Candied Bacon Bites are a sweet and salty treat that will make your taste buds dance! Crispy bacon is coated in sugar, giving it a delightful glaze that makes it irresistible.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bacon: Thick-cut bacon is great for these bites as it holds up well during cooking. If you prefer turkey bacon or a vegetarian option, you can try tempeh or coconut bacon. Keep in mind that cook times may vary.
Brown Sugar: Light or dark brown sugar will work well. Dark brown sugar has a richer flavor. You can substitute with coconut sugar for a less processed option, but it might alter the taste slightly.
Cayenne Pepper: This is optional for some heat! If you’re not into spicy, you can leave it out or replace it with a dash of smoked paprika for a different flavor twist.
Flaky Sea Salt: Adds a nice finishing touch. If you don’t have it, regular salt can work, but use it sparingly as it’s more concentrated.
What’s the Best Way to Get Crispy Candied Bacon?
Getting the perfect crispy texture on your bacon bites is key. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure to use a wire rack over the baking sheet. This ensures the heat circulates around the bacon, making it crispy on all sides.
- Don’t overcrowd the bacon pieces on the rack. Air circulation is crucial for that crunch.
- Keep an eye on the bacon during the last few minutes of baking. Sugar can burn quickly, so it’s best to check often!
Let the bites cool on the rack after baking. They will firm up and become even crunchier. Enjoy your tasty treat!
Candied Bacon Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 slices of thick-cut bacon
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a slight kick)
- Flaky sea salt, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20-25 minutes to bake, totaling around 35-40 minutes. It’s quick and easy, making it a perfect choice for snacks or appetizers anytime!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is the perfect temperature for getting your bacon nice and crispy.
2. Prepare the Sugar Mixture:
In a shallow bowl or plate, combine the brown sugar with cayenne pepper if you like a bit of spice. Mix them together until it’s nice and uniform.
3. Coat the Bacon:
Take your bacon slices and lay them flat. Sprinkle or press the brown sugar mixture onto one side, ensuring they are well-coated. The more sugar, the sweeter and crispier they will be!
4. Cut into Bites:
Use a knife to cut each sugared bacon slice into thirds—this will give you bite-sized pieces that are perfect for snacking.
5. Arrange on the Rack:
Place the cut bacon pieces sugar side up on the wire rack. Make sure to leave some space between each piece so they can cook evenly.
6. Bake the Bacon:
Put the rack in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes to make sure they don’t burn; you want them golden and caramelized!
7. Add Sea Salt:
Once they’re done baking, take them out and immediately sprinkle the warm bacon with flaky sea salt. This adds a fantastic flavor contrast to the sweetness.
8. Cool and Serve:
Let the candied bacon bites cool on the rack for a few minutes so they can firm up. They’ll become even more delicious as they cool!
9. Enjoy Your Treat:
Serve the candied bacon bites as a delicious snack or appetizer. They’ll be a hit at any gathering—enjoy!
These candied bacon bites are an amazing combination of sweet, salty, and just a hint of spice, with a wonderfully crispy texture that everyone will love!
Can I Use Other Types of Sugar?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of sugar! Coconut sugar can be used as a substitute for brown sugar, but it may slightly change the flavor. Just ensure the sugar you use can caramelize well for that delicious candied effect.
What If My Bacon Is Not Crispy Enough?
If your bacon isn’t crispy after the initial baking time, you can return it to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes. Keep an eye on it and check frequently to prevent burning!
How Should I Store Leftover Candied Bacon Bites?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through and crispy again.
Can I Make the Bacon Bites Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the bacon bites in advance and refrigerate them after baking. Just reheat in the oven before serving for that fresh, crispy texture!