor Boost: The garlic and chili powder rub adds depth and warmth that complements the BBQ glaze beautifully.
  • Versatility: Great for sandwiches, dinner plates, or even meal prep—this recipe adapts easily to your needs.
Slow Cooker Honey BBQ Beef Brisket, BBQ beef brisket recipe, tender beef brisket, easy slow cooker beef, sweet and tangy beef glaze - Inside a black slow cooker, there is a single layer of dark brown shredded meat with a shiny, sticky sauce coating it. Resting partially on top of the meat is a wooden spoon with a smooth brown texture. The slow cooker sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 this …

Ingredients & Why They Work

This Slow Cooker Honey BBQ Beef Brisket Recipe shines because of its simple yet complementary ingredients. The spice rub primes the beef, while the honey BBQ sauce brings that luscious sticky glaze that sticks to every tender shred. A quick shopping tip? Choose a brisket with good marbling—it’s key for juicy results after slow cooking.

Slow Cooker Honey BBQ Beef Brisket, BBQ beef brisket recipe, tender beef brisket, easy slow cooker beef, sweet and tangy beef glaze - Flat lay of a whole raw beef brisket with visible marbling, a small pile of reddish-brown chili powder, a heap of pale yellow garlic powder, a mound of coarse white salt crystals, a small heap of ground black pepper, a small white ceramic bowl of bright red ketchup, a small white bowl of dark glossy molasses, a small white bowl of golden honey, a small white bowl of light brown soft brown sugar, a small white bowl of deep brown Worcestershire sauce, a small white bowl of smooth pale yellow Dijon mustard, a small white bowl of clear light amber apple cider vinegar, a small white bowl of clear cold water mixed with fine white cornstarch powder, two whole uncracked brown eggs arranged symmetrically — all ingredients fresh and natural, balanced composition, placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997
  • Beef Brisket: Look for a brisket around 5 pounds with decent fat marbling for that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
  • Garlic Powder & Chili Powder: These spices add a warm, slightly smoky flavor base that makes the sauce pop.
  • Ketchup & Molasses: The ketchup gives acidity and sweetness, while molasses brings rich depth to the sauce without any bitterness.
  • Honey & Brown Sugar: Two sweeteners for layers of sweetness and sticky caramelization when cooked low and slow.
  • Worcestershire Sauce & Dijon Mustard: Stir in a little umami and tang to keep the sauce balanced and interesting.
  • Apple Cider Vinegar: It cuts through the richness, keeping the BBQ sauce bright and lively.
  • Cornstarch & Cold Water: These thicken the cooking juices into a rich BBQ glaze perfect for drizzling over your brisket at the end.
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Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

I love encouraging you to make this Slow Cooker Honey BBQ Beef Brisket Recipe your own. Whether you want things spicier, sweeter, or even a bit tangier, there’s plenty of room for tweaking. I’ve tried adding a touch of smoked paprika for a smoky note, but trust me, it’s delicious without any fuss too!

  • Spice it Up: Add cayenne or chipotle powder to the rub for a smoky, spicy edge that my family gobbles up.
  • Make it Sweeter: If you’re a honey lover like me, feel free to up the honey by a tablespoon for that sticky glaze perfection.
  • Gluten-Free Version: Just ensure your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free and you’re set!
  • Batch Cooking: Double the sauce to have extra for sandwiches the next day—I rarely have leftovers, but when I do, this is a game changer.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Slow Cooker Honey BBQ Beef Brisket Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Brisket with the Perfect Rub

I start by giving my brisket a good rub-down using garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. This step infuses savory flavors right into the meat before it even meets the sauce. Be generous and rub it all over—don’t be shy! Once covered, the brisket is ready to cozy up in the slow cooker.

Step 2: Whisk Up the Honey BBQ Sauce

While the brisket waits, I mix the sauce ingredients in a bowl—ketchup, molasses, honey, brown sugar, Worcestershire, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and apple cider vinegar. It’s important to whisk this all well so the sugar dissolves and the flavors marry before cooking. This sauce is the star glaze that’ll soak into the brisket during those slow hours.

Step 3: Slow Cook Low and Slow for 10 Hours

I lightly grease my slow cooker insert so nothing sticks, then place the brisket inside and pour that glorious BBQ sauce all over. Cover, set it on low, and let it work its magic for 10 hours. This slow cooking is what breaks down the beef fibers for that tender, shreddable texture. Tip: Try not to peek! The longer it cooks undisturbed, the better.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce and Shred the Meat

When the slow cooker’s done, I carefully pour the cooking liquid into a saucepan and bring it to a boil. That secret trick? Mixing cornstarch into cold water before stirring it in—this thickens the sauce perfectly without clumps. While the sauce thickens, shred your brisket with two forks; the meat should be so tender it falls apart without any effort. Then stir the sauce back into the shredded brisket for a final flavor boost.

