Million Dollar Bacon, also known as Candied Bacon, is the perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors. This easy candied bacon recipe transforms ordinary bacon into a gourmet treat, making it the star of any breakfast or brunch. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or just want a decadent side for your morning meal, this recipe for Million Dollar Bacon is a must-try.
Why Is It Called Million Dollar Bacon?
Million Dollar Bacon got its name because it tastes like a million dollars! This luxurious dish is a perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors, making it an irresistible treat for any occasion. The combination of brown sugar, cayenne pepper, and maple syrup creates a rich, caramelized coating that elevates the humble bacon to gourmet status. The recipe’s popularity has soared, with many considering it the ultimate indulgence—something so delicious it could easily be worth its weight in gold. Whether served at brunch or as a special breakfast treat, Million Dollar Bacon is a dish that makes everyone feel like they’re living the high life.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This candied bacon recipe requires just a few ingredients and minimal prep time.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for brunches, parties, or as a special breakfast treat, this sweet and spicy bacon is sure to impress.
- Versatile: Use it in sandwiches, salads, or enjoy it on its own as a delicious snack.
Jump to:
- Why Is It Called Million Dollar Bacon?
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ingredients Needed
- How to Make Million Dollar Bacon
- Expert Cooking Tips
- Serving Suggestions
- Pairings
- Variations
- Nutritional Information (per serving)
- FAQ
- Storage and Leftovers
- Reheating Instructions
- Kitchen Essentials and Items Used in Recipe
- Million Dollar Bacon
Ingredients Needed
Choosing the right ingredients is essential for making the best Million Dollar Bacon. High-quality, thick-cut bacon provides a satisfying chew and holds up well during the caramelization process. Opt for pure maple syrup over artificial versions to achieve a richer flavor and better consistency in your candied bacon recipe. Adjust the cayenne pepper to suit your spice tolerance, making this dish as mild or as spicy as you like.
- 1 pound thick-sliced bacon: The thicker, the better for a meatier bite in this Million Dollar Bacon recipe.
- 6 Tbsp. brown sugar: Adds the perfect level of sweetness and caramelization.
- 1/2 tsp. black pepper: Provides a balanced spice and enhances the overall flavor.
- 1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper: Adds a subtle heat to contrast with the sweetness.
- 1/2 Tbsp. red chili flakes: Brings an extra layer of spiciness for those who like a bit more heat.
- 1 Tbsp. maple syrup (optional): Drizzle at the end for added sweetness and flavor (optional).
How to Make Million Dollar Bacon
Oven Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare a baking sheet: Line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Mix the seasoning: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and red chili flakes.
- Prepare the bacon: Lay the bacon strips flat on the prepared baking sheet. Generously sprinkle the sugar and spice mixture over the bacon, pressing it into the surface. Flip the bacon and repeat the process on the other side.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and caramelized. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes to ensure it doesn’t burn.
- Optional maple syrup drizzle: If using, drizzle the maple syrup over the bacon once it’s out of the oven for an extra layer of sweetness.
- Cool and Serve: Let the bacon cool slightly on the parchment paper before serving. The glaze will harden as it cools, giving it a perfect candied texture.
Oven-Style Air Fryer Instructions
- Preheat your oven-style air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the bacon: Lay the bacon strips flat on the air fryer tray or rack. Make sure the bacon is in a single layer and not overlapping to ensure even cooking.
- Season the bacon: In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and red chili flakes. Generously sprinkle the mixture over the bacon strips, pressing it into the bacon to adhere. Flip the bacon and repeat on the other side.
- Cook the bacon: Insert the tray or rack into the air fryer and cook for 20 to 25 minutes, depending on the thickness of your bacon and the desired level of crispiness. Check halfway through cooking and rotate the tray if necessary to ensure even cooking.
- Optional maple syrup drizzle: If using, drizzle the maple syrup over the bacon immediately after removing it from the air fryer for an extra layer of sweetness.
- Cool and Serve: Let the bacon cool slightly on the rack or a plate before serving. The glaze will harden as it cools, giving it a perfect candied texture.
Expert Cooking Tips
- Watch the Bacon Closely: Sugar can burn quickly, so keep a close eye on the bacon during the last few minutes of baking to ensure it doesn’t get too dark.
- Use Parchment Paper: This helps prevent the bacon from sticking to the pan and makes cleanup easier.
- Customize the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the cayenne pepper and red chili flakes. For extra heat, consider adding a bit more of each.
