Millionaire’s Bacon

Prepare to elevate your culinary experience with the ultimate guide to crafting the most irresistible Candied Bacon. This sensational treat effortlessly merges the savory crispness of perfectly cooked bacon with a delightful sweet glaze, creating an explosion of flavors that tantalizes the taste buds. Whether you call it bacon candy, pig candy, or simply sweet and salty bacon, this easy recipe is designed to impress. It’s not just a snack; it’s a versatile indulgence perfect for enhancing everything from a gourmet burger to an elegant brunch spread, or even as a surprisingly delicious addition to desserts. Best of all, this coveted delicacy can be yours with just three simple ingredients and a mere 20 minutes of active cooking time, predominantly in your oven!

Unlock the Secret to Irresistible Candied Bacon: Your Ultimate Guide

There’s something truly magical about the combination of sweet and salty, and nowhere is it more exquisitely showcased than in candied bacon. This crispy, caramelized treat isn’t just a fleeting trend; it’s a timeless classic that brings joy to every bite. Imagine the rich, smoky flavor of bacon, perfectly balanced by a sugary glaze that caramelizes to a beautiful, golden crisp. It’s a culinary masterpiece that demands attention, whether served as a standalone snack or incorporated into more complex dishes. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to create the best brown sugar candied bacon, ensuring a flawless result every time.

Many people associate this decadent delight with “Pig Candy” found in Southern BBQ traditions, and while our version shares that irresistible sweet and savory profile, it offers a slightly milder sweetness and less heat, making it universally appealing. However, we’ll also share tips for those who crave a fiery kick!

Why Candied Bacon Will Become Your New Culinary Obsession

Once you try homemade candied bacon, you’ll understand why it’s a game-changer. Here’s why this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your repertoire:

• Effortless Elegance: Don’t let its sophisticated taste fool you; this candied bacon recipe is incredibly simple to prepare. With just three core ingredients and a straightforward oven method, you’ll achieve gourmet results without any complicated steps. There’s no need for constant flipping, reducing your active cooking time to a minimum.
• A Symphony of Flavors: This isn’t just bacon; it’s an experience. The umami-rich saltiness of the bacon, the deep, molasses notes of brown sugar, and a hint of sharp black pepper create a complex flavor profile that is truly addictive. It’s perfectly balanced, ensuring that neither the sweet nor the savory overwhelms the other, leading to a perfectly harmonious bite.
• The Ultimate Crowd-Pleaser: From casual breakfasts to elaborate holiday brunches and everything in between, candied bacon is guaranteed to be a hit. It adds an exciting, indulgent touch to any meal or gathering. Guests will marvel at this unique and delicious offering, often asking for the recipe before they’ve even finished their first slice. Prepare for rave reviews and requests for seconds!

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Candied Bacon

The beauty of this easy candied bacon recipe lies in its simplicity. You only need a handful of readily available ingredients to transform ordinary bacon into an extraordinary treat. Choosing quality ingredients is key to achieving the best flavor and texture.

• High-Quality Bacon: The star of the show! For optimal results, we recommend using a standard-width bacon. It crisps beautifully and absorbs the glaze perfectly. While thick-cut bacon can also be used, be aware that it will result in a chewier texture and may require a slightly longer cooking time to reach desired crispiness. Avoid ultra-thin bacon, as it can overcook and become brittle too quickly with the sugar. Regular smoked or uncured bacon works wonderfully, offering a robust flavor foundation for the sweet glaze.
• Rich Brown Sugar: This is the ingredient that “candies” your bacon, creating that signature sweet, glossy finish. As it melts under the high heat of the oven, it caramelizes, forming a delicious, slightly sticky coating. You can use either light brown sugar or dark brown sugar; both will yield fantastic results. Dark brown sugar has a higher molasses content, offering a deeper, richer flavor, while light brown sugar provides a more subtle sweetness. Choose according to your preference!
• Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Don’t skip the pepper! Just a touch of freshly ground black pepper is crucial for rounding out the sweetness and adding a subtle, peppery bite that perfectly contrasts the sugar. It introduces an earthy, savory note that elevates the overall flavor profile from merely sweet bacon to truly complex candied bacon. Fine ground pepper works best for even distribution.

