Unleash an explosion of flavor with this incredible Million Dollar Bacon recipe! Often called Millionaire’s Bacon or “pig candy,” this irresistible creation transforms ordinary bacon into a gourmet delight with its signature sweet, spicy, and savory glaze. Perfect for elevating any meal or simply enjoying as a standalone snack, this candied bacon is a game-changer for breakfast, brunch, burgers, and sandwiches. Get ready to experience bacon like never before!
Featuring a delectable glaze that balances rich sweetness with a satisfying kick of heat, millionaire’s bacon is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It adds not only a unique flavor profile but also a delightful crispy-chewy texture to all your favorite dishes. Imagine the shimmering glaze reflecting the light, the enticing aroma filling your kitchen – this isn’t just bacon; it’s an experience.
Million Dollar Bacon has captivated diners at popular restaurants across North America for years, becoming a beloved menu item. Its ability to infuse a vibrant burst of sweet and spicy flavor into everything from gourmet burgers and savory wraps to crisp salads is truly remarkable. Beyond savory applications, it pairs exquisitely with classic breakfast and brunch staples such as fluffy eggs, crispy hash browns, and juicy sausages, adding a luxurious touch to any morning spread.
Gaining widespread fame through iconic establishments like First Watch and Twin Peaks, this spicy candied bacon has cultivated a passionate fan base. Its unique combination of flavors and textures sets it apart, making it a highly sought-after delicacy. Now, you can easily recreate this restaurant-quality treat in your own kitchen, bringing that millionaire dining experience home.
Crafting Million Dollar Bacon at Home
The allure of million dollar bacon is undeniable, but who wants to make a trip to a restaurant every time a craving for something perfectly salty, sweet, and spicy hits? My goal was to develop an accessible version that delivers the same sensational taste and texture, effortlessly made in your home kitchen. Say goodbye to the drive and hello to instant gratification!
This fantastic homemade Million Dollar Bacon recipe relies on just 5 simple, accessible ingredients and can be easily baked to perfection in your oven. The true beauty of preparing this delicacy yourself lies in the complete control you have over the flavor profile. Love a fiery kick? Amp up the spice! Prefer a milder sweetness? Adjust accordingly. This recipe is designed for customization, ensuring every batch is tailored precisely to your taste. No more compromises – just perfect bacon, every time.
Psst… for those who truly crave intense heat, don’t miss my recipe for Billionaire’s Bacon – it takes spicy candied bacon to the next level!
Essential Ingredients for Millionaire Bacon
Crafting the perfect sweet and spicy candied bacon begins with selecting high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to create this addictive treat:
- Bacon: The foundation of our recipe! Opt for a good quality bacon that you enjoy both for its taste and its texture. While thick-cut bacon can be used, our tests have shown that a regular cut typically yields the crispiest results and more even “candying.” Look for strips that are relatively even in thickness for consistent cooking.
- Brown sugar: This is the star of our sweet glaze, providing that rich, caramel-like sweetness. I prefer using light brown sugar for a balanced flavor, but if you desire a deeper molasses note and a more intense sweetness, dark brown sugar can be an excellent alternative. It’s the key to achieving that signature candied coating.
- Crushed red pepper flakes: These flakes are essential for introducing both vibrant color and a pleasant warmth to the bacon. Sometimes labeled as crushed chilies, this common pantry staple is easy to find and highly versatile. You can adjust the quantity based on your preferred level of heat – a little goes a long way, or a lot makes for a thrilling kick!
- Cayenne pepper: For those who love their bacon with a distinct kick! Cayenne pepper adds an extra layer of pure, clean heat that beautifully complements the sweetness of the brown sugar. If you’re sensitive to spice, feel free to reduce the amount or omit it entirely. For a bolder flavor, you can slightly increase it.
- Black pepper: Often underestimated, freshly ground black pepper contributes a subtle pungent warmth and aromatic complexity that enhances the savory notes of the bacon. While pre-ground pepper offers convenience, freshly ground pepper provides a superior aroma and flavor that truly elevates the overall profile of this Million Dollar Bacon.
