Indulge in the irresistible sweet-and-savory delight of Candied Bacon, a gourmet treat perfect for brunches, snacks, or as a show-stopping appetizer. Featuring thick-cut bacon coated in a luscious glaze made from brown sugar, rich maple syrup, and a hint of black pepper, this recipe balances smoky, sugary, and spicy flavors in every bite. With optional cayenne pepper for a kick and a simple baking method that ensures perfectly caramelized slices, this dish is an effortless way to elevate your bacon game. Ready in just 35 minutes, Candied Bacon is a crowd-pleaser that's as easy to make as it is impossible to resist. Serve it as a standalone snack, crumble it over salads or desserts, or add it to a decadent charcuterie boardβthis recipe guarantees a flavor-packed experience.
Preheat the oven to 400Β°F (200Β°C) and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup. Place a wire rack on top of the lined baking sheet.
Lay the slices of bacon evenly across the wire rack, making sure they do not overlap.
In a small mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, maple syrup, ground black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir until you achieve a thick, spreadable paste.
Using a pastry brush or spoon, evenly spread the sugar mixture over each slice of bacon, ensuring it is well coated.
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Rotate the baking sheet halfway through to ensure even cooking. The bacon is done when it appears glossy and caramelized.
Once cooked, remove the bacon from the oven and let it cool on the wire rack for a few minutes. This will allow the bacon to crisp up as it cools.
After it reaches room temperature, serve the candied bacon immediately, or store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Calories |
1254 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 70.9 g | 91% | |
| Saturated Fat | 25.8 g | 129% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 129 mg | 43% | |
| Sodium | 2598 mg | 113% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 126.5 g | 46% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.7 g | 2% | |
| Total Sugars | 123.3 g | ||
| Protein | 22.8 g | 46% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 71 mg | 5% | |
| Iron | 1.9 mg | 11% | |
| Potassium | 456 mg | 10% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.