Of course! Candied bacon is a glorious, sweet, salty, and smoky treat that’s incredibly easy to make. It’s the perfect combination of breakfast staple and decadent candy.
Here’s a comprehensive guide, from a classic recipe to fun variations and expert tips.
The Classic Candied Bacon Recipe
This is the foundational recipe that everyone should try first.
Yields: 4 servings
Prep time:5 minutes
Cook time:20-30 minutes
Ingredients:
· 1 pound thick-cut bacon
· 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
· 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
· 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (optional, but recommended)
· 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
Instructions:
1. Prep the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large, rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Place an oven-safe wire rack on the baking sheet. This is key for getting the bacon crispy all over.
2. Coat the Bacon: In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, maple syrup, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using) to form a thick paste. Arrange the bacon slices in a single layer on the wire rack. Using a pastry brush or your fingers, generously coat the top side of each bacon slice with the sugar mixture.
3. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for 15-25 minutes. The cooking time varies greatly depending on the thickness of your bacon and your desired crispiness.
4. Check for Doneness: The bacon is done when it looks dark, caramelized, and bubbly. The sugar will be melted and glossy. It will harden as it cools.
5. Cool and Crisp: Carefully remove the pan from the oven. Let the bacon cool on the wire rack for at least 5-10 minutes. It will crisp up significantly as it cools.
6. Serve: Once cool and crisp, break into pieces and serve.
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Flavor Variations to Try
Once you’ve mastered the classic, get creative!
· Spicy & Smoky: Use 2 tablespoons brown sugar and 2 tablespoons maple syrup. Add 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika and 1/4-1/2 teaspoon chipotle powder.
· Coffee-Glazed: Replace 1 tablespoon of the brown sugar with 1 tablespoon of finely ground espresso or dark roast coffee.
· “Everything Bagel” Candied Bacon: Coat the bacon with a mixture of brown sugar and 1 tablespoon of everything bagel seasoning before baking.
· Bourbon Maple: Add 1 tablespoon of bourbon to the maple syrup and brown sugar mixture.
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Key Tips for Perfect Candied Bacon
· Thick-Cut is Best: Thin bacon will burn before the sugar has time to properly caramelize. Thick-cut bacon provides the perfect balance of meaty texture and crispy candy coating.
· The Wire Rack is Non-Negotiable: Elevating the bacon allows hot air to circulate, cooking it evenly and preventing it from sitting in a pool of rendered fat. This is the secret to crispiness.
· Don’t Walk Away: The line between perfectly caramelized and burnt is thin. Keep a close eye on it, especially in the last 5 minutes of cooking.
· It Hardens as it Cools: The bacon will be soft when it comes out of the oven. Resist the urge to eat it immediately! Let it cool on the rack; it will transform into a perfect, crispy, snappy treat.
· Storage: Store any leftovers (unlikely!) in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days. It may lose some crispness but will still be delicious.
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How to Use Candied Bacon
It’s incredible on its own, but it can elevate so many dishes:
· Breakfast: Crumble over pancakes, waffles, or French toast. Add to a breakfast hash.
· Salads: Crumble over a classic Cobb salad or a spinach salad with a warm vinaigrette.
· Burgers & Sandwiches: Use as a gourmet topping on a burger or a BLT.
· Appetizers: Skewer small pieces with cheese and fruit for a killer appetizer.
· Desserts: Use as a garnish for ice cream sundaes, or incorporate into chocolate bark or cookies.
· Bloody Mary: The ultimate garnish for a classic Bloody Mary.
Enjoy your journey into the wonderful world of sweet, salty, smoky perfection