Optional Flavor Boosters:

• Maple Syrup: For an extra layer of sweetness and a distinct maple flavor, you can add about 1 tablespoon of pure maple syrup to your brown sugar mixture. Be mindful that this will make the mixture slightly wetter and potentially more challenging to sprinkle evenly.
• Cayenne Pepper or Red Pepper Flakes: If you enjoy a touch of heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper or a ¼ teaspoon of red pepper flakes can transform your candied bacon into a “Millionaire’s Bacon” (also known as “Pig Candy”). Start with a small amount and adjust to your spice preference.
• Smoked Paprika: For an added layer of smoky depth, a dash of smoked paprika can complement the bacon beautifully.

Tools You’ll Need: The Right Equipment Makes All the Difference

Having the correct kitchen tools will ensure a smooth cooking process and the best possible outcome for your crispy bacon candy. Fortunately, you likely already have most of these on hand.

• Sturdy Rimmed Baking Sheet: A good quality, rimmed baking sheet is essential. The rims are crucial for containing any pooling bacon grease and caramelized sugar, preventing spills into your oven. A standard half-sheet pan (13×18 inches) is ideal for a batch of 8-12 slices of bacon.
• Reliable Wire Baking Rack: This is a non-negotiable item for truly crispy candied bacon. Placing the bacon on an oven-safe wire rack set inside the baking sheet allows hot air to circulate evenly around each slice. This promotes consistent crisping and prevents the bacon from sitting in its own rendered fat and sugar, which can lead to soggy results. We’ve extensively tested this recipe both with and without a wire rack, and the difference in texture is remarkable – a wire rack yields significantly superior crispiness.
• Non-Stick Parchment Paper: Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper is highly recommended for incredibly easy cleanup. The caramelized sugar can become quite sticky, and parchment paper acts as a barrier, ensuring that your baking sheet remains pristine. If you don’t have parchment paper, aluminum foil can be used as an alternative, but parchment generally provides better non-stick properties for sticky sugar.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Candied Bacon in the Oven

This oven method is the easiest and most effective way to achieve perfectly cooked, beautifully caramelized brown sugar bacon. It requires minimal effort and delivers consistently delicious results. Follow these simple steps to make your own batch of this delightful treat.

Part 1: Crafting the Sweet & Savory Glaze

Step 1: Prepare the Sugar Mixture. In a small bowl, combine ½ cup of light or dark brown sugar with ¼ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. If you’re opting for a spicy variation, now is the time to add ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes to this mixture.

Step 2: Mix Thoroughly. Stir the brown sugar and pepper mixture exceptionally well until the spices are evenly distributed throughout the sugar. This ensures every strip of bacon gets a balanced coating. Once mixed, set this delicious glaze aside while you prepare your bacon.

Part 2: Baking Your Bacon to Perfection

Step 3: Preheat and Arrange. Preheat your oven to 425ºF (218ºC). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper, then place an oven-safe wire baking rack on top of the parchment. Carefully lay the bacon strips onto the wire rack in a single layer, ensuring that none of the slices overlap. This allows for even cooking and optimal crisping.

Step 4: First Glaze Application. Take approximately two-thirds of your prepared brown sugar and pepper mixture and carefully sprinkle it evenly over the top of the bacon slices. Aim for a consistent coating across all pieces.

Step 5: Bake, Flip, and Re-glaze. Place the baking sheet with the bacon into the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes. At this point, the bacon will be partially cooked and the sugar will have started to melt and bubble. Carefully remove the tray from the oven. Using tongs or a fork, flip each bacon slice over. Then, gently sprinkle the remaining one-third of the brown sugar and pepper mixture evenly over the flipped side.

Step 6: Second Bake and Cool. Return the baking sheet to the oven and continue baking for an additional 5-7 minutes. Keep a close eye on it during this final stage, as bacon can go from perfectly crispy to burnt very quickly due to the sugar. The bacon should be golden brown, glossy, and crispy to your liking. Once done, remove from the oven and allow the candied bacon to rest on the wire cooling rack for about 4-5 minutes before serving. This brief cooling period helps the sugar glaze to set and the bacon to achieve maximum crispiness.

