This bacon maple sweet spicy recipe turns ordinary bacon into a crispy, sticky, flavor-packed treat. The salty crunch of bacon meets the rich sweetness of maple syrup, balanced with a touch of heat from chili flakes or cayenne. It’s the perfect mix of savory, sweet, and spicy in every bite. You can serve it as a breakfast upgrade, crumble it over salads, or even chop it into bits for topping desserts like donuts or ice cream. It’s simple to prepare and always a crowd favorite.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Serving: 6
Ingredients
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1 pound thick-cut bacon
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1/3 cup pure maple syrup
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1/4 cup brown sugar
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1 tsp smoked paprika
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1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (or red chili flakes for a milder kick)
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1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top.
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Arrange bacon slices in a single layer on the rack.
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In a small bowl, mix maple syrup, brown sugar, smoked paprika, cayenne, and black pepper.
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Brush the mixture evenly over the bacon strips.
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Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until bacon is caramelized and crispy. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
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Let bacon cool slightly on the rack—it will firm up as it cools into a candied texture.
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Serve warm or at room temperature.
Nutrition (per slice, approx.)
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Calories: 180
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Protein: 6 g
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Fat: 13 g
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Carbohydrates: 9 g
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Sugar: 8 g
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Sodium: 320 mg
Tips
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For extra crunch, sprinkle bacon with sesame seeds before baking.
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Use thinner bacon if you like it crispier; thick-cut works best for chewy caramelized edges.
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Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
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Re-crisp by baking for a few minutes in a hot oven.
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This makes a great edible gift wrapped in parchment and tied with twine.
