Are you a sweet tooth who loves to indulge in savory treats? Look no further! Candied bacon has taken the culinary world by storm, and for good reason. This addictive ingredient adds a depth of flavor and texture to any dish that’s simply impossible to resist.
From classic maple glazed strips to bold bourbon-infused bites, we’ve rounded up 20 irresistible candied bacon recipes to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet and tangy, smoky and spicy, or crunchy and nutty, these mouthwatering treats have got you covered.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at each of these delicious recipes, including Maple Glazed Candied Bacon Strips, Brown Sugar and Chili Candied Bacon, Honey Mustard Candied Bacon Bites, and many more. So go ahead, indulge your sweet tooth, and get ready to fall in love with the irresistible charm of candied bacon!
Maple Glazed Candied Bacon Strips
Elevate your breakfast or brunch game with these sweet and savory maple glazed candied bacon strips. Perfect for topping salads, sandwiches, or enjoying on their own as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and cinnamon until well combined.
4. Place the bacon slices on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Brush the maple glaze evenly over both sides of the bacon strips.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crispy and caramelized.
7. Remove from oven and let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Brown Sugar and Chili Candied Bacon
Elevate your breakfast or snack game with this sweet and spicy candied bacon recipe. The perfect combination of brown sugar, chili flakes, and smoky bacon will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound thick-cut bacon
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons chili flakes
– 1 tablespoon maple syrup
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
3. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, chili flakes, and cinnamon.
4. Place the bacon slices on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Sprinkle the brown sugar mixture evenly over the bacon, making sure each slice is coated.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the bacon reaches your desired level of crispiness.
7. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Honey Mustard Candied Bacon Bites
Sweet and savory, these Honey Mustard Candied Bacon Bites are the perfect combination of textures and flavors. Perfect as a snack or appetizer, they’re sure to be a hit at any gathering!
Ingredients:
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, and black pepper until well combined.
3. Cut the bacon into 1-inch pieces. Place on prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Drizzle the honey-mustard mixture evenly over the bacon, making sure each piece is coated.
5. Sprinkle brown sugar over the bacon.
6. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until crispy and caramelized.
7. Remove from oven and let cool completely on a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Bourbon Infused Candied Bacon
Elevate your breakfast or snack game with this sweet and savory recipe that combines the rich flavors of bourbon and candied bacon. Perfect for brunch gatherings or as a unique gift.
Ingredients:
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey (such as Maker’s Mark)
– 1 tablespoon maple syrup
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, granulated sugar, and smoked paprika.
3. Lay the bacon slices on the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle the sugar mixture evenly over each slice, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Bake for 30 minutes or until the bacon reaches your desired level of crispiness.
5. While the bacon is baking, whisk together bourbon whiskey and maple syrup in a small saucepan.
6. Remove the bacon from the oven and brush the bourbon-mapsle mixture evenly over each slice.
7. Return the bacon to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes or until caramelized.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Pecan Crusted Candied Bacon
Elevate your breakfast or snack game with this sweet and savory treat! Crunchy pecans coat tender candied bacon for a delightful flavor combination.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound thick-cut bacon, such as applewood-smoked
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, granulated sugar, and salt.
4. Lay the bacon slices on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Sprinkle the sugar mixture evenly over the bacon, leaving a 1-inch border around each slice.
6. Top with chopped pecans, pressing gently to adhere.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the sugar is caramelized and the bacon is crispy.
8. Remove from oven and brush with honey while still warm.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cinnamon Spiced Candied Bacon
Elevate your breakfast or snack game with this sweet and savory treat: Cinnamon Spiced Candied Bacon! A simple combination of crispy bacon, sugar, and spices creates a deliciously addictive condiment.
Ingredients:
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Lay the bacon slices on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
4. In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
5. Sprinkle the sugar mixture evenly over the bacon slices.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the sugar is caramelized.
7. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Sriracha Candied Bacon
Elevate your breakfast game with this sweet and spicy twist on classic candied bacon.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound thick-cut bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons Sriracha sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together sugar, honey, Sriracha sauce, brown sugar, and smoked paprika.
3. Add the bacon pieces to the mixture and toss until evenly coated.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lay the bacon strips flat in a single layer.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until crispy.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely on a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vanilla Bean Candied Bacon
This recipe combines the richness of candied bacon with the warmth of vanilla bean, creating a unique and delicious snack or topping for your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Remove the saucepan from heat and add the split vanilla bean. Let it steep for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange bacon slices on the sheet in a single layer.
5. Pour the vanilla-infused sugar mixture evenly over the bacon, making sure each slice is coated.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the bacon reaches your desired level of crispiness.
7. Remove from oven and sprinkle with brown sugar. Let it cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chocolate Drizzled Candied Bacon
Elevate your snack game with this unexpected yet indulgent treat. Crispy bacon meets sweet and sticky candying, finished with a rich chocolate drizzle.
Ingredients:
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon light corn syrup
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cook bacon slices for 15-20 minutes, or until crispy. Let cool completely.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, water, corn syrup, and vanilla extract. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Remove candying mixture from heat and let cool slightly. Dip each bacon slice into the mixture, coating evenly.
5. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
6. Drizzle melted chocolate over the candied bacon slices. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes (including cooking time)
Candied Bacon and Apple Skewers
Sweet and savory, these Candied Bacon and Apple Skewers are perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion. With the crispy candied bacon and tender apples on each skewer, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 1 large apple, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 10 wooden skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, honey, and Dijon mustard.