Essential Equipment
Having the right tools makes all the difference when aiming for perfectly crispy and caramelized millionaire bacon. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Rimmed baking sheet: This is crucial for catching any rendered bacon fat and melted sugar, preventing drips and keeping your oven clean. A standard half-sheet pan works perfectly.
- Oven-safe wire rack: While optional, this is highly recommended for achieving truly crispy bacon. Placing the bacon on a rack allows air to circulate around each strip, ensuring even cooking and crisping on all sides, and also allows excess fat to drain away.
- Parchment paper (or aluminum foil): Essential for incredibly easy cleanup! Line your baking sheet with parchment paper (or foil if you don’t have parchment) before placing the wire rack on top. This prevents the sticky sugar glaze from adhering to your pan, making post-cooking cleanup a breeze.
Always consult the recipe card below for the precise measurements and quantities of each ingredient.
How to Make Perfect Million Dollar Bacon
Prepare to fall in love with this incredibly easy-to-make, restaurant-quality millionaire bacon, sometimes affectionately dubbed “pig candy.” With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll achieve the ultimate balance of spicy, sweet, and salty flavors that will leave everyone craving more. Let’s get cooking!
- Begin by combining your dry glaze ingredients: measure out the brown sugar, crushed red pepper flakes (or crushed chilies), black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if you’re using it for extra heat) into a small, clean mixing bowl.
- Using a spoon or small whisk, thoroughly mix the brown sugar and all the spices together. Ensure the mixture is well combined, so the flavors are evenly distributed for a consistent glaze on every piece of bacon.
- Prepare your baking setup: line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup, then place an oven-safe wire rack on top. This arrangement is key for crispy bacon.
- Carefully arrange the bacon slices on the wire rack in a single layer. It’s crucial that the pieces do not overlap, allowing each strip to cook evenly and crisp up beautifully. Leave a little space between each slice.
- Generously sprinkle approximately two-thirds (⅔) of your prepared brown sugar spice mixture evenly over the top of the bacon slices. Ensure good coverage for that delicious candied effect.
- Bake the bacon in a preheated oven at 425ºF (218ºC) for about 15 minutes. During this initial baking phase, the brown sugar and spice mixture will melt and begin to “candy” the bacon, forming a delicious, sticky glaze.
- After 15 minutes, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Using tongs, flip each slice of bacon over to the other side. Then, sprinkle the remaining one-third (⅓) of the brown sugar mixture evenly over the flipped bacon.
- Return the baking sheet to the oven and continue baking for an additional 5-7 minutes. Keep a close eye on the bacon during this final stage, as cooking times can vary. Bake until the bacon reaches your desired level of crispiness and the glaze is beautifully caramelized.
- Once cooked, remove the Million Dollar Bacon from the oven. Allow it to cool for about 5 minutes directly on the baking rack before serving. This crucial cooling time allows the glaze to set and the bacon to become perfectly crisp, creating that signature “candy” texture.
Making Candied Bacon Without a Wire Rack
While an oven-safe wire rack is highly recommended for achieving optimal crispiness, you can still make this delightful Million Dollar Bacon even if you don’t have one. Simply line your rimmed baking sheet directly with parchment paper or aluminum foil and spread the bacon slices in a single layer on top. Sprinkle all of the brown sugar mixture over the bacon before baking.
It’s important to note that without the elevation of a wire rack, the bacon will cook directly in its rendered fat and the melted brown sugar. This means it won’t achieve the same level of crispiness as bacon cooked on a rack; instead, it will be softer and more pliable, with a wonderfully “glazed” and chewy texture. Rest assured, while the texture differs, the sweet, spicy, and salty flavors remain incredibly delicious!
Storing & Reheating Leftover Million Dollar Bacon
If you manage to have any leftover Million Dollar Bacon (it’s hard, we know!), here’s how to properly store and reheat it to maintain its deliciousness:
- Cool Completely: Before storing, allow the Million Dollar Bacon to cool down completely on the wire rack. This helps the glaze set and prevents condensation inside the container.
