Candied Bacon

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Candied bacon (also called pig candy and bacon candy) can add a delicious sweet and savory flavor to a variety of dishes--or just enjoyed on its own. It's sweet, salty and savory--and so easy to make.

This easy candied bacon recipe is clutch for any brunch party because the bacon can be cooked ahead, held on baking sheets, then reheated right before everyone guests arrive.

Essential Ingredients

Bacon: Opt for thick-cut bacon slices as they hold up better to the candying process and provide a satisfying texture contrast between the crispy edges and the chewy center. The thickness of your bacon slices matters.

Brown sugar: Brown sugar works best for candying bacon due to its molasses content, which adds a rich flavor and helps caramelize the bacon as it bakes. Either light brown sugar or dark brown sugar will work.

Recipe Tips

Line the baking sheet: Lining your rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper. It’s going to save you a ton of time cleaning up so you won’t have to scrub off hardened caramelized sugar on the bottom of your sheet pan.

Single Layer: Be sure the bacon slices are arranged in a single layer on the baking sheet for optimal crisping.

Monitor Carefully: Keep a close eye on the bacon as it cooks to prevent burning. The sugar can go from caramelized to burnt very quickly, so check on the bacon frequently, especially towards the end of the cooking time. Remove the bacon from the oven as soon as it reaches your desired level of crispiness and caramelization.

Let it Cool: Allow the bacon to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack to cool completely. This will help the bacon firm up and develop its signature crunchy texture.

Experiment with Flavor: You can experiment with adding spices like cinnamon, black pepper, cayenne pepper, chili powder, or smoked paprika to the brown sugar for additional flavor depth.

Recipe FAQs

Can I make the spicy candied bacon?

Yes, you can add some cayenne pepper along with the brown sugar. This version is called millionaire's bacon or million-dollar bacon.

How do I store the bacon?

Store the cooled candied bacon in an airtight container at cool room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat it in the oven or microwave for a few seconds until crispy.

Ten Ways to Use Candied Bacon

The bacon can add a delicious sweet and savory flavor to a variety of dishes. Here are ten creative ways to enjoy it:

1. BLT Sandwich: Upgrade your classic BLT sandwich by adding candied bacon slices. The sweetness of the candied bacon complements the savory flavors of the bacon, lettuce, and tomato.

2. Caesar Salad: Add candied bacon crumbles to your Caesar salad for an unexpected burst of flavor and crunch. It adds a delightful twist to this traditional salad.

3. Charcuterie Board: Add candied bacon strips to any charcuterie board; stand them up in a tall glass for a dramatic effect.

4. Brussels Sprouts: Roast Brussels sprouts with candied bacon pieces for a flavorful side dish. The sweetness of the maple bacon balances the bitterness of the Brussels sprouts.

5. Breakfast Burrito: Add chopped candied bacon to your breakfast burrito for a sweet and savory twist. It pairs well with scrambled eggs, cheese, and veggies.

6. Bourbon Ice Cream: Fold chopped candied bacon into homemade or store-bought bourbon ice cream for a decadent treat. The combination of creamy ice cream, rich bourbon, and crunchy bacon is heavenly.

7. Chocolate Bark: Melt dark chocolate and spread it onto a baking sheet. Sprinkle chopped candied bacon on top, then refrigerate until set. Break into pieces for a delicious sweet and salty snack.

8. Mac and Cheese: Add chopped candied bacon to your favorite macaroni and cheese recipe for a delightful flavor boost. The sweetness of the bacon pairs perfectly with the creamy cheese sauce.

9. Maple Cupcakes: Top maple-flavored cupcakes with a swirl of cream cheese frosting and a piece of candied bacon for a unique and indulgent dessert. The combination of flavors is sure to impress your guests.

10. Bloody Mary Garnish: Candied bacon is the perfect garnish for a Bloody Mary (kind of like bacon swizzle sticks) and will immediately upgrade any Sunday brunch gathering.

These are just a few ideas to get you started, but the possibilities are endless when it comes to using this sweet and salty bacon in your cooking and baking. Feel free to experiment and have fun with it!

Comments and ratings

If you’ve tried this Candied Bacon or any other recipes on our site, please leave a comment and rating below. We love hearing from you!

Kathy Kingsley

There's nothing not to love about candied bacon! Sweet, salty and savory, and it's such an easy recipe to make. The recipe can elso asily be doubled or tripled for a crowd.

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Prep Time 5

Cook Time 20

Course Breakfast, Breakfast and Brunch

Cuisine American

Servings

Calories 193 kcal

Ingredients

▢ 6 slices thick-cut bacon
▢ 2 Tbs. pure maple syrup
▢ 1 ½ Tbs. brown sugar

Instructions

Position a rack in the center of the oven and heat the oven to 425°F.
Arrange the bacon slices in a single layer on a foil or parchment-lined rimmed baking sheet. Drizzle both sides with the maple syrup and then sprinkle both sides evenly with the sugar.
Bake until browned and crisp, 20 to 22 minutes. Set the pan on a cooling rack to let the bacon set for 1 to 2 minutes, then transfer the bacon to he cooling rack.