Candied Bacon — The Ultimate Sweet & Salty Snack Everyone Loves!
If you’ve never tried candied bacon, get ready to fall in love. This recipe transforms ordinary bacon into a glossy, caramelized, crispy treat that’s both sweet and savory — like dessert and breakfast rolled into one. Known as “millionaire’s bacon,” it’s a crowd-pleaser that fits perfectly on brunch tables, party platters, or even as a luxurious snack.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound (450 g) thick-cut bacon
- ½ cup (100 g) brown sugar (light or dark, packed)
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup (optional but highly recommended)
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- 1 tablespoon honey (for brushing at the end, optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top. This allows the bacon to cook evenly and the fat to drip off while it caramelizes beautifully.
Step 2: Prepare the Candied Mixture
In a small bowl, mix together:
- brown sugar
- maple syrup
- black pepper
- cayenne pepper
Stir until it forms a thick, sticky paste. This mixture will coat the bacon and give it that signature glossy, candy-like texture.
Step 3: Coat the Bacon
Lay the bacon slices flat on the wire rack (avoid overlapping).
Using a pastry brush or spoon, spread the sugar mixture evenly over each slice.
Make sure every piece gets a generous coating — this is what gives the bacon that deep caramel flavor.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Place the tray in the center rack of the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, depending on the thickness of your bacon.
Tip: Keep an eye on it after 18 minutes — sugar burns easily. You want a deep amber color, not black.
If the bacon still looks pale, bake an extra 3–5 minutes. It will crisp up as it cools.
Step 5: Glaze & Cool
Once baked, remove from the oven and drizzle with honey for extra shine and sweetness.
Let the bacon cool on the rack for 10 minutes — it will firm up and become perfectly crisp and sticky.
Serving Ideas:
- Brunch Upgrade: Serve alongside pancakes, waffles, or scrambled eggs.
- Snack Time: Dip in dark chocolate or drizzle with chili flakes for a gourmet twist.
- Cocktail Garnish: Use a strip of candied bacon as a bold garnish for Bloody Marys or bourbon drinks.
- Burger Topper: Add a slice on top of a cheeseburger for that sweet-salty kick.
Pro Tips for the Best Candied Bacon:
- Use thick-cut bacon — thin slices burn before they caramelize.
- Use a rack — it ensures crispness and even coating.
- Let it cool fully before serving — the sugar hardens as it cools, giving that perfect crunch.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days (though they rarely last that long!).
Variations to Try:
- Spicy Maple Bacon: Add ½ tsp chili powder or smoked paprika.
- Brown Sugar Bourbon Bacon: Mix a tablespoon of bourbon into your sugar glaze.
- Cinnamon Sugar Bacon: Sprinkle with cinnamon for a breakfast-style twist.
- Chocolate-Dipped Bacon: Once cooled, dip one end in melted chocolate for an indulgent dessert snack.