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Savory Candied Bacon Recipe with Brown Sugar and Cayenne

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A quick and easy recipe for thick-cut bacon coated with a sweet and spicy glaze of brown sugar and cayenne pepper, perfect for snacks, brunch, or adding a twist to your favorite dishes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 thick-cut bacon slices
  • 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar (light or dark)
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1–2 tablespoons maple syrup (optional, can replace some brown sugar)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup, then place a wire rack on top.
  2. In a small mixing bowl, combine brown sugar, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and smoked paprika if using. Stir well to blend.
  3. Lay out the 12 thick-cut bacon slices evenly on the wire rack, making sure they don’t overlap.
  4. Sprinkle the brown sugar mixture evenly over each slice, pressing lightly so the sugar sticks but keeping a thin, even coating.
  5. Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes. Check after 15 minutes and watch closely to avoid burning. The bacon should be crispy with a shiny glaze.
  6. Remove from the oven and let the bacon cool on the rack for 5 minutes to set the glaze and keep it crunchy.
  7. Use tongs to transfer the bacon to a plate and serve warm.

Notes

Use thick-cut bacon for best texture. Watch the oven closely during the last 10 minutes to prevent sugar from burning. If sugar caramelizes too fast or smokes, lower oven temperature by 10°F. For keto-friendly version, substitute brown sugar with erythritol or allulose. Reheat in oven or toaster oven to maintain crispiness; avoid microwaving.

Nutrition

Keywords: candied bacon, savory bacon, brown sugar bacon, cayenne bacon, sweet and spicy bacon, easy bacon recipe, thick-cut bacon

Find it online: https://tastypierecipes.com/savory-candied-bacon-recipe-with-brown-sugar-and-cayenne-easy-and-perfect/