Billionaire Bacon Recipe: Indulge in Sweet, Spicy, & Perfectly Candied Bacon

Prepare to elevate your taste buds with this sensational Billionaire Bacon recipe! A delightful fusion of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors, this candied bacon is incredibly easy to make right in your oven. Its irresistible crunch and complex taste make it a perfect addition to a wide range of dishes, from gourmet burgers and hearty sandwiches to vibrant salads and decadent brunch spreads. Or, simply enjoy it as an unforgettable snack on its own!

This recipe promises a unique culinary experience that will impress family and friends alike. Forget ordinary bacon; this is bacon reimagined for true gourmands.

The Inspiration Behind This Irresistible Candied Bacon

My culinary journey began at a young age, heavily influenced by icons like Martha Stewart. Her early cookbooks were my gateway to the kitchen, long before the internet became a ubiquitous source of recipes. Fast forward to recent years, and a fascinating partnership emerged between Martha and another 90s legend: Snoop Dogg. When Snoop released his highly anticipated cookbook, I knew I had to add it to my ever-growing collection, eager to see what culinary magic he had conjured.

Among the many intriguing recipes, one immediately captured my attention: Billionaire’s Bacon. Clearly drawing inspiration from the popular Million Dollar Bacon recipe, Snoop’s version promised an exciting blend of spicy, sweet, and utterly delicious flavors. After several rounds of testing and tweaking to perfect the balance for my family’s palate and to discover the optimal cooking method, I simply had to share this gem with you!

I am confident you’ll fall in love with this bacon just as much as we have. While it makes an incredible addition to burgers and sandwiches, I must confess, my absolute favorite way to enjoy it is straight off the cooling rack. It’s a true standalone treat!

What Exactly is Billionaire Bacon?

Billionaire Bacon takes the beloved concept of candied bacon to a whole new level. It’s essentially thick, crispy bacon that’s generously coated in a mixture of brown sugar and a kick of spice, then baked until caramelized and perfectly crisp. The “billionaire” aspect often refers to its luxurious, rich flavor profile and its elevated status compared to standard bacon. This specific recipe amplifies the experience with a balanced heat that complements the sweetness beautifully, creating an addictive taste sensation that’s truly extraordinary.

Key Ingredients for Your Billionaire Bacon

Crafting the perfect Billionaire Bacon requires just a few simple, high-quality ingredients. Each plays a crucial role in achieving that coveted sweet, spicy, and crispy texture.

• Bacon: The foundation of our dish! For the best results, opt for good quality, standard-sliced bacon. Look for slices that are relatively even in thickness to ensure uniform cooking. While thick-cut bacon can be used (with slight adjustments to cooking time), I’ve found that standard-sliced bacon provides the ideal texture – a perfect balance of crispy fat and tender meat, allowing the candied glaze to adhere beautifully without becoming overly chewy or brittle. Avoid overly thin bacon, as it can burn easily.
• Brown Sugar: This is where the “candy” in candied bacon comes from! Brown sugar not only provides a rich sweetness but also helps create that beautiful, sticky, caramelized glaze. You can use either light or dark brown sugar based on your preference. I typically use light brown sugar as its milder molasses flavor allows the other ingredients to shine through. Dark brown sugar will lend a deeper, more robust caramel note.
• Crushed Red Pepper: Here’s where the “spicy” element kicks in! Also commonly known as crushed chili flakes, these add a fantastic warmth and a subtle kick that perfectly balances the sweetness of the brown sugar. The beauty of this ingredient is its adjustability: feel free to use more for an extra fiery bite, or less if you prefer a milder warmth. Don’t be shy, as the heat helps cut through the richness of the bacon.
• Black Pepper: A simple yet essential spice that adds depth of flavor and a subtle earthy heat. Freshly cracked black pepper is always recommended for the most potent aroma and flavor. If you’re sensitive to spice, you can reduce the amount or substitute with white pepper for a less pronounced heat. It enhances the overall savory profile, making the bacon truly complex.

