Coffee Rub Steak Ribeye with Bourbon Cherry Sauce

Rich and Savory Coffee-Crusted Ribeye Steak Crowned with a Decadent Bourbon Cherry Sauce

If you’re looking for a steak recipe that’s bold, smoky, and irresistibly rich, this coffee rub steak with bourbon cherry sauce is your answer. The deep, roasted notes of coffee dry rub steak combined with a sweet and tangy bourbon cherry sauce create a perfect balance of flavors that elevate the natural richness of the beef.  Whether you’re using a coffee rub ribeye roast, strip steak, or tenderloin, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. With the addition of a smooth, slightly boozy cherry sauce, it’s a steak experience like no other.

Coffee Rub Steak Ribeye with Bourbon Cherry Sauce | Best Coffee Crusted Steak Rub Recipe for Ribeye

DifficultyMedium

Servings2-4

Prep time9 minutes

Cook time20 minutes

Total time30 minutes

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Ingredients

For the Coffee Rub Steak:

• 2 Ribeye Steaks, (or preferred cut, 1.5-inch thick)
• 2 tbsp finely ground coffee
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• tbsp olive oil, (for searing)

For the Bourbon Cherry Sauce:

• 1 cup frozen cherries, pitted & halved
• 1/4 cup burbon
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tbsp maple syrup, (or honey)
• 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp cornstarch, (mixed with 1 tbsp water for thickening - if needed)

Let's Get Cooking!

Instructions

• 1

  Prepare the Coffee Rub

  1. In a bowl, combine coffee, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and black pepper.
  2. Pat steaks dry and coat with the coffee rub, pressing it in. Let rest at room temperature for 15 minutes.
• 2

  Cook the Steak

  1. Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil.
  2. Sear steaks for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare (adjust cooking time based on preference).
  3. Remove and let rest for 5-10 minutes.

   

• 3

  Make the Bourbon Cherry Sauce

  1. In a saucepan, combine cherries, bourbon, balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and salt.
  2. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until cherries soften.
  3. Add cornstarch slurry if needed for thickening.
• 4

  Serve & Enjoy

  1. Slice the steak and drizzle with bourbon cherry sauce.
  2. Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Equipment

• Cast iron skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Tongs
• Saucepan
• Measuring cup

Notes

Recipe Notes for the Best Coffee Rub Steak with Bourbon Cherry Sauce

• Use Freshly Ground Coffee: The best results come from freshly ground coffee beans, rather than pre-ground coffee. For an extra layer of depth, try using a Kona coffee steak rub if available.
• Let the Steak Rest: After applying the coffee dry rub steak seasoning, let it sit at room temperature for at least 15 minutes before cooking. This allows the rub to penetrate the meat and ensures even cooking.
• Sear at High Heat: Whether using a cast iron skillet or a grill, make sure the surface is hot before adding the steak to achieve that perfect sear.
• Adjusting Sweetness in the Sauce: If you prefer a less sweet bourbon cherry sauce, reduce the maple syrup or honey by half and add an extra teaspoon of balsamic vinegar for balance.
• For a Smokier Flavor: If grilling, consider using wood chips like hickory or mesquite to infuse a deeper smoky aroma into the steak.

Variations of Coffee Rub Steak with Bourbon Cherry Sauce

1. Different Cuts of Beef

• Coffee Rub Ribeye Roast: Use this rub on a whole ribeye roast, then roast in the oven at 275°F (135°C) until it reaches your preferred doneness.
• Kona Coffee Steak Rub on Filet Mignon: The delicate texture of filet mignon pairs beautifully with the bold flavors of a coffee crusted steak rub.
• New York Strip Coffee Rub Steak: Perfect if you want a leaner cut with a good balance of marbling.

2. Alternative Cooking Methods

• Reverse Sear Method: If using thicker cuts (1.5 inches or more), cook the steak at 275°F (135°C) in the oven until it reaches 10°F below your desired doneness, then finish with a quick high-heat sear.
• Grilled Coffee Rub Steak: Grill over direct heat for 3-4 minutes per side, then move to indirect heat until reaching desired doneness.

