Description
This Candied Bacon Recipe features crispy bacon coated with a sweet and spicy pecan, brown sugar, and maple syrup glaze. The combination of crunchy pecans, warm cayenne heat, and rich maple syrup creates an irresistible treat perfect for breakfast or as a savory snack.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Candied Bacon
- ½ cup light brown sugar (lightly packed)
- ½ cup chopped or whole pecans
- ¼ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- ½ pound bacon, cut in half cross-wise
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a jelly roll pan with aluminum foil and place a baking rack on top to allow even cooking and fat drainage. Set aside.
- Prepare Pecans and Sugar Mixture: In the bowl of a food processor, add the brown sugar and pecans. Pulse until the pecans are finely chopped. Then add the ground cayenne pepper and pulse a few more times to evenly incorporate the spice.
- Partially Bake Bacon: Arrange the bacon halves on the prepared rack in a single layer, ensuring the slices do not touch. Bake for 5 minutes to render some fat and begin crisping.
- Add Sugar and Pecans: Remove the bacon from the oven and evenly spoon the pecan-brown sugar mixture over each slice of bacon.
- Drizzle Maple Syrup: Drizzle the top of the sugar-coated bacon slices with pure maple syrup for added sweetness and moisture.
- Bake Until Caramelized: Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is browned, caramelized, and crispy but not burnt.
- Drain and Serve: Transfer the candied bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess grease. Let cool to room temperature and serve.
Notes
- Keep a close eye on the bacon in the final baking stage to prevent burning from the sugar.
- Use thick-cut bacon for the best chewy, crispy texture.
- The cayenne pepper can be adjusted or omitted depending on your preferred spice level.
- Allow bacon to cool slightly; the sugar coating will harden as it cools, creating a crunchy texture.
- Store leftover candied bacon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