Serving Suggestions
Million Dollar Bacon is versatile and can be served in various ways:
- Brunch Pairing: Serve this sweet and savory bacon alongside fluffy Belgian waffles. The crispiness of the bacon complements the light texture of the waffles, especially when topped with a drizzle of maple syrup.
- Breakfast Delight: Pair the bacon with poached eggs for a sophisticated morning meal. The runny yolk from the eggs enhances the rich flavor of the caramelized bacon, creating a satisfying combination.
- Salad Topping: Crumble the bacon over a fresh spinach or mixed greens salad. The sweet and smoky crunch adds depth to a simple salad, especially when paired with a tangy vinaigrette.
- Appetizer Bites: Cut the bacon into bite-sized pieces and serve as a finger food at parties. It’s a crowd-pleaser that pairs well with a variety of dips and small bites.
- Sandwich Upgrade: Add the bacon to a classic BLT or breakfast sandwich. The candied coating elevates the sandwich, making it more indulgent and flavorful.
- Dessert Surprise: For a unique twist, pair the bacon with dark chocolate or crumble it over vanilla ice cream. The sweet and salty contrast creates an unforgettable dessert experience.
Pairings
Million Dollar Bacon pairs wonderfully with:
- Mimosas: The citrus notes in a mimosa balance the sweetness of the bacon.
- Avocado Toast: The creamy texture of avocado contrasts nicely with the crispy, sweet bacon.
- French Toast: The savory and sweet elements of both dishes complement each other perfectly.
- Maple-Glazed Donuts: Enhance the maple flavor by serving the bacon alongside maple-glazed donuts for the ultimate breakfast indulgence.
Variations
This candied bacon recipe is versatile and can be customized in several ways:
- Spicy Maple Candied Bacon: Add extra cayenne pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a more intense spicy kick.
- Pepper-Crusted Candied Bacon: Sprinkle cracked black pepper over the bacon before baking for a peppery twist.
- Brown Sugar and Honey Glazed Bacon: Swap out the maple syrup for honey to create a different but equally delicious flavor profile.
- Bourbon-Infused Candied Bacon: Add a tablespoon of bourbon to the glaze for a rich, smoky flavor that pairs well with the sweetness.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 220
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 380mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 16g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 15g
- Protein: 7g
FAQ
Yes, you can use turkey bacon if you prefer. However, the texture and flavor will differ slightly. Turkey bacon tends to be leaner, so it may not caramelize as well as pork bacon in this candied bacon recipe.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore its crispiness.
Yes, you can prepare the bacon up to a day in advance. After baking, allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat it in the oven just before serving to bring back its crisp texture.
If your bacon starts to burn, reduce the oven temperature slightly or check it earlier than the suggested baking time. The sugar in the glaze can cause it to burn quickly, so keep a close eye on it during the baking process.
Storage and Leftovers
To store leftover Million Dollar Bacon, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, follow these reheating instructions:
Reheating Instructions
- Oven Reheating: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the bacon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Reheat for 5-7 minutes, or until the bacon is warmed through and crispy. This method helps maintain the bacon’s original texture.
- Air Fryer Reheating: If you have an air fryer, you can reheat the bacon at 325°F (160°C) for 3-4 minutes. This method is quick and keeps the bacon crispy.
- Microwave Reheating: Although not recommended for maintaining crispiness, you can reheat the bacon in the microwave. Place the bacon on a microwave-safe plate lined with a paper towel and microwave on high for 15-20 seconds. Be cautious as the bacon may lose some of its crisp texture.
Kitchen Essentials and Items Used in Recipe
Nordic Ware Natural Aluminum Commercial Baker’s Half Sheet
AmazonBasics Silicone Baking Mat
COSORI 12-in-1 Oven Air Fryer Combo, Convection Toaster
Reynolds Kitchens Unbleached Parchment Paper
Checkered Chef Cooling Rack
Million Dollar Bacon
Ingredients
- 1 Pound Thick Sliced Bacon
- 6 Tbsp. Brown Sugar
- 1/2 tsp. Black Pepper
- 1/4 tsp. Cayenne Pepper
- 1/2 Tbsp. Red Chili Flakes
- 1 Tbsp. Maple Syrup (Drizzle at End) Optional. I leave it out.
Instructions
Directions
- Preheat Oven to 350 Degrees
- Line a Baking Sheet with Parchment Paper
- Mix together Brown Sugar and Spices
- Lay Bacon flat on Baking Sheet. Put a generous amount of the sugar and spice mixture on the bacon. Press into bacon. Flip bacon and repeat process.
- Bake in oven 35 to 40 minutes.
- Serves 4
