Candied Maple Bacon Recipe

Name: Candied Maple Bacon Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: ½ pound bacon; ¼ cup pure maple syrup; 2 Tablespoons brown sugar; Dash of black pepper

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Have you ever made candied bacon? It's one of my favorite ways to prepare bacon if I feel indulgent. If you're a fan of that perfect combination of sweet and salty, you're in for a treat with this Candied Maple Bacon Recipe.

This easy candied bacon recipe is a game-changer, adding a delicious twist to your regular bacon routine. Get ready for a perfect addition to your next brunch spread, a sensational side to my Brioche French toast casserole, or simply as an addictive snack. I'm convinced you will think this is the best candied maple bacon recipe.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Maple candied bacon, also known as "pig candy" or "bacon candy," is a salty treat that combines maple syrup's rich flavors and crispy bacon. This recipe strikes the ideal balance between sweet and savory, creating crispy edges with a candied coating that'll have you reaching for seconds (and thirds). With simple ingredients and an easy cooking process, this salty treat is a must-try for bacon enthusiasts.

Whether hosting brunch or craving a delicious snack, this easy recipe will impress.

A crispy piece of candied maple bacon that has been cooked and is glistening with caramelized maple coating and specs of black pepper visible.

Substitutions

While thick-cut bacon works wonders for this recipe, you can also experiment with regular bacon or thinner slices based on your preferences.
Dark brown sugar can be used in this recipe instead of light brown sugar.

Variations

Smoky Flavor - If you're looking for a slightly different flavor profile, try using bacon with a hint of smokiness or add a touch of Dijon mustard to the maple syrup mix.
Millionaire's Bacon - If you prefer a bit of heat, make a version of candied bacon called million-dollar bacon. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the brown sugar mixture for a spicy kick.
For a twist on this classic recipe, consider making bacon jam using the same ingredients with an added touch of onion and a slow cooking process in a large cast iron skillet. This method helps caramelize the onions and create a thick, syrupy spread. It's a fantastic condiment for sandwiches or a unique topping for appetizers.

Is There A Difference Between Pure Maple Syrup and Regular or Pancake Syrup?

Yes. Although you can use regular or pancake syrup for this recipe, I recommend pure maple syrup because of its concentrated flavor. The only ingredient in pure maple syrup is the sap that has been extracted from the maple tree and cooked down until it's very concentrated and has a distinct maple flavor.

A regular or pancake syrup usually contains artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives that will affect how this recipe tastes.

Ingredients

*Please scroll down to the printable recipe card for specific ingredient amounts.

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1. Preheat the oven to 400℉. Line a large baking sheet with a piece of parchment paper or aluminum foil and spray with nonstick cooking spray.

Step 2. Cut the bacon strips in half and place them on the baking sheet in a single layer. Do not overlap them. Set aside.

Step 3. In a small bowl, combine the maple syrup, brown sugar, and black pepper and mix well.

Step 4. Spread the mixture over the bacon on both sides using a pastry brush.

A bowl of the combined ingredients for the bacon glaze include maple syrup, brown sugar and black pepper.

Brushing the maple glaze onto the bacon before cooking.

The bacon on a parchment lined tray, covered with maple glaze, waiting to be cooked in the oven.

Step 5. Bake for 18-20 minutes in the center of the oven.

Step 6. Let the bacon cool slightly before serving.

Storage and Freezing

Store any leftover bacon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.

Freezing is not recommended.

Pro Tip

To achieve the perfect maple-candied bacon, lay the bacon strips in a single layer without overlapping them.

Use a rimmed baking pan, not a flat cookie sheet or baking pan. The sides will contain the drippings as the bacon cooks.

Line a large rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil and drape it over the edges. It will help with an easy clean up after the bacon is done cooking.

A glass mason jar with strips of candied maple bacon standing upright to show the crispy texture and the caramelized maple coating,

Notes/FAQs

Can I use any type of bacon for this recipe?

Absolutely! While I recommend thick cut bacon for its meatiness and ability to hold the candied coating, thinner bacon works well too. Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of your bacon for the best results.

Should I use a wire rack for cooking the bacon?

You can, but it's not necessary. I found that it makes the bacon a little crisper because the fat can drain into the bottom of the pan, but if you want to put the strips directly on the lined pan, that works, too.

Is real maple syrup necessary for this recipe?

Using real maple syrup enhances the flavor, but regular syrup can also work well if you don't have it on hand. A good maple syrup has a deeper flavor profile with a more caramel taste than a regular pancake syrup. Additionally, pure maple syrup doesn't contain any artificial ingredients or preservatives.

Can I make maple candied bacon in an air fryer?

Sure! Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, then place the bacon strips in a single layer in the basket. Cook for 10-15 minutes, checking occasionally for desired crispiness. Since air fryers vary between manufacturers, this is just a guide, and the bacon should be carefully monitored to ensure the desired results.