The Best Candied Bacon Recipe
This candied bacon is sweet, crispy, and coated in brown sugar for the perfect balance of flavor. An easy oven-baked recipe that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or snacking! If you’ve never had candied bacon before, just know, you’re about to be hooked!
For more delicious ways to enjoy bacon, try my mouthwatering Bacon Jam, this easy Bacon Gravy, and Texas Twinkies (Bacon Wrapped Jalapeños with Brisket).
What is Candied Bacon
Candied Bacon, also known as Pig Candy or Million Dollar Bacon, is thick bacon slathered in something sweet like brown sugar and maple syrup. It’s baked until crispy and caramelized, creating the perfect balance of smoky, salty, and sweet flavors. It is coated in sugar (usually brown sugar) and baked until crispy, creating a sweet and savory combination with a caramelized coating.
Ingredients for Candy Bacon
- Thick Cut Bacon: Using thick cut bacon is key for this recipe. Thinner slices won’t hold up well with the brown sugar and maple syrup, leading to uneven cooking. Thick cut ensures your candied bacon is crispy with a hearty, meaty chew. While it takes a bit longer to cook, the texture and flavor are worth it.
- Brown Sugar: Adds the signature caramelized sweetness. Light or dark brown sugar can be used depending on your preference for a subtle or deeper molasses flavor.
- Maple Syrup: Enhances the sweetness and adds a hint of smoky richness. Pure maple syrup is best for authentic flavor.
- Cayenne Pepper: Provides a subtle kick of heat that’s optional but highly recommended. It won’t make the bacon spicy, but it adds complexity to balance the sweetness.
How to Make Candied Bacon
See recipe card for ingredient quantities and full instructions.
Making bacon in the oven is the best way to cook it! You don’t have to worry about bacon drippings splattering all over the place on the stovetop. The bacon also stays flat instead of curling up.
I start by laying my bacon flat on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Then I sprinkle both sides with the brown sugar to evenly coat each piece.
Next, I either drizzle or brush on the maple syrup to each side. I dust the cayenne pepper onto each slice of bacon.
I bake it in the oven for about ten minutes, take it out and flip each piece. Then I bake them for an additional seven minutes.
Finally, remove the bacon from the oven. Place them in a single layer on a cooling rack to drain any extra oil.
How to Make Bacon Candy in the Air Fryer
Add an air fryer lining if you have one, or use a piece of foil. Then place your bacon in a single layer and put it on the bake setting at 350 degrees. Cook it for about seven minutes, flip it over and cook for another five minutes.
Remove it from the air fryer and place on a cooling rack to drain any excess oil.
Pro Tips
- Use thick-cut bacon so it doesn’t burn before caramelizing
- Don’t skip the wire rack, it helps the bacon cook evenly
- Keep an eye on it toward the end to avoid burning
- Let it cool before touching, it gets sticky and hot
- Line your pan with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup
Storage
Once your candied bacon has completely cooled, store it in an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it in a low oven (about 300°F) to restore some crispness before serving.
How to Serve Candied Bacon
- Salad: Chop the candied bacon into bite-sized pieces and sprinkle it over mixed greens or spinach for a sweet and smoky crunch. It pairs great with vinaigrette-based dressings.
- Deviled Eggs: Add a small piece of candied bacon on top of each deviled egg as a garnish. The salty-sweet flavor complements the creamy egg filling perfectly.
- French Toast: Serve candied bacon on the side of French toast, or crumble it on top along with syrup for a decadent breakfast twist.
- Cocktails: Use candied bacon as an edible garnish for Bloody Marys or other savory cocktails for a unique, smoky-sweet addition.
- Charcuterie Board: Include candied bacon as part of a charcuterie spread. It pairs well with cheeses, fruits, and nuts for a flavorful variety.
- Sandwiches: Layer candied bacon on burgers, BLTs, or breakfast sandwiches for an extra burst of flavor.
FAQ
Does candy bacon have to be refrigerated?
Yes, candied bacon should be refrigerated to prevent bacterial growth. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days to maintain freshness and safety.
How do I keep the bacon from sticking to the pan?
Lining your sheet pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil sprayed with non-stick spray will prevent sticking. This also makes cleanup much easier after the bacon is done.
Do I need to flip the bacon while it bakes?
Yes, flipping the bacon halfway through ensures even cooking and caramelization on both sides. This step helps achieve the perfect balance of crispy and sticky.
Crispy Candied Bacon
Ingredients
- 1 pack Thick cut bacon
- 1/2 cup Brown sugar
- 1/2 cup Maple syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon Cayenne pepper, optional
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Cover a 9×13 sheet pan with non-stick spray or parchment paper.
- Spread the bacon out in one layer across the sheet pan, placing each slice really close but not overlapping.
- Sprinkle the bacon evenly with the brown sugar, and then drizzle the maple syrup over each piece. Repeat this on both sides of the bacon.
- Place the sheet pan in the oven and bake for 10 mins. Remove it from the oven, flip the bacon and bake for additional 7 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and place the bacon flat on a cooling rack to drain any excess grease. Enjoy!
Notes
Equipment
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Oh my goodness this bacon was addicting it was sooo good! My kids are begging me to make it again. Thank you for sharing the recipe.
Oh my goodness! I made this for my Dad and he absolutely LOVED this!!!!!! Sooooo addicting!!!!
I’m so glad you guys liked it as much as we do!
I absolutely loved this recipe! We are bacon lovers already, but this was just like eating candy! Thank you for sharing this with me