Classic California dry rub for pulled pork

California BBQ rubs are known for their balance of sweet, spicy, and smoky flavors. The brown sugar adds a deep caramel sweetness, while a mix of peppers and chili powder provides just the right amount of kick. Smoked paprika and cumin bring a subtle smokiness, reminiscent of traditional barbecue pits. Together, these ingredients create a rub that transforms a simple pork shoulder into a mouthwatering dish.

Here’s our recipe in a larger quantity so you will have plenty BBQ rub for your future pulled pork sessions.

Ingredients for Classic California BBQ Rub (for 10 Pulled Porks)

2 cups brown sugar
2 cups white sugar
1 cup smoked paprika
1 cup kosher salt
1/2 cup black pepper
1/2 cup white pepper
1/2 cup garlic powder
1/2 cup onion powder
1/4 cup cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
1/4 cup dried mustard
1/4 cup chili powder
1/4 cup ground cumin
1/4 cup ground coriander
1/4 cup dried oregano
1/4 cup dried thyme

Or in grams if you prefer that:

400 grams brown sugar
400 grams white sugar
120 grams smoked paprika
288 grams kosher salt
60 grams black pepper
60 grams white pepper
60 grams garlic powder
50 grams onion powder
30 grams cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
30 grams dried mustard
30 grams chili powder
25 grams ground cumin
25 grams ground coriander
15 grams dried oregano
15 grams dried thyme