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Candied Bacon

Crispy thick-cut bacon coated with caramelized brown sugar, black pepper, and a hint of cayenne for the perfect sweet-salty crunch in just 20 minutes.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 18 minutes
Total Time 23 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Breakfast, Brunch, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 240
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 1 pound thick-cut bacon strips about 8 strips
  • 1/3 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper or to taste

Equipment

  • Sheet pan or rimmed baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Spoon
  • Paper towels
  • Instant-read thermometer (optional)

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and position a rack in the upper third of the oven.
  2. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper for easy cleanup and even browning.
  3. In a small mixing bowl, combine brown sugar, black pepper, and cayenne pepper until evenly mixed.
  4. Pat each bacon strip dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
  5. Arrange bacon in a single layer on the prepared sheet pan, leaving about 1/2 inch between strips.
  6. Sprinkle the sugar-spice mixture evenly over the bacon, pressing gently so it adheres.
  7. Bake for 15 minutes, then check doneness: the bacon should be mostly crisp and the sugar bubbling and caramelized.
  8. If needed, continue baking 2–3 more minutes until the edges are deep golden brown and the glaze is set.
  9. Remove the pan from the oven and let bacon cool on the parchment for at least 5 minutes; the coating will harden as it cools.

Notes

For extra heat, double the cayenne or replace it with smoked paprika. Allow bacon to cool completely before storing to keep the candy coating crisp.