Candied Bacon Bites are a tasty treat that combines sweet and salty flavors. Crispy bacon is coated in brown sugar and baked until it’s caramelized and crunchy!
These little bites are super fun to make and even more fun to eat. They disappear fast at parties—I can’t resist grabbing just one more! Who can say no to bacon? 🥓
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bacon: Thick-cut bacon is the star here. Its texture holds up well to baking and creates that crispy bite we love. If you want a healthier version, turkey bacon also works, though it may not get as crispy.
Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness that caramelizes beautifully. If you’re out, you can use light brown sugar, or even maple syrup. Just note that syrup may require a longer bake time since it has more liquid.
Spices: Black pepper adds a nice warmth, and cayenne or smoked paprika brings a kick. If you prefer milder flavors, leave out the heat or try a pinch of cinnamon for a different twist.
Garnish: Fresh parsley is optional but adds a nice pop of color and freshness. You could also use a sprinkle of flaky sea salt after baking for extra flavor.
How Do I Get Perfectly Crispy Candied Bacon?
Getting that perfect crunch in candied bacon is key, and it’s all about the cooking method. Here are some tips to ensure your bacon bites turn out just right:
- Preheat your oven thoroughly. This helps the sugar caramelize quickly and evenly.
- Use a baking rack if possible. Elevating the bacon allows fat to drain off and promotes crispiness on all sides.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. Give each piece space to cook and crisp without steaming.
- Check toward the end. Sugar can burn easily; keep an eye on the bacon in the last few minutes to catch it at the perfect moment.
- Let them cool. Bacon will crisp up more as it cools down, so resist the urge to nibble immediately!
Candied Bacon Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 slices of thick-cut bacon
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 tsp black pepper (optional)
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper or smoked paprika (optional for a spicy kick)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 20-25 minutes of baking, for a total of around 35-40 minutes. Perfect for when you’re craving a sweet and savory treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat The Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil to make cleaning up a breeze later on!
2. Prepare The Bacon:
Next, take your bacon slices and cut each one into bite-sized pieces, roughly 2 inches long. This makes them easy to eat and perfect for snacking!
3. Mix The Coating:
In a shallow bowl, combine the packed brown sugar with black pepper and cayenne pepper (if you’re using it). Stir it well so everything is evenly mixed—this will be the delicious coating for the bacon!
4. Coat The Bacon:
Now, dip each piece of bacon into the brown sugar mixture. Gently press down to make sure the sugar sticks well to both sides.
5. Arrange on Baking Sheet:
Place the coated bacon pieces on the lined baking sheet. Make sure to space them out so they don’t touch each other while baking—this helps them get crispy!
6. Bake To Perfection:
Put the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on your bacon as it cooks, especially in the last few minutes, because the sugar can burn quickly!
7. Cool Down:
Once the bacon is crispy and beautifully caramelized, take it out of the oven. Let it cool on a cooling rack or on the parchment paper; it will crisp up even more as it cools!
8. Serve & Enjoy:
Finally, if you like, garnish with fresh parsley to add a pop of color. Serve these warm or at room temperature—either way, they’ll be a hit!
Enjoy these sweet, salty, and crispy little treats that are perfect for any gathering or as a delightful snack!
Can I Use Regular Bacon Instead of Thick-Cut?
Yes, you can use regular bacon, but thick-cut bacon tends to hold up better during cooking, resulting in a crisper texture. If using regular bacon, keep an eye on it, as it may cook faster and can burn more easily.
How Do I Store Leftover Candied Bacon Bites?
Store any leftover candied bacon bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through and crispy again.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicy?
Absolutely! Adding cayenne pepper or smoked paprika gives a nice kick to the sweetness. Adjust the amount to your taste; even a dash of chili powder can elevate the flavor!
How Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the bacon bites and coat them in brown sugar a few hours in advance. Just cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. It’s a great time-saver for parties!