How to Craft Your Own Billionaire Bacon (Pig Candy)

Also known affectionately as “pig candy,” this spicier, sweeter version of candied bacon is remarkably simple to prepare in your oven. With just four basic ingredients and a baking sheet, you’re on your way to an extraordinary treat! Follow these steps for perfectly crisp and flavorful results.

1. Begin by preheating your oven to a precise 425ºF (218ºC). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. If you’re using a wire cooking rack (which is highly recommended for optimal crispness), place it inside the lined baking sheet.
2. In a small bowl, combine ½ cup of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of cracked black pepper, and ½ to 1 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes (or chile flakes). Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your desired level of spice.

3. Stir all the ingredients together thoroughly until the sugar and spices are uniformly combined. This ensures every bite of bacon gets an even coating of sweet and spicy goodness.

4. Carefully arrange the bacon slices on top of the wire cooking rack (or directly on the lined baking sheet if not using a rack), making sure to leave a small amount of space between each slice. This prevents them from steaming and helps them crisp evenly. Do not overcrowd the pan; bake in batches if necessary.
5. Sprinkle approximately two-thirds (⅔) of the brown sugar mixture evenly over one side of the bacon slices. Ensure a generous coating on each piece.

6. Place the baking sheet into the preheated 425ºF (218ºC) oven and bake for an initial 15 minutes. During this time, the bacon will begin to cook, and the sugar will start to melt and caramelize.

7. After the initial 15 minutes, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Using tongs or a fork, gently flip each bacon slice over to cook the other side.
8. Distribute the remaining one-third (⅓) of the brown sugar mixture evenly over the flipped bacon slices. This ensures both sides are beautifully coated and caramelized.

9. Return the bacon to the oven and continue baking for an additional 5-7 minutes. Keep a close eye on it 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. It should be deep golden brown and bubbly.
10. Once cooked, remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the Billionaire Bacon to cool on the wire rack for at least 5 minutes before serving. The bacon will continue to crisp up as it cools, developing that irresistible crunchy texture.

Tips for the Best Billionaire Bacon Experience

• Embrace the Wire Rack: For truly exceptional results, using an oven-safe wire cooling rack set inside a rimmed baking sheet is non-negotiable. This setup allows the hot air to circulate freely around each strip of bacon and enables the rendered fat to drip down into the pan below. The outcome is uniformly crispy, perfectly candied bacon with an unparalleled texture that’s never soggy or greasy. While you *can* skip it, the bacon will be softer and more pliable, lacking that signature snap.
• No Need for Paper Towels: Unlike traditional bacon cooking, do not drain this candied bacon on paper towels after it comes out of the oven. The melted brown sugar glaze will stick to the paper towels as it cools, creating a sticky mess and potentially leaving undesirable paper towel bits on your delicious bacon. Simply let it cool on the wire rack over the lined baking sheet.
• Consider Maple Syrup: During my recipe development, I experimented with incorporating maple syrup into my general candied bacon recipe. While delicious, I found it often led to an overly sticky and intensely sweet result that was sometimes difficult to manage. For this Billionaire Bacon, sticking to the dry brown sugar mixture proves much easier to apply and results in a more balanced flavor profile and superior crispiness.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Ensure each strip of bacon has enough space around it on the wire rack. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and steaming, which will prevent the bacon from getting truly crispy. Bake in batches if necessary.
• Watch Closely Towards the End: Bacon can go from perfectly crisp to burnt in a matter of moments, especially with the sugar coating. Keep a watchful eye during the last 5-7 minutes of baking to prevent over-caramelization or burning.
• Cool Completely for Maximum Crispness: While it’s tempting to devour it immediately, allowing the bacon to cool completely on the rack is crucial. As it cools, the caramelized sugar hardens, giving the bacon its signature crisp, brittle texture.

Storing Leftovers for Future Enjoyment

Billionaire Bacon is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers are still fantastic! Proper storage and reheating will help maintain its deliciousness.

