05/30/2026
Temperature: Set your smoker to 225°F to 250°F.Time: Smoke for 4 to 6 hours, depending on size.Misting: Spritz the hocks every hour with diluted apple cider vinegar or beef broth to build bark and keep the meat moist.Finishing: Once the internal temperature hits 165°F, you can wrap the hocks in butcher paper or foil with a splash of apple juice to tenderize.Crisping: If you want crispy skin (cracklin’), increase the smoker temp to 350°F–425°F for the final 30 minutes, or pop them in a preheated oven until the skin puffs and bubbles.