4. Wrap each bacon slice around an apple piece, leaving a small space at the top.
5. Place a spoonful of the sugar mixture on top of the bacon.
6. Thread onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Rosemary Infused Candied Bacon
This sweet and savory recipe adds a fragrant twist to traditional candied bacon, perfect for topping salads, sandwiches, or enjoying as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped (about 2 teaspoons)
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, honey, and chopped rosemary.
3. Place the bacon slices on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the rosemary-infused sugar mixture evenly onto each slice.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until crispy and caramelized.
5. Remove from oven and let cool completely. Break into pieces and serve.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Orange Zest Candied Bacon
Elevate your breakfast or snack game with this sweet and savory twist on classic candied bacon, infused with the brightness of orange zest.
Ingredients:
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons orange juice (freshly squeezed or bottled)
– 1 tablespoon orange zest (from about 1 medium-sized orange)
– 1 tablespoon water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, mix together sugar, orange juice, and orange zest until well combined.
3. Lay the bacon slices on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Brush the sugar mixture evenly over each bacon slice, making sure they’re fully coated.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and caramelized.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Smoky Chipotle Candied Bacon
Smoky Chipotle Candied Bacon Recipe
Summary:
Elevate your breakfast or snack game with this sweet and smoky bacon recipe, infused with the bold flavors of chipotle peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound thick-cut bacon
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, and honey until well combined.
4. Add the minced chipotle peppers and stir until they’re evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
5. Lay the bacon strips on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
6. Brush the chipotle-sugar mixture evenly onto both sides of the bacon, making sure to coat it completely.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until crispy and caramelized.
8. Remove from the oven and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Candied Bacon and Walnut Clusters
Elevate your snack game with these crunchy, sweet, and smoky clusters featuring candied bacon and toasted walnuts. Perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a thoughtful gift.
Ingredients:
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cook bacon slices in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until crispy. Let cool completely.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, water, vinegar, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in brown sugar until dissolved.
5. Add cooled bacon and walnuts to the saucepan. Stir until everything is well coated with the candied mixture.
6. Spread the clusters onto the prepared baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes (including prep and cooking time)
Ginger Glazed Candied Bacon
Elevate your snacks or meals with this sweet and savory treat that combines the richness of bacon with the warmth of ginger. This recipe yields a crispy, candied bacon glazed in a sticky ginger syrup.
Ingredients:
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Lay the bacon slices on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each slice.
4. In a small saucepan, combine brown sugar, honey, grated ginger, apple cider vinegar, and black pepper. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
5. Brush the ginger glaze evenly over the bacon slices.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the bacon reaches your desired level of crispiness.
7. Remove from oven and let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Candied Bacon Stuffed Dates
Elevate your snack game with this unique and flavorful treat that combines the natural sweetness of dates with the smoky goodness of candied bacon.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pitted dates
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Stuff each date with about 1-2 tablespoons of crumbled bacon.
3. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, honey, and cinnamon.
4. Spoon the sweet mixture evenly over the bacon-stuffed dates.
5. Place the stuffed dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the sweet topping is caramelized and the dates are tender.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lavender Honey Candied Bacon
Elevate your breakfast or snack game with this unique and delicious recipe that combines the richness of bacon, the sweetness of honey, and the subtle flavor of lavender.
Ingredients:
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons lavender syrup (or 1 teaspoon dried lavender buds)
– 2 tablespoons pure honey
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a small bowl, mix together sugar, lavender syrup (or dried lavender), and honey until well combined.
4. Place the bacon slices on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Brush the sweet mixture evenly onto both sides of the bacon.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until caramelized and crispy.
7. Remove from oven and sprinkle with brown sugar. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Candied Bacon and Dark Chocolate Bark
Transform plain dark chocolate bark into a decadent treat by adding crispy candied bacon and other sweet and salty elements. This unique combination is perfect for adventurous eaters looking to mix things up.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of sea salt
– Optional: chopped nuts, dried cranberries, or other mix-ins
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cook the bacon slices for 15-20 minutes, or until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the chocolate chips. Stir in granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract.
4. Once the chocolate is smooth, stir in the cooked bacon, sea salt, and any desired mix-ins (if using).
5. Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
6. Break the bark into pieces and serve.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes (including cooking time for bacon)
Caramelized Candied Bacon Pancakes
Elevate your pancake game with caramelized candied bacon pancakes that will satisfy both sweet and savory cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 6 slices of candied bacon, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and crumbled candied bacon.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Brush the melted butter onto the skillet or griddle.
6. Using 1/4 cup measuring cups, scoop batter onto the skillet or griddle.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
8. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Candied Bacon Wrapped Asparagus
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of asparagus with the smoky, savory flavor of candied bacon, creating a unique and delicious side dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Wrap each asparagus spear with a slice of candied bacon, securing with toothpicks if needed.
4. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar and maple syrup. Brush the mixture evenly onto the bacon-wrapped asparagus.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the asparagus and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the asparagus is tender and the bacon is crispy.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in sweet and savory delight with these 20 irresistible candied bacon recipes! From classic maple glazed strips to innovative bourbon infused bites, there’s something for every sweet lover. Try pairing crunchy candied bacon with tender apple slices on skewers or wrap it around asparagus for a decadent side dish. For dessert-lovers, drizzle chocolate over crispy candied bacon or crunch into walnut clusters. Whether you’re in the mood for spicy, smoky, or simply sweet, these recipes will satisfy your cravings.
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