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Tips from My Kitchen

  • Don’t Skip the Marbling: More fat means more juicy, flavorful brisket—grab a well-marbled cut whenever possible.
  • Prep Sauce Ahead: I often make the BBQ sauce the night before to save time on cooking day—and it actually tastes better after sitting.
  • Keep the Lid Closed: Resist the urge to check during cooking; each peek lets valuable heat out and extends cook time.
  • Perfect Shredding: Warm brisket shreds best—don’t try pulling it apart while it’s cold or the texture won’t be as tender.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Honey BBQ Beef Brisket Recipe

Slow Cooker Honey BBQ Beef Brisket, BBQ beef brisket recipe, tender beef brisket, easy slow cooker beef, sweet and tangy beef glaze - A sandwich on a soft, shiny light brown bun with two layers: the bottom bun and the top bun. Between them is a large pile of dark brown shredded meat covered in thick, shiny barbecue sauce that drips slightly onto the white marbled surface and around the sandwich. The sandwich sits on a white plate with a soft black color and a slightly glossy texture, and the background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

I love adding freshly chopped cilantro or green onions on top for a pop of color and a fresh, slightly crisp contrast to the rich BBQ beef. A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds can also add a nice crunchy texture and subtle nuttiness.

Side Dishes

This brisket pairs amazingly with classic coleslaw or creamy potato salad to balance the sweetness. Roasted veggies or a simple green salad work great if you want to keep things lighter. And of course, warm cornbread or buttery rolls are perfect for sopping up every last drop of sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like to serve this Slow Cooker Honey BBQ Beef Brisket Recipe on slider buns topped with pickles and crispy onions—everyone loves sliders! You can also layer it over creamy mashed potatoes or even use it to build BBQ brisket tacos with fresh avocado and tangy slaw for a crowd-pleasing twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually store leftover brisket in an airtight container with plenty of the sauce to keep it moist. It stays fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days—and honestly, it tastes even better the next day once the flavors deepen.

Freezing

Freezing this brisket works like a charm. I portion it out into freezer bags with sauce, squeeze out excess air, and it keeps well for up to 3 months. Perfect for those days when you want a quick dinner without the hassle.

Reheating

To reheat, I prefer warming the brisket gently on the stovetop over low heat with the sauce—this keeps the meat juicy and avoids drying out. You can add a splash of water or broth if it feels too thick. Microwave works too but be careful to cover and stir halfway through.

FAQs

  1. Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?

    While brisket is ideal due to its fat content and texture, you can use chuck roast as an alternative. It also benefits from slow cooking and will be tender and flavorful, but keep in mind it may have a different texture and cooking time.

  2. Do I have to cook the brisket for 10 hours?

    Ten hours on low is recommended for the tenderest results, but if you’re short on time, 6-7 hours on high can work. Just check the brisket earlier for tenderness, as cooking times can vary with slow cookers.

  3. Can I make the honey BBQ sauce ahead of time?

    Absolutely! The honey BBQ sauce can be prepared a day or two in advance and stored in the fridge. It actually lets the flavors meld and improves the overall taste of the brisket.

  4. Is this recipe gluten-free?

    This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use a gluten-free Worcestershire sauce. Always check labels to be sure.

  5. How do I prevent the brisket from drying out?

    Using brisket with good marbling and cooking it low and slow ensures the meat stays moist. Also, don’t lift the slow cooker lid during cooking, and be sure to mix the shredded meat back into the thickened sauce before serving.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Honey BBQ Beef Brisket Recipe has become a staple in my kitchen for a reason—it’s easy, flavorful, and always a crowd-pleaser. I hope you give it a try and enjoy the slow-cooked tenderness paired with that irresistibly sweet and tangy BBQ glaze. It’s the kind of recipe I recommend to friends when they want something that feels special but doesn’t require tons of hands-on time. Happy cooking and even happier eating!

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Slow Cooker Honey BBQ Beef Brisket Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.6 from 16 reviews
  • Author: Caroline
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 hours
  • Total Time: 10 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American
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Description

A tender and flavorful Slow Cooker Honey BBQ Beef Brisket recipe featuring a sweet and tangy homemade honey BBQ sauce. Perfect for a comforting meal with minimal hands-on time.

Ingredients

Beef Brisket

  • 1 medium-large beef brisket, about 5 pounds
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

Honey BBQ Sauce

  • ½ cup ketchup
  • ½ cup molasses
  • 4 tablespoons honey
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ⅓ cup apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons cold water
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch

Instructions

  1. Prepare the slow cooker and brisket: Lightly grease your slow cooker and place the beef brisket inside.
  2. Make the sauce: Whisk together the ketchup, molasses, honey, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and apple cider vinegar in a small bowl and set aside.
  3. Season the brisket: Stir together the garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Rub this seasoning blend all over the brisket evenly.
  4. Cook the brisket: Pour the prepared honey BBQ sauce over the seasoned brisket in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low heat for 10 hours until the meat is tender and easily shreds.
  5. Thicken the sauce: Carefully pour the cooking liquid from the slow cooker into a large saucepan. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. In a small bowl, dissolve the cornstarch in cold water, then stir this mixture into the saucepan. Reduce heat to medium-low and stir until the sauce has thickened. Remove from heat.
  6. Shred and serve: Shred the beef brisket with two forks. Pour the thickened sauce back into the slow cooker with the shredded meat, stir well to combine, and serve hot.

Notes

  • The honey BBQ sauce can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to use for convenience.
  • If you prefer a spicier twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning rub.
  • Leftover brisket is excellent for sandwiches or tacos the next day.
  • Make sure to use a slow cooker large enough to hold a 5-pound brisket comfortably.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Sugar: 18 g
  • Sodium: 600 mg
  • Fat: 28 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 20 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Cholesterol: 110 mg

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