A simple, tasty sugar-free twist on classic burnt ends. This recipe uses pork belly and a savory, no-sugar sauce for crisp, sticky bites.
introduction
These Sugar Free Burnt Ends give you the same rich taste without added sugar. They brown and crisp in the oven. Try them with a light salad or roasted veg. For a sweet snack side, you might like easy sugar-free candied walnuts on the side.
why make this recipe
You make this recipe to enjoy a rich, smoky treat without sugar. It uses simple spices and common pantry items. It is low fuss and fills the house with a good smell.
how to make Sugar Free Burnt Ends
This method keeps steps clear and easy. Preheat the oven and cut the pork belly into cubes. Mix the sauce and spices well so each piece has a good coating. Spread the cubes on parchment, then bake low and slow until they are caramelized and crisp. For a different pork bite, see how others make quick BBQ snacks like brown sugar BBQ sausage bites.
Ingredients :
- 2 pounds pork belly
- 1/4 cup unsweetened BBQ sauce
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon mustard
Directions :
- Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Cut the pork belly into 1-inch cubes.
- In a large bowl, combine pork belly cubes with BBQ sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, apple cider vinegar, and mustard.
- Toss until the pork is evenly coated.
- Arrange the cubed pork belly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 2-3 hours until crispy and caramelized.
- Remove from the oven and serve hot.

how to serve Sugar Free Burnt Ends
Serve hot as an appetizer or main. Put them on a platter with toothpicks for a party. They pair well with pickles, coleslaw, or roasted veggies. For a dessert on the side, try simple treats like chewy brown sugar cookies.
how to store Sugar Free Burnt Ends
Let them cool to room temperature. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, use a hot oven or air fryer for best crisping. Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until hot.
tips to make Sugar Free Burnt Ends
- Cut even cubes so they cook the same way.
- Pat the pork dry before mixing for better browning.
- Use parchment to catch drips and make cleanup easy.
- Bake at low heat for longer for tender inside and crisp outside.
- If sauce is thin, toss again halfway through baking to stick more. Try small changes to flavor with your favorite spice blends.
variation (if any)
- Add a little liquid smoke for deeper smokey flavor.
- Swap mustard for Dijon for a sharper bite.
- Use chicken thigh cubes instead of pork for a lighter option.
FAQs
Q: Can I use another cut of pork?
A: Yes. Pork shoulder or butt works but may take longer to cook.
Q: Is the BBQ sauce really sugar free?
A: Use a labeled unsweetened or no-sugar-added BBQ sauce to keep it sugar free.
Q: Can I make these ahead?
A: Yes. Bake, cool, and store. Reheat before serving to crisp them again.
Q: How do I get them extra crispy?
A: Finish them at a higher heat for a few minutes or use the broiler briefly while watching closely.
Conclusion
This simple Sugar Free Burnt Ends recipe gives you a smoky, crispy treat with no added sugar. For another low-carb pork belly idea and more tips, see Keto Pork Belly Burnt Ends – 2 Net Carbs Per Serving.
Print
Sugar Free Burnt Ends
- Total Time: 210 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
A simple, tasty sugar-free twist on classic burnt ends using pork belly and a savory sauce for crispy, sticky bites.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds pork belly
- 1/4 cup unsweetened BBQ sauce
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon mustard
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Cut the pork belly into 1-inch cubes.
- In a large bowl, combine pork belly cubes with BBQ sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, apple cider vinegar, and mustard.
- Toss until the pork is evenly coated.
- Arrange the cubed pork belly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 2-3 hours until crispy and caramelized.
- Remove from the oven and serve hot.
Notes
Cut even cubes for consistent cooking and pat the pork dry for better browning. Use parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 180 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: sugar-free, burnt ends, pork belly, low carb, BBQ