Achieving Extra Crispy Candied Bacon

For those who crave bacon with an extra snap, achieving ultra-crispy candied bacon is simple. After the initial 20-22 minutes of baking and the final flip, give your bacon one last turn in the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes. This re-crisps the original side, ensuring every edge is perfectly rendered and crunchy. However, a word of caution: this step is best for standard or thick-cut bacon. Very thinly sliced bacon can easily become overcooked and brittle if baked for too long, so adjust your timing accordingly and watch it closely.

Air Fryer Candied Bacon: A Quicker Alternative

While the oven method offers consistent, large-batch results, the air fryer presents a fantastic, quicker alternative for making candied bacon, especially for smaller servings. I’ve personally tested this recipe in an air fryer and found it yields wonderfully crispy results, although there are a couple of considerations. The primary caveat is that the bacon cannot be flipped as easily as in the oven, and the melting sugar can create a sticky mess if your air fryer basket isn’t adequately non-stick or lined. However, if you have a reliable non-stick air fryer, you’re in for a treat!

1. Preheat Your Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 350ºF (177ºC) for at least 3 minutes, or follow your manufacturer’s specific preheating instructions. This ensures a hot start for optimal crisping.
2. Arrange Bacon: Place up to 4 slices of bacon in an even layer in your air fryer basket. Ensure the slices do not overlap, as this is crucial for even cooking and crispiness. You may need to work in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
3. Prepare Sugar Mixture (Batch-Adjusted): In a small bowl, combine ¼ cup of brown sugar with ⅛ teaspoon of ground black pepper. This ratio is ideal for a half batch of bacon (4 slices).
4. Sprinkle the Glaze: Evenly sprinkle the brown sugar and pepper mixture directly on top of the bacon slices in the air fryer basket.
5. Air Fry to Perfection: Cook the bacon in the air fryer for 8-10 minutes. Begin checking for crispness around the 8-minute mark. Continue cooking until the bacon reaches your desired level of crispiness and the sugar is caramelized. Remember, air fryers can vary, so adjust cooking times as needed.
6. Cool and Drain: Carefully transfer the cooked candied bacon slices to a wire rack set over a plate or a few layers of paper towels to cool and allow any excess grease to drain. Important: Do not place the hot bacon directly on a single paper towel, as the sticky sugar will adhere to it.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Once slightly cooled and set, your air fryer candied bacon is ready to be devoured!

For more detailed insights and expert tips specific to this method, be sure to check out our dedicated recipe for Air Fryer Candied Bacon.

Storing and Reheating Your Candied Bacon

One of the many great things about candied bacon is that it stores well, making it an excellent make-ahead option for parties or busy mornings. Knowing how to properly store and reheat it ensures you can enjoy its deliciousness for days or even months.

• Refrigerator Storage: Allow your perfectly cooked bacon candy to cool completely to room temperature. This is crucial to prevent condensation, which can make the bacon soggy. Once cooled, transfer the candied pieces to an airtight container. Layer them between pieces of parchment paper to prevent sticking if you have multiple layers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. When ready to enjoy, you can eat it cold, or reheat it using one of the methods below for warm, crispier results.
• Freezer Storage: For longer storage, candied bacon freezes beautifully. After the bacon has cooled completely, arrange the slices in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until solid (about 1-2 hours). Once frozen, transfer the solid pieces to a freezer bag or an airtight freezer-safe container. Remove as much excess air as possible to prevent freezer burn, seal, and label with the date. Candied bacon can be frozen for 3-6 months. It can be reheated directly from frozen, though thawing slightly beforehand can speed up the process.
• Re-crisping for Freshness: While cold candied bacon is still delicious, reheating it can bring back that coveted crispiness and warm glaze. For the best results, re-crisping your prepared bacon is highly recommended. After reheating, I like to place the pieces back on a wire rack for a moment to allow any excess grease to drip away, which significantly aids in achieving that perfect crispiness.
  • Skillet: Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Place the candied bacon slices in the skillet and warm for 30-60 seconds per side, until hot and re-crisped. Be careful not to overheat and burn the sugar.
  • Air Fryer: Using your air fryer’s “reheat” option (typically around 300-325ºF or 150-160ºC), heat for 1-2 minutes. This is one of the best methods for quickly restoring crispiness.
  • Microwave: While convenient, the microwave is generally not ideal for re-crisping bacon as it can make it soft. However, for simply warming it through, heat in 30-second intervals until warmed to your preference. Don’t expect crispiness with this method.

