If you have a sweet tooth but still crave that irresistible smoky, savory crunch, this Candied Bacon Recipe is going to be your new obsession. The perfect balance of crispy thick-cut bacon coated in a luscious maple and brown sugar glaze, spiked with just the right amount of black pepper, makes each bite an explosion of flavor and texture. Whether you want to impress guests at brunch or jazz up a snack time, this recipe transforms simple bacon into a decadent treat that everyone will rave about.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Candied Bacon Recipe calls for just a handful of ingredients that are easy to find but essential to achieving that perfect sweet and spicy glaze. Each item plays a crucial role, from the smoky richness of thick-cut bacon to the caramelized crunch the brown sugar and maple syrup create. The black pepper adds a subtle kick that cuts through the sweetness, rounding out the flavors beautifully.
- Thick-cut bacon: Provides the perfect meatiness and texture that holds up well to glazing and baking.
- Brown sugar: Adds deep caramel notes and a sticky glaze that crisps up deliciously in the oven.
- Maple syrup: Brings natural sweetness and a rich, slightly earthy flavor to the coating.
- Coarsely ground black pepper: Gives a spicy contrast that balances the sweet elements wonderfully.
How to Make Candied Bacon Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Rack
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Line a sheet pan with foil for easy cleanup, then place a cooling rack on top. Spritz the rack lightly with nonstick spray to keep your bacon from sticking as it crisps up.
Step 2: Bake the First Side of Bacon
Lay the thick-cut bacon strips in a single layer across the rack, making sure they don’t overlap so each piece crisps evenly. Pop the bacon into the oven and bake for 10 minutes to start rendering the fat and partially cooking the meat.
Step 3: Flip and Continue Cooking
After the initial bake, carefully flip each piece of bacon over and return the pan to the oven for another 5 minutes. This extra time ensures the bacon cooks evenly on both sides before adding the sugary glaze.
Step 4: Mix the Sweet and Spicy Glaze
While the bacon cooks, whisk together the brown sugar, maple syrup, and coarsely ground black pepper in a small bowl. This glaze is the heart of your Candied Bacon Recipe, providing that glossy, caramelized coating that sticks to the meat perfectly.
Step 5: Glaze and Finish Baking
Remove the bacon from the oven and spoon the sugar mixture evenly over one side of the strips. Return the pan and bake for another 20 to 30 minutes. Keep an eye on it—the bacon should be crisp and caramelized but not burnt. The sweet glaze will bubble and harden into that classic candied texture.
Step 6: Cool and Enjoy
Once the bacon is cooked to your desired crispness, let it cool on the rack for about 5 minutes. This cooling time helps the sugar coating set so the bacon holds its irresistible crunch. Now you’re ready to dig in!
How to Serve Candied Bacon Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt or a few fresh herbs like chopped parsley on top to add a contrast of texture and color. The slight saltiness emphasizes the sweetness of the glaze, creating a sophisticated flavor profile.
Side Dishes
Candied bacon pairs wonderfully with savory brunch favorites such as fluffy scrambled eggs, creamy grits, or buttery pancakes. It’s also fantastic alongside roasted vegetables or salads to add that sweet-salty crunch that lifts the entire meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your Candied Bacon Recipe into bite-sized appetizers by wrapping pieces around dates, stuffing them with cream cheese, or crumbling over a warm mac and cheese. You can also chop it finely and use it as a topping on burgers or homemade pizzas to surprise your guests with little bursts of sweetness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover candied bacon, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and crisp for up to 3 days, making it easy to enjoy later without losing that perfect texture.
Freezing
You can freeze candied bacon for longer storage by layering pieces on parchment paper inside a freezer-safe bag or container. When stored properly, it keeps well for up to one month. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To bring back the crispiness, warm your leftover candied bacon in a skillet over medium heat or lay it on a foil-lined baking sheet and heat it in a 350°F oven for about 5 to 7 minutes. Avoid the microwave for reheating since it can make the bacon chewy instead of crispy.
FAQs
Can I use regular sliced bacon instead of thick-cut?
Absolutely! While thick-cut bacon holds up best for candied bacon, regular sliced bacon can also work fine. Just keep a close eye on it as thinner slices may cook faster and become too crispy or burnt.
Is maple syrup necessary for the glaze?
Maple syrup adds a lovely depth and natural sweetness that’s hard to replicate. However, if you don’t have any, honey or agave syrup can be used as alternatives with slightly different flavor nuances.
How spicy does the black pepper make the bacon?
The coarsely ground black pepper provides a gentle kick that balances the sweetness but does not make the bacon spicy hot. You can reduce or increase the amount based on your personal taste.
Can this recipe be doubled for a crowd?
Yes, the recipe scales well. Just make sure to use larger baking sheets or bake in batches so the bacon lays flat and cooks evenly without overlapping.
What’s the best way to prevent the sugar from burning?
Baking at 375°F and monitoring the last 10 minutes closely will help prevent burning. The sugar syrup bubbles and caramelizes quickly, so keeping a watchful eye ensures perfectly candied bacon every time.
Final Thoughts
This Candied Bacon Recipe is a delightful way to elevate a breakfast classic or add flair to any meal. Its perfect blend of sweet, salty, and peppery flavors with that satisfying crunch will make it a staple in your kitchen. I can’t wait for you to try it and fall in love with candied bacon all over again!
