Sweet and Spicy Candied Bacon Recipe
This recipe combines crispy, smoky bacon with a caramelized sweet and spicy glaze for an indulgent and irresistible treat. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or topping to elevate any meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- Thick-cut bacon (preferably applewood smoked)
- 1 cup (200g) brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon (5g) cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon (5g) freshly ground black pepper
- Optional: 2 tablespoons (30ml) maple syrup
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large, rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil, and place a wire rack on top.
- Arrange the bacon slices in a single layer on the wire rack. Make sure they’re not overlapping so they cook evenly.
- In a small bowl, mix 1 cup (200g) of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon (5g) of cayenne pepper, and 1 teaspoon (5g) of freshly ground black pepper.
- Sprinkle the sugar-spice mixture generously over each slice of bacon. Make sure to coat both sides for maximum flavor. Use your fingers to press the mixture into the bacon if needed.
- Optional: Drizzle 2 tablespoons (30ml) of maple syrup over the bacon for an extra layer of sweetness.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes. Rotate the tray halfway through cooking to ensure even caramelization.
- Check the bacon after 20 minutes. It should be crispy and golden brown with a caramelized glaze. If it needs more time, bake for an additional 5–10 minutes, but watch closely to avoid burning.
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the bacon cool on the wire rack for 5 minutes. The glaze will harden as it cools, creating that irresistible candied texture.
Notes
Use thick-cut bacon for the best texture and flavor. Monitor closely during the last few minutes of baking to avoid burning the sugar glaze. Let the bacon cool to achieve the perfect candied texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 7
- Sodium: 190
- Fat: 9
- Saturated Fat: 3
- Carbohydrates: 8
- Protein: 2
Keywords: candied bacon, sweet and spicy bacon, brunch recipe, appetizer, snack, bacon recipe