Delicious Variations of Candied Bacon to Explore

While our classic brown sugar candied bacon recipe is undeniably delicious, there are numerous ways to customize and elevate it to suit different tastes and occasions. Don’t be afraid to experiment with these exciting variations!

• Million-Dollar Bacon (Spicy Pig Candy): For those who love a kick, this variation adds a delightful heat to the sweet glaze. To make it, add ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper, ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes, and an extra ½ teaspoon of black pepper to your ½ cup of brown sugar. The subtle spice balances the sweetness perfectly, creating an incredibly addictive flavor profile often found in upscale brunch menus.
• Thick-Cut Bacon: If you prefer a more substantial and chewier piece of bacon, opting for thick-cut slices works well. Just be sure to adjust your cooking time, typically adding about 2-3 minutes of additional baking per side. This ensures the thicker bacon cooks through and the sugar caramelizes properly without burning. The result is a more robust, satisfying bite with a wonderful chewiness.
• Maple-Glazed Candied Bacon: Infuse your candied bacon with the rich, earthy notes of maple. Simply add 1 tablespoon of pure maple syrup to your brown sugar mixture. This makes the sugar mixture slightly more moist and sticky, so spread it carefully and evenly over the bacon slices. The maple adds an extra layer of sweetness and a distinct aroma that pairs beautifully with the smoky bacon.
• Elegant Candied Bacon Roses: For a truly show-stopping presentation, transform your bacon into beautiful rosettes. Tightly roll each strip of bacon into a spiral shape, securing it with overlapping toothpicks. Place these bacon roses on a wire rack and sprinkle generously with the brown sugar and black pepper mixture. Bake them in a 400ºF (204ºC) oven for 35-40 minutes, or until they reach your desired level of crispiness and the edges are beautifully caramelized. These are perfect for special brunches or as a unique appetizer.
• Herb-Infused Candied Bacon: For a sophisticated twist, consider adding finely minced fresh rosemary or thyme to your brown sugar mixture. About half a teaspoon of dried herbs or one teaspoon of fresh, finely chopped herbs will add an aromatic depth that complements the savory notes of the bacon. This variation is particularly good for charcuterie boards or as a garnish for roasted meats.
• Smoky Paprika Candied Bacon: If you want to enhance the smoky flavor of your bacon, stir in ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika into the brown sugar mixture. This will add a beautiful reddish hue and a deeper, more intense smoky aroma, creating a complex and intriguing candied bacon.

Creative Ways to Enjoy Candied Bacon

The versatility of candied bacon extends far beyond just snacking. Its unique blend of sweet, salty, and smoky flavors makes it an incredible ingredient and topping that can elevate a wide array of dishes. Don’t limit yourself to just eating it straight off the rack!

