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Calcimator

Brisket Cook Time Calculator

Calculate total brisket cook time based on weight, smoker temperature, cook rate, and whether you wrap.

Inputs

lbs
°F
min/lb

Results

Cook Time

9.6 hours

Total (Cook + Rest)

10.6 hours

Cook Time576 min
Rest Time60 min
Effective Rate60 min/lb
How to Use This Calculator
  1. Enter the raw brisket weight in pounds.
  2. Set your smoker temperature (°F) and select your preferred cook rate.
  3. Choose whether you plan to use the Texas Crutch (foil wrap).
  4. The calculator displays estimated cook time, minimum rest time, and total time including rest.
  5. Plan your start time by subtracting total hours from your target serving time.

How the result changes with Brisket Weight

Brisket WeightCook TimeTotal (Cook + Rest)
6.14.9 hours5.4 hours
118.8 hours9.7 hours
1814.4 hours15.9 hours
2318.4 hours20.3 hours

What each input means

Brisket Weight
Untrimmed brisket weight in pounds. A full packer brisket is typically 12-18 lbs.
Smoker Temperature
Target smoker temperature. 225-250°F is the low-and-slow sweet spot for brisket.
Cook Rate
Minutes per pound at 250°F. 60 min/lb for hot-and-fast, 75 min/lb for traditional low-and-slow.
Wrap (Texas Crutch)
0 = No wrap (longer cook, more bark), 1 = Wrap in butcher paper or foil (reduces cook time ~20%).

How this is calculated

Worked example, using the default values

  1. Identify Input Parameters
    4 parameters
    Brisket Weight = 12, Smoker Temperature = 250, Cook Rate = 60, Wrap (Texas Crutch) = 1 = 4 input(s) provided
  2. Calculate Cook Time
    Cook Time
    9.6 = 9.6
  3. Calculate Total
    Total
    10.6 = 10.6
  4. Calculate Cook Time
    Cook Time
    576 = 576
  5. Calculate Rest Time
    Rest Time
    60 = 60

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