These Candied Bacon Bites are a sweet and salty treat that everyone loves! With crispy bacon coated in a sugary glaze, they’re simply irresistible. Perfect for snacking or parties!
Honestly, who can resist bacon that’s sweet and crunchy? I always find myself going back for seconds (or thirds!). They’re super easy to make—just bake, cool, and munch away!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bacon: Thick-cut bacon works best for candied bacon bites. Its richness holds up against the sweetness. If you want a healthier option, turkey bacon can be a substitute, but it may not get as crispy.
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar gives that lovely caramelized texture. If you need a substitute, coconut sugar or maple sugar can also add a nice flavor. Just keep in mind that they might change the color.
Cayenne Pepper: The cayenne adds a spicy kick to balance the sweetness of the sugar. If you’re not into spicy, you can skip it or use a pinch of black pepper instead for a milder flavor.
Coarse Sea Salt: Sprinkling a bit of salt at the end enhances the overall taste. If you don’t have coarse sea salt, kosher salt works just as well.
How Do You Get Bacon Extra Crispy?
To achieve perfectly crispy bacon bites, it’s all about preparation and timing. Here are some tips:
- Start with a preheated oven. This helps the bacon render its fat right away.
- Line your baking sheet. Using parchment paper creates a non-stick surface and makes cleanup easy.
- Keep an eye on the bacon. Every oven is different, so check it a few minutes before the time is up to prevent burning.
- Let the bacon cool before cutting. It will firm up as it sits, making it easier to handle.
By following these tips, you’ll enjoy deliciously crispy and caramelized bacon bites every time!
Candied Bacon Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound thick-cut bacon
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for a spicy kick)
- Coarse sea salt, for sprinkling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 20-25 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’ll be spending around 35-40 minutes to whip up these delicious Candied Bacon Bites!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your bacon cooks evenly and crisps up nicely. Don’t forget to line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat for easy cleanup later!
2. Prepare the Bacon:
Now, let’s lay out the bacon slices flat and evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they don’t overlap, so each slice gets that yummy candied crust.
3. Mix the Sugar and Spice:
In a small bowl, mix together the packed brown sugar and cayenne pepper (if you’re feeling like a little heat). This mixture will give your bacon that sweet and spicy flavor.
4. Coat the Bacon:
Sprinkle the brown sugar mixture evenly over the bacon strips. Don’t be shy! Press down lightly with your fingers to help it stick to the bacon.
5. Bake to Perfection:
Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the bacon is nice and crispy, and caramelized. Keep an eye on it—every oven is different, and you want to avoid burning!
6. Cool Down:
Once done, take the bacon out of the oven and let it cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. This helps it firm up, making it easier to cut later.
7. Cut into Bites:
Using kitchen scissors or a sharp knife, slice the bacon into bite-sized squares. These little pieces are perfect for snacking!
8. Add the Finishing Touches:
Arrange the bacon bites on a serving board and sprinkle a little coarse sea salt over the top. This step enhances the flavor and adds a delightful crunch.
9. Serve and Enjoy!
Your Candied Bacon Bites are ready to be served! Enjoy them warm or at room temperature as a sweet and savory appetizer or snack. Watch them disappear in no time!
These tasty bites are perfect for parties, brunch, or when you just crave that delightful sweet-savory combo!
Can I Use Regular Bacon Instead of Thick-Cut?
Absolutely! You can use regular bacon, but keep in mind that it may cook faster. You’ll want to keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
What If I Don’t Have Brown Sugar?
If you’re out of brown sugar, you can substitute it with white sugar mixed with a bit of molasses (1 tablespoon of molasses for each cup of white sugar) or use coconut sugar for a different flavor profile.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the bacon up to a day in advance. Just bake it, let it cool completely, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat it in the oven at 350°F (about 10 minutes) to restore its crispiness.
How Should Leftover Candied Bacon Be Stored?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To re-crisp, reheat them in the oven for a few minutes before serving.