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
- Enter the raw brisket weight in pounds.
- Set your smoker temperature (°F) and select your preferred cook rate.
- Choose whether you plan to use the Texas Crutch (foil wrap).
- The calculator displays estimated cook time, minimum rest time, and total time including rest.
- Plan your start time by subtracting total hours from your target serving time.
How the result changes with Brisket Weight
| Brisket Weight | Cook Time | Total (Cook + Rest) |
|---|---|---|
| 6.1 | 4.9 hours | 5.4 hours |
| 11 | 8.8 hours | 9.7 hours |
| 18 | 14.4 hours | 15.9 hours |
| 23 | 18.4 hours | 20.3 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
- Identify Input Parameters4 parametersBrisket Weight = 12, Smoker Temperature = 250, Cook Rate = 60, Wrap (Texas Crutch) = 1 = 4 input(s) provided
- Calculate Cook TimeCook Time9.6 = 9.6
- Calculate TotalTotal10.6 = 10.6
- Calculate Cook TimeCook Time576 = 576
- Calculate Rest TimeRest Time60 = 60
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