Serves 4
25 min
Sweet, Savory, Crisp Candied Bacon
Recipe GLPR49d57dc6018ad9
Crispy bacon strips coated with a sweet and smoky spice blend featuring brown sugar, smoked paprika, black pepper, and a hint of cayenne heat. This simple yet elegant dish balances sweet candy-like caramelization with bold savory flavors, creating an irresistible treat that works as an appetizer or side dish.
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Ingredients
6 center-cut bacon slices
2 tablespoons packed light brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/8 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
Directions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
In a small bowl, combine the packed light brown sugar, freshly ground black pepper, smoked paprika, and ground cayenne pepper. Mix well until evenly blended.
Arrange the 6 bacon slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart so they cook evenly.
Sprinkle the spice and sugar mixture evenly over both sides of each bacon slice, pressing gently so the coating adheres.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes, until the bacon is deeply browned and crispy, with the sugar beginning to caramelize at the edges. Watch carefully toward the end to prevent burning.
Remove from the oven and let the bacon rest on the baking sheet for 1–2 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to cool and crisp up further.
Serve warm or at room temperature. The candied coating will harden as it cools, creating a delightful sweet-savory crunch.
