Candied Maple Brown Sugar Bacon

Gather around, my friends, for today we’re diving into a recipe that takes the concept of indulgence and wraps it in a crispy, glistening package. Imagine taking the savory, mouthwatering richness of bacon and elevating it with a sweet and sticky glaze of maple and brown sugar, finished with a hint of black pepper for a touch of spice. This Candied Maple Brown Sugar Bacon is a simple joy, transforming basic ingredients into a dish that’s nothing short of addictive.

candied bacon in a glass jar

Chef’s Tips

  • Watch the Oven: Due to variations in oven temperature, start checking your bacon around the 15-minute mark to ensure it doesn’t burn.
  • Extra Glaze: If you love the maple-brown sugar flavor, feel free to prepare a little extra glaze and brush it on halfway through baking for an even stickier finish.
  • Serving Suggestion: While fantastic on its own, this bacon also makes a phenomenal addition to burgers, breakfast plates, or even crumbled over salads.

Ingredients

raw bacon on a plate next to seasons

The Star

  • ½ lb bacon: Choose thick-cut bacon for a meaty bite and optimal surface area for the glaze.

The Glaze

  • ¼ cup maple syrup: Pure maple syrup brings a natural, woodsy sweetness that’s irreplaceable.
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar: Adds a molasses depth to the sweetness, complementing the maple.
  • Dash of black pepper: Just enough to cut through the sweetness and add a savory note.

Instructions

brushing sauce onto bacon strips on a pan
  1. Preparation: Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, a crucial step for achieving that perfect crispness.
  2. Prep the Pan: Line your baking sheet with parchment for easy cleanup or foil for a sturdier base, then give it a light spray with nonstick to prevent sticking.
  3. Arrange the Bacon: Cutting the strips in half ensures each piece cooks evenly and fits nicely on your serving platter.
  4. The Glaze: Mixing maple syrup, brown sugar, and black pepper creates a glaze that’s the perfect balance of sweet and savory. Brush it generously over each piece of bacon, coating both sides for maximum flavor.
  5. Bake to Perfection: Let the oven work its magic, transforming the bacon into a candied treat that’s sticky, crispy, and utterly delicious.
candied bacon in a glass jar

Substitutions

  • Maple Syrup Alternative: In a pinch, honey can substitute for maple syrup, offering a different but equally delightful sweetness.
  • Spice It Up: Feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the glaze if you like a little heat with your sweet.

Storage and Reheating

  • Storage: If you have leftovers (which might be a big if), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
  • Reheating: Warm them in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes to bring back the crispness. Microwaving is not recommended as it can make the bacon chewy.
holding a piece of bacon with bite taken out

FAQs

Can I make this with turkey bacon?

Absolutely, though keep in mind that turkey bacon may not crisp up as much as pork bacon.

Can I cook this on the stovetop?

For this recipe, oven-baking is recommended for an even candying process, but you could try pan-frying for a quicker alternative.

How do I prevent burning?

Keep a close eye on the bacon in the last few minutes of cooking, as the sugar can go from caramelized to burnt quickly.

close up view of a piece of candied bacon

Candied Maple Brown Sugar Bacon

Sea Salt Savorings
Indulge in Candied Maple Brown Sugar Bacon, a perfect blend of sweet and savory. Easy to prepare in under 25 minutes, it's the ultimate treat for bacon lovers. Ideal for brunch or as a special addition to any meal.
5 from 1 vote
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Appetizer, Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 314 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • ½ lbs. bacon
  • ¼ cup maple syrup
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • Dash of black pepper

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil and spray with nonstick
  • Cut the bacon strips in half and place on the baking sheet. Do not overlap them.
  • In a small bowl, mix the maple syrup, brown sugar and black pepper and mix until well combined.
  • Brush the mixture over the bacon on both sides.
  • Bake for 18-20 minutes in the oven

Nutrition

Calories: 314kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 7gFat: 23gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gTrans Fat: 0.1gCholesterol: 37mgSodium: 379mgPotassium: 166mgSugar: 18gVitamin A: 21IUCalcium: 30mgIron: 0.3mg

Nutrition values are estimates, for exact values consult a nutritionist.

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    5 from 1 vote (1 rating without comment)

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