• On Gourmet Burgers or Sandwiches: Elevate any burger or sandwich by adding a strip or two of crispy candied bacon. Its sweet and salty crunch provides a fantastic contrast to savory patties and fresh vegetables, making every bite unforgettable.
• Deviled Eggs: Finely chop candied bacon into bits and sprinkle it over deviled eggs. The crunch and sweet-savory kick will take your classic appetizer to a whole new level of deliciousness.
• Chopped into Candied Bacon Bits: Use these sweet and savory bits as a garnish for almost anything! Sprinkle them over soups, stews, or even creamy dips for added texture and flavor.
• Crunchy Salad Topping: Forget plain croutons! Crumbled candied bacon adds an unexpected burst of flavor and a delightful crunch to green salads, especially those with fruit or cheese.
• Flavorful Wraps: Add a layer of candied bacon to your favorite chicken, turkey, or veggie wraps for an instant upgrade in taste and texture.
• A Standalone Salty Snack: Of course, candied bacon is absolutely perfect on its own. It’s an addictive snack that’s hard to stop eating once you start!
• Garnishing Roasted Veggies: Crumble candied bacon over roasted Brussels sprouts, asparagus, or sweet potatoes for a touch of indulgence that will make even vegetable skeptics ask for more.
• A Savory Ice Cream Topping: Dare to be different! Chop candied bacon and sprinkle it over vanilla ice cream, especially when paired with a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce, for a surprisingly delicious sweet and savory dessert.
• Added to Cookies or Brownies: For a truly adventurous dessert, fold finely chopped candied bacon into chocolate chip cookies or brownie batter. The salty crunch and sweet notes are a revelation.
• Sprinkled on Cupcakes: Top chocolate or maple-flavored cupcakes with a light dusting of crumbled candied bacon for an unexpected gourmet touch that will leave your guests intrigued and delighted.
• To Garnish a Bloody Mary Cocktail: Forget celery sticks! A long, crispy strip of candied bacon makes an impressive and delicious garnish for a spicy Bloody Mary, adding both flavor and flair to your brunch cocktail. Find an amazing Bloody Mary recipe at FoodieCrush.

Recipe Summary: Classic Oven-Baked Candied Bacon

Here’s a concise overview of how to create this incredible sweet and salty treat at home.

How to Make Candied Bacon

This easy Candied Bacon recipe is the perfect combination of salty and sweet. Just 3 simple ingredients and ready in less than 20 minutes!

Course: Breakfast, Condiments, Snack
Cuisine: American

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Servings: 8 slices
Calories: 90 kcal
Author: Dorothy Bigelow

Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Wire rack

Ingredients

• 8 slices bacon
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 425ºF (218ºC). Line a sheet pan with parchment paper, and place an oven-safe baking rack on top of the parchment paper.

   

2. Place the bacon slices on the baking rack, keeping them evenly spaced with no overlapping.

3. Add the brown sugar and black pepper to a small bowl. Stir to combine.

   

4. Sprinkle ⅔ of the brown sugar and pepper mixture carefully on top of the bacon slices.

   

5. Place in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes.

6. Use a fork to flip the bacon slices over, then gently sprinkle on the remaining brown sugar and black pepper.

   

7. Return to the oven to cook for 5-7 minutes, or until crisp enough for your liking.

   

8. Remove from the oven and allow the bacon slices to cool on the baking rack for 4-5 minutes.

9. Serve and enjoy!

Notes

• For thick cut bacon, add 2-3 minutes per side. For thin bacon, reduce the time by 1-2 minutes per side.

• Extra crispy: Flip the bacon one last time after the initial cooking time is done, and then cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.

• Air fryer: Work in a half batch (4 slices) of bacon, and add the brown sugar mixture on top of the slices. Do not flip. Cook at 350ºF (177ºC) for 8-10 minutes.

• Without a wire rack: You can bake the bacon on a parchment lined baking sheet, but it does not crisp up like if you were to use a raised baking rack. It will be softer, pliable, and more “glazed.” I tested both methods several times and the wire baking rack was superior.

• Do I have to bake the bacon? Yes, baking is the best way to make candied bacon. In order for the brown sugar to stay on the bacon, it’s essential to use the baking method. This will not work using a skillet or microwave.

• Storage: Allow to cool, then transfer to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or in the freezer for 3-6 months.

Nutrition Information (per serving)

Please note that this nutrition information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredient brands and preparation methods.

• Calories: 90kcal
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Protein: 3g
• Fat: 3g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.5g
• Monounsaturated Fat: 1g
• Trans Fat: 0.01g
• Cholesterol: 8mg
• Sodium: 138mg
• Potassium: 59mg
• Fiber: 0.02g
• Sugar: 13g
• Vitamin A: 3IU
• Calcium: 13mg
• Iron: 0.2mg

Please note that some of my blog posts here at Dash for Dinner may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I will get a small commission at no additional cost to you. Please see my Disclaimer for more information.