Candied Bacon Bites are a sweet and salty treat that everyone loves! They’re made by baking crispy bacon with a sugary glaze that adds extra flavor.
These bites make for a fun snack or a tasty appetizer at parties. Just be careful, they might disappear quickly—who doesn’t love bacon wrapped in sweetness? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bacon: For the best flavor and texture, thick-cut bacon is ideal as it holds up well during cooking. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey or chicken bacon can work, though they may not get as crispy.
Brown Sugar: Light brown sugar adds a mild sweetness, while dark brown sugar provides a richer flavor due to more molasses. If you’re out of brown sugar, you can use white sugar mixed with a little molasses as a substitute!
Spices: The addition of black pepper or cayenne pepper gives a nice kick. If you’re sensitive to spice, you can skip it, or try a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor without much heat.
Garnish: Fresh parsley not only adds color but also a fresh taste. Lime zest is an unexpected twist that brightens the flavor. If you want a citrusy touch, lemon zest can also work well!
How Can I Ensure My Bacon Bites Are Perfectly Crispy?
Getting that perfect crispy texture is key! Here’s how to achieve it:
- Use a wire rack: Placing bacon on a wire rack allows hot air to circulate, which helps it cook evenly and reduces sogginess.
- Watch the time: Baking should take about 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on the bacon during the last few minutes to prevent burning due to the sugar.
- Cool on the rack: Allowing the bacon to cool on the wire rack helps it crisp up further as it cools.
With these tips, you’ll enjoy perfectly crispy, sweet, and savory Candied Bacon Bites every time!
Candied Bacon Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound thick-cut bacon
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper or cayenne pepper for a little spice
- Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley or lime zest for color contrast
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20-25 minutes to cook. In total, you should plan for about 35-40 minutes from start to finish. So, in less than an hour, you’ll have a delicious treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it’s hot and ready for the bacon. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil to make cleaning up easier. Next, set a wire rack on top of the baking sheet—this helps the bacon cook evenly and become crispy!
2. Cut the Bacon:
Now take your thick-cut bacon and cut each slice into 2 or 3 smaller pieces. The size depends on how big you want your bacon bites. Remember, smaller pieces will crispy up nicely!
3. Coat the Bacon:
On a flat plate or shallow dish, spread out the brown sugar evenly. Take each piece of bacon and press it into the sugar, ensuring all sides are coated. If you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle a little black pepper or cayenne pepper over the bacon after it’s coated to add some spice!
4. Arrange on the Rack:
Place each coated bacon piece on the wire rack in a single layer, leaving a little space between each piece. This helps them cook evenly and get that perfect crispiness.
5. Bake the Bacon Bites:
Pop the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Keep an eye on the bacon, especially near the end, to prevent burning, as the sugar can caramelize quickly.
6. Cool and Serve:
When the bacon is crispy and caramelized, take it out of the oven and let it cool on the wire rack for a few minutes. The bacon will harden slightly as it cools. For a fresh touch, feel free to garnish with chopped parsley or a sprinkle of lime zest!
7. Enjoy:
Serve your Candied Bacon Bites warm or at room temperature as a sweet and savory snack or delicious appetizer. They’re sure to be a hit!
Enjoy the crispy, sweet, and smoky goodness of these Candied Bacon Bites!
Can I Use Regular Bacon Instead of Thick-Cut?
Yes, you can use regular bacon, but keep in mind that it may cook faster than thick-cut bacon, so monitor it closely to avoid burning. Thin bacon might not hold up as well, so adjust your cooking time accordingly!
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the bacon bites in advance, coat them with brown sugar, and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Just bring them to room temperature before baking to ensure even cooking.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to get them nice and crispy again.
Can I Customize the Sweetness Level?
Definitely! If you prefer a less sweet version, you can reduce the amount of brown sugar you use. You can also experiment with different types of sugar, like coconut sugar, for a unique flavor!
