Candied Bacon Bites are a sweet and salty treat that everyone loves! Crispy bacon is coated in brown sugar and baked until it’s deliciously caramelized. Yum!
These little bites are perfect for parties and gatherings. Trust me, they disappear fast—like magic! Just make a big batch, and you’ll be the star of the snack table. 🎉
I love serving them warm, right out of the oven. They have a way of making any moment feel a bit extra special. Who can resist that tasty combination? Bacon bliss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bacon: Thick-cut bacon is the star here, as it holds up well to baking and offers a nice chewy texture. If you want a healthier option, turkey bacon can work, but it won’t be as rich.
Brown Sugar: This gives the bacon its caramel-like sweetness. For a twist, try using maple sugar or coconut sugar. Both add unique flavors while keeping the sweetness!
Black Pepper: This adds a subtle kick, balancing the sweetness. If you’re sensitive to spice, feel free to skip it, or use a pinch of smoked paprika instead for a different flavor.
Cayenne Pepper: This is optional but gives a nice heat. If you’re not a fan of spicy, leave it out or substitute with a mix of sweet paprika and a pinch of chili powder for a milder touch.
How Do I Ensure My Bacon Becomes Perfectly Crispy?
Getting that crunchy texture is key for these bites! Here’s how to ensure your bacon turns out perfectly crispy:
- Preheat the oven properly—this helps kick off the cooking process right.
- Using a wire rack allows heat to circulate around the bacon, cooking it evenly. This keeps it from sitting in its own fat!
- Keep an eye on the bacon during the last few minutes of baking. Ovens can vary, and you want to catch it before it burns.
- Let the bacon cool on the rack. It will continue to crisp up as it cools, giving you that perfect bite!
These tips should help you achieve delicious and crispy candied bacon bites every time! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Candied Bacon Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound thick-cut bacon
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 35-40 minutes total. You’ll spend about 10-15 minutes preparing your ingredients and assembling the bites, followed by 20-25 minutes of baking time. Super simple and oh-so-delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s warming up, line a baking sheet with aluminum foil to catch the drips and make cleanup easier. Place a wire rack on top of the foil—this will help the bacon cook evenly and allow the fat to drip away.
2. Combine the Sweetness
In a shallow dish, mix the packed brown sugar with the ground black pepper and cayenne pepper, if you’re using it. This sweet and spicy mixture will turn your bacon into a lovely treat!
3. Prep the Bacon
Now, take your thick-cut bacon and cut each slice in half. This gives you the perfect bite-sized pieces. Trust me, your guests will love them!
4. Dredge in Sweetness
Take each bacon piece and dredge it in the brown sugar mixture. Press gently so the sugar sticks to both sides. You want that delicious coating all over!
5. Arrange the Bacon Bites
Next, place the coated bacon bites in a single layer on the wire rack. Make sure they don’t overlap, as this will help them cook evenly and get crispy.
6. Bake to Perfection
Put the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is nice and crispy with a caramelized look. Keep an eye on them towards the end to prevent burning.
7. Let Them Cool
Once baked, remove the sheet from the oven and let your bacon bites cool on the rack for about 10 minutes. They will continue to crisp up a bit as they cool. Yum!
8. Serve and Enjoy
Using tongs, carefully transfer your delicious candied bacon bites to a serving platter. You can enjoy them warm or at room temperature. They make for a fantastic appetizer or snack!
Enjoy your irresistible Candied Bacon Bites! They are bound to be a hit!
Can I Use Regular Bacon Instead of Thick-Cut?
Yes, you can use regular bacon, but thick-cut bacon tends to work better as it holds up well during cooking and provides a better texture. If using regular, watch the baking time closely, as it may cook faster!
How Can I Make These Bacon Bites Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the bacon bites and coat them with brown sugar a day in advance. Just store them in a covered container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before baking.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers (though they’re hard to resist!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes to regain their crispiness.
Can I Add Other Spices or Flavors?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with spices like paprika, garlic powder, or even a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for added flavor. Just make sure to balance the sweetness with any additions!