- Airtight Storage: Once cooled, transfer the bacon to an airtight storage container. This protects it from air exposure and keeps it fresh.
- Refrigeration: Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. While it can be enjoyed cold, reheating is recommended for the best experience.
- Oven Reheating for Best Results: For optimal crispiness and flavor, re-crisp the bacon in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350ºF (177ºC) and bake the bacon for 5-10 minutes, or until it regains its desired crispiness and the glaze is once again glistening.
- Microwave Option: For a quicker reheat, you can use the microwave. Heat for 20-30 seconds, or until warmed through. Be aware that microwave reheating will result in a softer texture rather than crispy.
Expert Tips for the Best Million Dollar Bacon
Achieving perfectly candied, sweet and spicy bacon is simple with these expert tips:
- Skip the paper towels for draining. Unlike traditional bacon that benefits from draining on paper towels, millionaire bacon is coated in a sticky brown sugar glaze. This glaze can easily adhere to paper towels, making a messy situation. Instead, after baking, simply allow the bacon to cool for about 5 minutes directly on the wire baking rack. This allows any excess grease to drip away while the glaze sets, leaving you with perfectly candied, non-sticky strips.
- Adjust the spice to your taste. This recipe includes both crushed red pepper flakes and cayenne pepper to give it that signature kick. However, personal preference for heat varies greatly. If you prefer a milder flavor, feel free to significantly reduce or even completely omit the cayenne pepper and reduce the red pepper flakes. For those who enjoy a sweet treat with minimal spice, my dedicated candied bacon recipe focuses more on the sweet notes.
- Ensure no overlapping. For bacon that cooks uniformly and develops that desirable crisp texture, it is absolutely essential to arrange the slices in a single layer on the wire rack. Ideally, the bacon strips shouldn’t touch at all, as this allows for maximum air circulation around each piece. Overlapping will lead to uneven cooking, and some areas may remain chewy while others crisp up.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. If you’re making a larger batch, it’s better to cook the bacon in two separate batches rather than trying to squeeze too many slices onto one baking sheet. Overcrowding lowers the pan’s temperature and traps steam, preventing the bacon from getting crispy.
- Monitor baking closely. Oven temperatures can vary, and bacon thickness affects cooking time. Pay close attention during the last few minutes of baking. The bacon can go from perfectly crispy to burnt very quickly once the sugar fully caramelizes. Look for a deep golden-brown color and listen for a crisp sizzle.
- Let it cool slightly before handling. The glaze will be very hot and sticky directly out of the oven. Allowing it to cool on the rack for 5 minutes not only helps it crisp up but also makes it much easier and safer to handle without making a mess.
Delicious Million Dollar Bacon Variations
While the classic Million Dollar Bacon recipe is phenomenal on its own, there are several exciting variations you can try to customize it even further:
- Billionaire Bacon – Made famous by Snoop Dogg in his popular cookbook, this variation offers an even bolder spice profile. It typically omits cayenne pepper but increases the amount of crushed red pepper flakes and black pepper, delivering a more pronounced heat without sacrificing flavor. You can always adjust the level of spice to match your personal preference.
- Millionaire Bacon Twists – For a fun, decorative, and extra-chewy treat, try making bacon twists. Coat one side of each bacon slice with about ¾ of the brown sugar mixture. Then, gently twist each strip from end to end. Sprinkle the remaining rub over the twists and bake at a slightly lower temperature of 400ºF (204ºC) for approximately 20 minutes. Flip them over and bake for another 15 minutes, or until they reach your desired crispiness and are beautifully caramelized.
- Thick-Cut Bacon – If you prefer a meatier, more substantial bite, thick-cut bacon works wonderfully with this recipe. Just be aware that it will require a slightly longer cooking time. Add an additional 2-3 minutes per side during the baking process to ensure it cooks through and crisps up perfectly. Keep a close watch to prevent burning, especially in the final minutes.
