Candied Bacon is the perfect mix of sweet, salty, and crispy. Each strip of smoky bacon is coated with brown sugar and baked until caramelized and shiny. Whether served at brunch, crumbled over desserts, or enjoyed as a snack, it’s a treat that always disappears fast. This recipe is easy, requires only a few ingredients, and fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.
Ingredients
-
1 pound thick-cut bacon
-
½ cup brown sugar (light or dark)
-
1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional for extra flavor)
-
½ teaspoon black pepper (optional for a little spice)
Cooking Time
-
Prep time: 5 minutes
-
Cook time: 25–30 minutes
-
Total time: 35 minutes
Serving
-
Serves 6
Instructions
-
Preheat the oven:
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup and place a wire rack on top. -
Prepare the bacon:
Lay the bacon strips in a single layer on the wire rack. This allows air to circulate and the bacon to crisp evenly. -
Add the coating:
Sprinkle brown sugar evenly over each strip of bacon. If you like, drizzle with maple syrup and add a pinch of black pepper for a hint of spice. -
Bake:
Place the pan in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the bacon is deep golden and the sugar is bubbling and caramelized. -
Cool:
Let the bacon cool on the rack for a few minutes — it will firm up as it cools and become perfectly crisp and glossy.
Tips
-
Use thick-cut bacon for the best texture and flavor balance.
-
Add a touch of cayenne pepper if you like a spicy-sweet combination.
-
Store leftovers (if there are any!) in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Nutrition (per serving)
-
Calories: 210
-
Protein: 6g
-
Carbohydrates: 10g
-
Fat: 16g
-
Sugar: 9g
This Candied Bacon is a crowd-pleaser — sweet, smoky, and crisp in every bite. It’s a simple recipe that turns ordinary bacon into something unforgettable.
