Million Dollar Bacon has quickly become my signature addition to brunch spreads impressing friends and family with its balance of sweet heat and irresistible crisp. This candied bacon transforms simple ingredients into a major crowd pleaser that never fails to disappear in minutes.
I first made this Million Dollar Bacon for a holiday brunch and watched it vanish so fast I barely got a bite It is now the most requested item for every family gathering
Ingredients
- Thick cut bacon: brings a sturdy bite and holds up to the caramelized glaze look for pieces with a nice balance of meat and fat for the best flavor
- Brown sugar: adds caramel depth and a glossy finish choose dark brown sugar for extra richness
- Maple syrup: delivers true breakfast sweetness with subtle woody notes select pure maple syrup for the best taste
- Cayenne pepper: gives a slow building heat that brightens every bite use freshly ground if possible for stronger flavor
- Cracked black pepper: layers in a sharp herbal note and punchy kick opt for coarse grind for texture
- Red pepper flakes: introduce lively warmth and a pop of color fresh jars have the brightest aroma
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Mix the Glaze:
- Combine brown sugar maple syrup cayenne pepper cracked black pepper and red pepper flakes in a mixing bowl Stir together until you achieve a moist sandy mixture with even spice distribution This ensures every bite has a balanced kick and sweetness
- Prepare the Bacon:
- Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the bacon in a single flat layer This prevents sticking and allows the bacon to crisp evenly
- Add the Glaze:
- Using your hand generously sprinkle the sugar spice mix over each bacon slice Pat the topping down so it clings to the surface Do not stress about flipping it over because the melting glaze will coat the underside as it bakes
- Bake to Perfection:
- Place the tray in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Bake for 20 to 30 minutes watching closely during the last ten minutes for caramelization The bacon should be deep golden and just shy of your ultimate crisp preference The sugar may bubble but avoid letting it darken too much or burn
- Cool and Serve:
- Carefully lift the hot bacon onto a wire rack using tongs The cooling rack encourages extra crispiness and lets the glaze set Wait several minutes before serving as the sugar coating will be extremely hot and sticky
Million Dollar Bacon Maple Twist
Thick bacon coated in maple syrup, brown sugar, and spices, baked for a caramelized, savory-sweet treat.
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 30 min
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 1x
- Category: Breakfast & Brunch
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb thick cut bacon
- 6 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon cracked black pepper
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine brown sugar, maple syrup, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix well until evenly incorporated with a slightly lumpy texture.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lay the thick cut bacon strips in a single layer on the prepared sheet.
- Sprinkle the sugar and spice mixture evenly over the bacon strips. Gently pat the mixture onto the bacon to ensure even coverage.
- Bake the bacon in the preheated oven for 20–30 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of crispiness. Watch closely towards the end of baking to prevent the sugar from burning.
- Carefully transfer the cooked bacon to a wire rack to cool slightly before serving. Be cautious as the hot sugar coating can cause burns.
