Bring bold coffee flavor to your backyard grill.
Summer is all about sunshine, good company, and unforgettable meals — and this season, we're adding a bold twist to BBQ favorites using an unexpected secret weapon: coffee.
Rich, aromatic, and deeply flavorful, coffee makes a perfect base for rubs and marinades that elevate grilled meats. Whether you're hosting a backyard bash or just firing up the grill for a weeknight dinner, these coffee-rubbed recipes are sure to impress.
Why Use Coffee in a BBQ Rub?
Coffee’s roasted notes enhance the umami in meat and pair beautifully with spices like smoked paprika, chili, and garlic. When used in a rub, ground coffee:
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Forms a flavorful crust that locks in juices.
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Balances sweetness and acidity in marinades.
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Brings out smoky flavors in grilled meats.
Featured Recipe: Coffee-Rubbed Steak
Ingredients:
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2 boneless ribeye steaks
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2 tbsp finely ground dark roast coffee (try our J.L. Hufford Signature French Roast)
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1 tbsp brown sugar
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1 tsp smoked paprika
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp chili powder
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Salt and black pepper to taste
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Olive oil
Instructions:
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Mix the Rub: Combine ground coffee, brown sugar, paprika, garlic, chili powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
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Prep the Steaks: Pat steaks dry, brush lightly with olive oil, and coat generously with the rub.
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Let It Sit: Let the rub marinate on the meat for at least 30 minutes (up to 4 hours in the fridge).
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Grill: Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Grill steaks for 4–5 minutes per side or to your desired doneness.
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Rest & Serve: Let rest 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with grilled veggies or corn on the cob.
Try This Too: Coffee-Rubbed Chicken Thighs
Use a similar rub on boneless skinless chicken thighs, adding a touch of cayenne for extra kick. Grill until golden and caramelized.
Shop the Tools You’ll Need:
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Coffee Grinders (for fresh ground beans):
Explore premium grinders from Baratza, Rancilio, and SMEG. -
Espresso Beans & Roasts:
Our bold, dark roasts deliver the best flavor for rubs. Shop fresh coffee from J.L. Hufford’s curated collection. -
Outdoor Cooking Accessories:
Upgrade your grill setup with high-end knives, cutting boards, and digital thermometers.
Pro Tip: Use Espresso for Marinades
Want even more depth of flavor? Try adding a shot of brewed espresso to your marinade for flank steak or brisket.
Wrap-Up: Brew, Rub, Grill, Repeat
This summer, let coffee do double duty in your kitchen and on your grill. From smoky rubs to rich marinades, it’s the flavor upgrade your BBQ has been waiting for.
Shop Coffee + Culinary Essentials at JLHufford.com
Everything you need for a delicious summer is just a click away.