• Cool Completely: Before storing, it is essential to allow the Billionaire Bacon to cool down completely to room temperature. Storing warm bacon can lead to condensation, making it soggy.
• Airtight Container: Once cooled, transfer the bacon to an airtight storage container. This helps prevent it from drying out or absorbing odors from the refrigerator.
• Refrigerate: Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Re-crisping in the Oven (Recommended): For the best results and to restore its original crispness, re-crisp the bacon in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350ºF (177ºC) and bake the bacon on a wire rack for 5-10 minutes, or until it reaches your desired texture.
• Microwave Reheating (Quick Option): While not ideal for crispness, you can reheat the bacon in the microwave for 20-30 seconds if you’re in a hurry. Be aware it will be softer and less crispy than oven-reheated bacon.

Creative Ways to Enjoy Billionaire Bacon

This sweet and spicy candied bacon is incredibly versatile and can elevate almost any dish. Beyond simply snacking on it, here are numerous delicious ways to incorporate Billionaire Bacon into your meals:

• Burgers & Sandwiches: Take your classic burger, BLT, or grilled cheese to gourmet heights with a slice or two of this flavorful bacon.
• Wraps & Paninis: Add a crispy, savory-sweet crunch to your favorite wraps and pressed sandwiches.
• Breakfast & Brunch Staple: Serve alongside eggs (poached, fried, scrambled – you name it!) and toast for an upgraded morning meal.
• Salad Topping: Crumble it over fresh greens, spinach salads, or even a warm potato salad for a burst of flavor and texture.
• Garnish for Bloody Marys: Impress your guests with a candied bacon strip as an edible stirrer and garnish for brunch cocktails.
• Pancakes & Waffles: Pair the salty-sweetness with fluffy pancakes or waffles and a drizzle of maple syrup for an unforgettable breakfast.
• Deviled Eggs: Finely crumble Billionaire Bacon and sprinkle it over homemade deviled eggs for a sophisticated appetizer.
• Brunch Buffet Showstopper: Lay out platters of this bacon for any holiday or weekend brunch gathering; it’s always a crowd-pleaser.
• Game Day Snack: Serve it as an irresistible snack during sporting events or casual get-togethers.
• Potatoes Reimagined: Chop and mix into creamy mashed potatoes, sprinkle over twice-baked potatoes, or stir into a rich baked potato soup.
• Dessert Enhancement: Believe it or not, finely crumbled candied bacon can be an incredible topping for ice cream, brownies, or even chocolate-covered treats! The sweet and salty combination is divine.

Billionaire Bacon Variations to Try

Once you master the basic recipe, feel free to experiment with these delicious twists and variations:

• Billionaire Bacon Twists: For a fun presentation and an even chewier texture, try making bacon twists. Coat one side of the bacon with most of the brown sugar mixture, then carefully twist each strip with both hands. Sprinkle the remaining sugar mixture over the twists. Bake at 400ºF (200ºC) for about 20 minutes, then flip and cook for another 15 minutes, or until they are crisp and caramelized.
• Million Dollar Bacon: If you’re curious about the recipe that inspired this one, Million Dollar Bacon typically features a slightly different spice profile. To replicate it, use the same amount of brown sugar but adjust your spices to ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, ½ teaspoon black pepper, and ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper for an added layer of piquant heat. This creates a similar, yet distinct, flavor experience.
• Thick-Cut Bacon: If you prefer a meatier bite, thick-cut bacon works wonderfully, but it requires a longer cooking time. Add an additional 2-3 minutes per side to the baking instructions to ensure it reaches optimal crispiness and the glaze is fully set. Always monitor closely to prevent burning.
• Smoky Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke to your brown sugar mixture for an extra layer of savory depth.
• Herbaceous Twist: For an unexpected gourmet touch, finely chop fresh rosemary or thyme and mix it into the brown sugar mixture. The herbs will beautifully complement the savory bacon and sweet glaze.