3. Sauce Variations

• Balsamic Blackberry Reduction: Swap cherries for blackberries and reduce balsamic vinegar for a tangier profile.
• Spicy Bourbon Sauce: Add ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Port Wine Cherry Sauce: Replace bourbon with port wine for a richer, sweeter variation.

4. Serving Variations

• With Mashed Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness complements the smoky coffee rub.
• Over a Bed of Arugula & Goat Cheese: A fresh, peppery arugula salad with crumbled goat cheese balances the bold steak flavors.
• In a Steak Sandwich: Thinly slice the coffee-rubbed steak and serve in a toasted ciabatta roll with caramelized onions.

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

• Pre-Make the Coffee Dry Rub: Mix the dry rub in advance and store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
• Prepare the Bourbon Cherry Sauce Ahead: Make the sauce a day before and store in the fridge. Reheat before serving.
• Leftovers: Store cooked steak in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking.

Nutrition

Calories	520
Carbohydrates	18g
Fat	30g
Fiber	2g
Protein	45g
Sodium	580mg
Sugar	12g

History, Evolution, and Inspiration Behind Coffee Rub Beef

The Magic of Coffee in Steak Rubs

Coffee and beef might sound like an unusual pairing, but this combination has been a favorite of chefs and pitmasters for years. The bitter, earthy, and slightly sweet flavors of coffee enhance the savory umami of steak, creating a complex crust that locks in moisture and intensifies caramelization.

Where Did Coffee Steak Rubs Come From?

• Kona coffee steak rub is a popular variation that originates from Hawaiian cooking, where premium Kona coffee is used to create a smoky, slightly sweet dry rub for grilled meats.
• The use of coffee rub beef can also be traced to Southern barbecue culture, where coffee is mixed with spices to create a rich, flavorful crust.

This coffee crusted steak rub recipe builds on these traditions, using finely ground coffee, smoked paprika, brown sugar, and spices to create a balanced, aromatic crust.

The bourbon cherry sauce adds a luxurious, sweet-tart contrast, making this an elevated, gourmet steak dish.

The Art of Cooking the Perfect Coffee Rub Steak

Choosing the Right Cut of Beef

• Ribeye: Best for a coffee rub ribeye roast or a grilled steak with a beautiful sear.
• New York Strip: A leaner option with great marbling.
• Filet Mignon: Tender and buttery, works beautifully with a rich sauce.
• Flank or Skirt Steak: Great for slicing thin and serving with the sauce.

Why Coffee Works as a Dry Rub for Steak

• Creates a deep, flavorful crust when seared.
• Enhances natural beefy richness without overpowering.
• Pairs well with both sweet and smoky flavors.

The Importance of Bourbon Cherry Sauce

• Balances the bold coffee rub with a mix of sweet cherries, tangy balsamic, and rich bourbon.
• Adds a glossy, restaurant-style finish to the dish.
• Provides contrast—sweet and tart flavors complement the deep, smoky crust of the steak.

Interesting Things About This Recipe

• Inspired by Southern & Hawaiian flavors.
• A foolproof way to elevate steak at home.
• Pairs beautifully with red wine or an old-fashioned cocktail.
• Works on multiple cuts of beef—from ribeye to tenderloin.

An Overview of the Recipe Components

This recipe consists of three key components:

1. The Coffee Rub: A smoky blend of coffee, brown sugar, paprika, garlic, and chili powder.
2. The Bourbon Cherry Sauce: A glossy, slightly boozy cherry sauce with balsamic vinegar and bourbon.
3. The Perfectly Cooked Steak: Seared to perfection and rested for maximum juiciness.

What Occasions Is This Recipe Perfect For?

This coffee rub steak recipe is great for:

• Romantic Date Nights – A luxurious, restaurant-style meal.
• Holiday & Special Celebrations – Impress guests with bold flavors.
• Summer Grilling Nights – Perfect for grilled ribeye steaks.
• Father’s Day or Cookouts – A smoky, coffee-infused steak is always a hit.

Why This Is the Perfect Coffee Rub Steak Recipe

• Delivers deep, smoky, and slightly sweet flavors.
• The coffee rub forms a bold, rich crust.
• The bourbon cherry sauce balances out the coffee rub beautifully.
• It’s a simple, gourmet dish that anyone can make at home.

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• This Poor Man’s Steak Tastes Like a MILLION Bucks!