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Forget regular bacon; try this addictive twist! This recipe combines smoky bacon with a sweet and sticky maple glaze. Ready in 30 minutes, it’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or salads.

This recipe pairs the smoky goodness of bacon with the irresistible sweetness of maple syrup and brown sugar. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a snack or versatile topping that’s sure to please. As the bacon bakes in the oven, the glaze caramelizes to perfection, resulting in crispy, caramelized perfection with every bite. Whether craving a savory treat or adding a hint of sweetness to your favorite dishes, this candied bacon is a must-try.

What type of bacon works best for candied bacon?

The type of bacon you choose can significantly impact the outcome of your candied bacon. While any bacon will work, thick-cut bacon offers a more satisfying experience due to its meatiness and ability to withstand caramelization. The thickness allows the bacon to crisp up beautifully while retaining a chewy texture, resulting in a perfect balance of crunch and tenderness. Leaner options may not caramelize effectively and can become overly crispy or dry.

What alternative sugars can I use for this recipe?

While maple syrup and brown sugar are traditional ingredients for candied bacon, there are several alternatives you can use to customize the flavor profile.

• Coconut Sugar: With its caramel-like flavor, coconut sugar can add a rich depth to your candied bacon.
• Granulated Sugar: While not as complex in flavor as other alternatives, granulated sugar can still work well for candied bacon. It provides a straightforward sweetness and helps achieve a crispy texture when baked.
• Honey: Honey offers a natural sweetness with floral undertones that can complement the smoky saltiness of bacon. Its sticky texture helps create a glossy coating on the bacon when baked, resulting in a delightful caramelization.
• Agave Nectar: Agave nectar offers a mild sweetness with hints of caramel.
• Molasses: For a bold and robust flavor, consider using molasses in your candied bacon recipe. Its dark, dense texture adds depth, complexity, and a slightly bitter undertone that balances the sweetness.
• Date Syrup: Made from dates, this natural sweetener offers a rich, caramel-like flavor with notes of fruitiness.
• Brown Rice Syrup: With its mild sweetness and thick consistency, brown rice syrup can create a glossy coating on the bacon when baked. It’s less sweet than traditional sugars but adds a subtle sweetness that enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Sorghum Syrup: This syrup offers a unique sweetness with hints of molasses and caramel. It can impart a rich, earthy flavor to your candied bacon, adding depth and complexity to each bite.

Can we add spices to take the flavor profile in a different direction?

Absolutely! Adding spices to your candied bacon can elevate its flavor profile and take it in exciting new directions. Experiment with different spice combinations to create a custom flavor profile that suits your taste preferences. Here are a few ideas:

• Cayenne pepper: It adds a subtle heat that complements the sweetness of the maple syrup and brown sugar.
• Smoked paprika: It adds a rich, smoky flavor that pairs well with the savory notes of the bacon.
• Chipotle powder: It adds a unique smoky and spicy kick that enhances the overall complexity of the dish.

How do you store candied bacon?

• To store candied bacon, allow it to cool completely after baking. Once cooled, transfer the bacon to an airtight container or resealable plastic bag, placing parchment paper between each layer to prevent sticking.
• Store the candied bacon in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
• To reheat, place the bacon on a baking sheet and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until heated.

Candied Maple Brown Sugar, Bacon – The Recipe

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Servings: 4

Ingredients

8 slices of bacon

¼ cup maple syrup

2 tbsp. brown sugar

Pinch of ground black pepper

Bacon candy Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Lay the bacon slices on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring they don’t overlap.
3. Mixe syrup, brown sugar, and a pinch of ground black pepper.
4. Brush o in a small bowl and drizzle the maple syrup mixture evenly over each bacon slice.
5. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
6. Remove it from the oven once the bacon is cooked to your desired crispiness and the edges are slightly caramelized.
7. Allow the candied bacon to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring it to a serving platter.
8. Serve the candied maple brown sugar bacon immediately as a delicious sweet and savory snack or a topping for breakfast dishes like pancakes or salads.