What is candied bacon and how does it taste?

Candied bacon is bacon coated with a sweet ingredient like brown sugar or maple syrup, then baked until the sugar caramelizes, creating a crispy, sweet, and salty flavor. It’s often enjoyed as a snack, topping for dishes, or paired with drinks, combining smoky, savory bacon with a crunchy sugary crust.

How do I make candied bacon at home?

To make candied bacon, place thick slices on a wire rack set over a foil-lined baking sheet. Sprinkle each slice generously with brown sugar and optionally add cracked black pepper. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes until the bacon edges are crisp and sugar has caramelized. Let cool before serving to allow the bacon to firm up.

Why is thick-cut bacon better for candied bacon than thin slices?

Thick-cut bacon is preferred because it cooks evenly and can handle the caramelization process without burning. Thin slices tend to cook too quickly and can burn before the sugar properly melts, resulting in uneven caramelization and less crispy bacon.

Can I use sweeteners other than brown sugar for candied bacon?

Yes, alternatives like maple syrup, honey, or granulated white sugar can be used, but brown sugar is popular for its deeper, molasses-like flavor that complements bacon well. Using liquid sweeteners like maple syrup may require adjusting baking time to prevent burning.

How should I store leftover candied bacon to keep it fresh?

Store leftover candied bacon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. For best texture, reheat briefly in the oven or toaster oven to crisp it up before serving again. Avoid storing at room temperature to prevent sogginess and maintain safety.

Candied Bacon Recipes For Sweet And Savory Snacks

Name: Candied Bacon
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: – 1 pound of thick cut bacon This forms the savory, crispy base of the snack.; – 1 cup of packed light brown sugar This caramelizes on top to give the sweet glaze.; – 1 tablespoon of black pepper Adds a subtle heat to balance the sweetness.; – 8 slices of bacon If you’re adapting the quantity for a smaller batch.; – 1/4 cup of brown sugar For a lighter sweetening option in variations.; – 1/2 tsp of black pepper To adjust the spice level if needed.; – 1/4 tsp of cayenne pepper (optional) For an extra kick that pairs well with the glaze.

Ingredients

– 1 pound of thick cut bacon This forms the savory, crispy base of the snack.

– 1 cup of packed light brown sugar This caramelizes on top to give the sweet glaze.

– 1 tablespoon of black pepper Adds a subtle heat to balance the sweetness.

– 8 slices of bacon If you’re adapting the quantity for a smaller batch.

– 1/4 cup of brown sugar For a lighter sweetening option in variations.

– 1/2 tsp of black pepper To adjust the spice level if needed.

– 1/4 tsp of cayenne pepper (optional) For an extra kick that pairs well with the glaze.

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Instructions

1-First: preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top to promote even cooking and drain excess fat.

2-Second: arrange the bacon slices in a single layer on the wire rack, ensuring they don’t overlap for maximum crispiness.

3-Third: sprinkle brown sugar evenly over each slice, then add black pepper and optional cayenne pepper for added flavor.

4-Fourth: bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, but keep an eye on it since we’re using thick cut bacon, aim for that caramelized glaze without burning, which might take up to 25 minutes as the sugar melts and the bacon crisps.

5-Fifth: remove the bacon from the oven and let it cool for 10 minutes on the baking sheet to set the glaze, then transfer it to a parchment-lined sheet to reach room temperature.

6-Finally, for dietary adaptations, swap in turkey bacon or vegan alternatives and adjust sugar amounts to fit your needs, making this recipe as flexible as your family gatherings.

Last Step:

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Notes

🔥 Use thick cut bacon for the best texture and flavor.
🍳 Keep an eye on the bacon while baking to prevent burning the sugar.
🥄 Pat the brown sugar firmly onto the bacon to help it caramelize evenly.

Author: Brandi Oshea
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooling time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Snack
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Contains Pork

Nutrition

Serving Size: 2 slices
Calories: 150 kcal
Sugar: 8 g
Sodium: 500 mg
Fat: 12 g
Saturated Fat: 4 g
Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 9 g
Fiber: 0 g
Protein: 5 g
Cholesterol: 25 mg