- Maple Infusion: For an extra layer of sweetness and depth, drizzle a tablespoon of pure maple syrup over the bacon slices after sprinkling the spice rub, before baking. This adds a beautiful sheen and a rich, complex flavor.
- Smoked Paprika Twist: Incorporate a teaspoon of smoked paprika into your brown sugar spice mix. This will add a wonderful smoky depth that complements the bacon’s natural flavors and the sweet-spicy glaze.
- Garlic & Onion Powder: For an umami-rich twist, add a quarter teaspoon each of garlic powder and onion powder to your spice blend. This will enhance the savory aspects of the bacon, creating a more complex flavor profile.
Creative Ways to Enjoy Million Dollar Bacon
The versatility of Million Dollar Bacon goes far beyond just a standalone snack. Its unique sweet, spicy, and savory profile makes it an incredible addition to a wide array of dishes:
- Elevate Your Burgers: Place a few strips on your favorite burger for an explosion of flavor and texture that transforms a simple meal into a gourmet experience.
- Gourmet Sandwiches: Upgrade any sandwich, from a classic BLT to a sophisticated turkey club, with the irresistible crunch and taste of candied bacon.
- Spectacular Salads: Crumble cooled Million Dollar Bacon over green salads, spinach salads, or even fruit salads for a surprising sweet and salty counterpoint.
- Flavorful Wraps: Add it to chicken, turkey, or veggie wraps to introduce a delightful crunch and a burst of sweet-spicy goodness.
- Brunch Bliss: Serve alongside fluffy waffles or pancakes for a truly indulgent breakfast or brunch. The maple-syrup pairing is divine.
- Egg-cellent Accompaniment: Pair with eggs of any kind – fried, poached, scrambled, or in omelettes – for an added layer of rich flavor and texture.
- Bloody Mary Garnish: Skewer a strip or two to garnish a Bloody Mary cocktail, adding a sophisticated and edible flourish.
- Brunch Buffet Star: Feature it prominently on any brunch buffet or breakfast spread; it’s always the first to disappear!
- Game Day Snack: Serve it on its own as an addictive snack for parties, gatherings, or game nights.
- Classic Breakfast Plate: Enjoy it simply with eggs and toast for a truly satisfying morning meal.
- Homemade Bacon Bits: Once cooled, finely crumble the bacon to create gourmet bacon bits, perfect for topping soups, salads, or baked potatoes.
- Deviled Egg Upgrade: Garnish your deviled eggs with a sprinkle of crumbled millionaire bacon for an unexpected and delightful crunch.
- Savory Soup & Potato Topping: Add a sweet and spicy kick to creamy soups like loaded baked potato soup or as a topping for twice-baked potatoes.
- Cheese Boards: Include strips on a charcuterie or cheese board for a contrasting texture and flavor that pairs beautifully with soft cheeses and fruits.
Recipe Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
While maple syrup is a delicious sweetener, it performs differently than brown sugar in this recipe. In our testing, brown sugar was the clear winner for achieving the desired crispy, candied texture. Maple syrup has a much higher liquid content, which means it takes significantly longer to “cook down” and caramelize. This extended cooking time often leads to overcooked or overly chewy bacon before the glaze properly sets. A very small amount of maple syrup (1-2 tablespoons) can be brushed on top of the brown sugar mixture for added flavor, but using it as a primary substitute for the sugar makes it challenging to get the mixture to stick and achieve crispiness.
Absolutely! While I haven’t specifically tested this recipe with pork belly, I believe the sweet and spicy rub would pair incredibly well with its rich, fatty nature. You would likely need to make some adjustments to the cooking times, as pork belly is much thicker and requires more time to render and cook through. I would recommend cutting the pork belly into smaller, thinner pieces (similar to thick-cut bacon strips or cubes) to help it cook and render more quickly and evenly. Experimentation with cooking duration and temperature will be key to perfecting it.
