Candied bacon. Just the words themselves conjure images of crispy, sweet, and smoky perfection. This irresistible treat is surprisingly easy to make at home, and the results are far superior to anything you'll find in a store. This guide will walk you through the process, ensuring you achieve candied bacon that's perfectly balanced between sweet and savory.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- Bacon: Use your favorite cut – thick-cut bacon offers a wonderfully satisfying chew, but thinner cuts cook faster. Aim for about 1 pound.
- Brown Sugar: Granulated brown sugar provides the perfect caramelization and a rich molasses flavor. Use about ½ cup, but feel free to adjust to your sweetness preference.
- Maple Syrup: Real maple syrup is key! It adds a complex depth of flavor that artificial syrups can't replicate. About ¼ cup is a good starting point.
- Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper complements the sweetness and adds a subtle kick. Start with ½ teaspoon and add more to taste.
Optional additions for extra flavor:
- Cayenne Pepper: A pinch of cayenne adds a delightful warmth.
- Cinnamon: A dash of cinnamon provides a warm, comforting spice note.
- Garlic Powder: A little garlic powder enhances the savory notes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
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Prepare the bacon: Arrange the bacon slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Don't overcrowd the pan; if necessary, use two baking sheets.
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Make the candied bacon glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, maple syrup, and black pepper (and any optional spices).
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Glaze the bacon: Using a pastry brush or spoon, generously coat each bacon slice with the glaze, ensuring both sides are evenly covered.
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Bake: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the glaze is caramelized and bubbly. Keep a close eye on it during the last few minutes to prevent burning. Baking time will vary depending on the thickness of your bacon.
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Cool and serve: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the candied bacon cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This allows the glaze to set.
Tips for Perfect Candied Bacon:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding prevents even cooking and can lead to soggy bacon.
- Use high-quality ingredients: The better your ingredients, the better your candied bacon will taste.
- Adjust sweetness to your liking: Feel free to increase or decrease the amount of brown sugar and maple syrup to suit your taste.
- Experiment with spices: Don't be afraid to get creative with spices! Try different combinations to find your perfect flavor profile.
- Store properly: Store leftover candied bacon in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Serving Suggestions:
Candied bacon is incredibly versatile! Enjoy it as:
- A standalone snack: Simply enjoy it straight from the baking sheet.
- A topping for salads: Add a crunchy, sweet element to your favorite greens.
- An ingredient in appetizers: Crumble it over deviled eggs or incorporate it into a spinach and artichoke dip.
- A garnish for cocktails: Add a touch of sweet and savory to your favorite mixed drinks.
- A pizza topping: Elevate your pizza game with a unique topping.
With its irresistible combination of sweet and savory flavors, candied bacon is sure to be a hit at any gathering. So fire up your oven and get ready to enjoy this delicious treat! Now you know how to make candied bacon that will impress your friends and family.
