The first time I made candied bacon, I was shocked that something so easy could turn out this irresistibly sweet, salty, and crispy. The combination of brown sugar, maple syrup, and just the right amount of spice creates a perfect balance of smoky, salty, and caramelized flavors. Whether you call it maple candied bacon or million-dollar bacon, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit and a crowd-pleaser.
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Why You'll Love This Candied Bacon Recipe!
What I love the most about this candied bacon recipe is how effortless it is, just a few pantry staples to make a a quick glaze and some oven time. It's perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even as a fun appetizer at parties. Every sticky, crispy bite feels like a treat — dangerously tasty!
If you've ever tried million dollar bacon from a resturant and you're wondering how to make it at home, this recipe is what you are looking for. It gives you that same crave-worthy flavor, just no restaurant required!
And if you are still having second thoughts, see these reasons why you'll fall in love with this candied bacon recipe:
- Easy to make - No fancy ingredients and complicated steps needed. This is truly easy candied bacon you can master!
- Sweet, savory, and spicy - The blend of brown sugar, maple syrup, and spices gives it a flavor that's both balanced and complex.
- Amazing texture - Sticky, crispy, and slightly chewy, everything you want in a maple-candied bacon strip or twist.
- Versatile - Enjoy it for breakfast, serve as an appetizer, crumble over salads, or snack on it.
- Make-ahead friendly - Keeps beautifully and reheats well for a quick snack or brunch addition.
Equipment Needed
- Rimmed baking sheet
- Aluminum foil
- Wire rack
- Small bowl
- Pastry brush or spoon
Key Ingredients
Bacon - Use regular or thick-cut bacon just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Brown sugar - Helps caramelize and gives the bacon its signature sweetness.
Maple syrup - Makes a beautiful glaze and also adds depth. It is essential for maple-candied bacon.
Paprika, red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper and black pepper - These spices create the perfect sweet and spicy million-dollar candied bacon flavor.
Step-By-Step Instructions
Preheat your oven to 357°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top.
Arrange the bacon strips in a single layer on the rack. Use two sheets if needed; bacon should not overlap.
Combine maple syrup, brown sugar, paprika, cayenne, black pepper, and red pepper flakes in a small bowl. Microwave for at least 30 seconds to form a smooth syrupy glaze.
Brush one side of the bacon with the glaze and bake for 15 minutes.
Remove from the oven, flip each slice, and brush them with the remaining glaze.
Bake for another 15 minutes or until the bacon reaches your preferred crispiness.
As the bacon cools, it will continue to crisp up. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Make Ahead
You can make this easy candied bacon ahead of serving time! Just cool it thoroughly, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 5 to 7 minutes to bring back the crispiness.
Storage
For longer storage, freeze the leftover candied bacon between parchment paper in an airtight container. To reheat, bake or air fry briefly to restore texture. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bacon soggy.
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Million Dollar Candied Bacon with Brown Sugar
Ingredients
- 1 pound bacon, thick cut will take longer to bake
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ½ teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375℉. Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil and set a rack overtop.
- Line the bacon on the rack in a single layer. If needed you may need to cook in batches or use two baking sheets.
- Add the brown sugar, maple syrup, cayenne, pepper, red pepper flakes and paprika in a small bowl. Microwave for 30 seconds or just long enough to heat the syrup so the brown sugar dissolves into the syrup and forms a paste.
- Brush one side of bacon with the brown sugar mixture reserving half of the glaze. Bake in the oven for 15 minutes. Remove from oven and flip the bacon and brush the other side with remaining glaze.
- Return the bacon to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes or till the bacon is the desired texture. Watch closely so that it does not burn. Thick cut bacon will take longer.
- Remove from oven and as the bacon cools it will crisp up. Serve with your favorite breakfast sides, as an appetizer or crumble and add to a salad.
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