Yes, if your cooling rack is certified as oven-safe, it can certainly be used in place of a baking rack to prepare your bacon in the oven. The crucial factor is that it must be explicitly labeled or designed to withstand oven temperatures. Using a non-oven-safe cooling rack could lead to melting, warping, or even hazardous fumes. Always double-check the manufacturer’s specifications to ensure it’s safe for oven use. An oven-safe rack of any type will provide the necessary elevation for air circulation, which is vital for crispy bacon.
There are a few common reasons for chewy bacon. Firstly, ensure you’re using a wire rack to allow air circulation and fat drainage. Baking directly on a sheet pan can result in chewier bacon. Secondly, avoid overlapping the bacon slices; each piece needs space to crisp up. Lastly, your oven temperature might be too low, or it may not have baked long enough. Bacon needs high heat to get crispy, and the sugar needs enough time to caramelize fully. If using thick-cut bacon, it will naturally be a bit chewier and require longer baking.
Absolutely! The brown sugar and spice mixture can be prepared several days ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature. This makes meal prep even quicker when you’re ready to bake your Million Dollar Bacon. Just give it a quick stir before sprinkling it over the bacon slices.
Explore More Delicious Bacon Recipes
If you’ve fallen in love with the savory, sweet, and crispy magic of bacon, you’ll want to explore these other fantastic recipes to satisfy your cravings:
- Air Fryer Bacon
- Crispy Oven Baked Bacon
- Loaded Baked Potato Soup
- Candied Bacon
If you absolutely loved this Million Dollar Bacon recipe, please let me know by leaving a 5-star review in the recipe card or a comment below! Your feedback is greatly appreciated. You can also tag me on Instagram @dashfordinner.
Million Dollar Bacon (Millionaire Bacon)
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Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Wire baking rack
Ingredients
- 8 slices bacon
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to a scorching 425ºF (218ºC). Line a sturdy sheet pan with parchment paper, then carefully place an oven-safe baking rack on top of the parchment paper. This setup is crucial for perfectly crispy bacon.
- Arrange the bacon slices evenly on the baking rack. Ensure there is absolutely no overlapping; each slice needs its own space to crisp up properly and achieve that glorious candied coating.
- In a small bowl, combine the rich brown sugar, aromatic black pepper, fiery cayenne pepper, and zesty crushed red pepper flakes. Mix these ingredients thoroughly until they are well combined, creating your irresistible sweet and spicy rub.
- With careful precision, sprinkle two-thirds (⅔) of the brown sugar mixture generously and evenly over the top of all the bacon slices. Ensure each strip is well-coated for maximum flavor and caramelization.
- Carefully place the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for an initial 15 minutes. During this time, the sugar will begin to melt and create that desired candied glaze.
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Using a fork or tongs, carefully flip each bacon slice over. Now, gently sprinkle the remaining one-third (⅓) of the brown sugar mixture onto the newly exposed side of the bacon.
- Return the baking sheet to the oven. Continue to cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the bacon reaches your preferred level of crispiness and the glaze is beautifully caramelized and bubbling. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
- Once cooked to perfection, remove the Million Dollar Bacon from the oven. Allow the bacon slices to cool on the baking rack for 4-5 minutes. This crucial step allows the glaze to set and the bacon to become perfectly crisp.
- Serve your magnificent Million Dollar Bacon immediately and prepare for rave reviews! Enjoy every sweet, spicy, and savory bite.
Notes
Storage: Allow the Million Dollar Bacon to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For the best texture, re-crisp in the oven (350ºF/177ºC) for 5-10 minutes. Alternatively, reheat quickly in the microwave for 20-30 seconds, though it will be softer.
Air fryer method: If using an air fryer, work in half batches (about 4 slices at a time). Sprinkle all of the brown sugar mixture on top of the bacon slices before cooking; there’s no need to flip. Cook at 350ºF (177ºC) for 8-10 minutes, monitoring closely for desired crispiness.
Without a wire rack: You can bake the bacon directly on a parchment-lined baking sheet, but be aware that it will not crisp up in the same way as bacon cooked on a raised wire rack. The result will be a softer, more pliable, and heavily glazed texture. Through multiple tests, the wire baking rack consistently produced a superior, crispier result.
Nutrition
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