Print

Savory Bacon Jam Recipe Easy Homemade Spread for Burgers and Boards

bacon jam recipe - featured image

A sweet and savory bacon spread made by slowly simmering bacon with onions, brown sugar, and balsamic vinegar. Perfect for burgers, charcuterie boards, and more.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz (340 g) thick-cut bacon, preferably Applewood smoked
  • 2 medium yellow onions, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup (50 g) brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tbsp strong brewed coffee (optional)
  • 2 tbsp maple syrup
  • 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) water

Instructions

  1. Chop the bacon into small pieces (about 1/2 inch). Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the bacon. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally until crispy but not burnt. Transfer bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the bacon fat in the pan.
  2. Add the finely chopped onions to the hot bacon fat. Cook over medium-low heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring often until onions are soft, deeply caramelized, and golden.
  3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
  4. Pour in balsamic vinegar and water to deglaze the pan, scraping up browned bits. Add brown sugar and maple syrup, stirring to combine. Simmer gently for 5 minutes.
  5. Add the cooked bacon back to the pan along with black pepper and red pepper flakes if using. Stir well and simmer for another 10 minutes until thickened and sticky. Add a splash of water if too thick.
  6. Optional: Transfer mixture to a food processor and pulse a few times for a smoother texture, or leave chunky if preferred.
  7. Let the jam cool to room temperature, then transfer to a sterilized jar or container. Store in the fridge for up to two weeks.

Notes

Save the bacon fat for cooking the onions as it adds rich flavor. Caramelize onions slowly over medium-low heat to avoid burning. Adjust sweetness and tang by balancing brown sugar and balsamic vinegar. Add brewed coffee for subtle earthiness if desired. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks or freeze in portions.

Nutrition

Keywords: bacon jam, bacon spread, homemade bacon jam, bacon condiment, savory bacon, bacon recipe, bacon for burgers, bacon for charcuterie