Description
This Candied Bacon recipe transforms thick-cut bacon into a sweet and savory treat coated with a flavorful blend of brown sugar and steak seasoning. Baked to crispy perfection in the oven, this indulgent snack or appetizer balances smoky, spicy, and sugary notes, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 1 pound thick cut bacon
- 1 cup light brown sugar (packed)
- 1 teaspoon Montreal’s Steak Seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (estimated, to complement recipe)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (estimated, optional for mild heat)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (estimated, adds depth)
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (estimated, for smoky flavor)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for baking the bacon to a crispy, caramelized finish.
- Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a large, rimmed baking sheet with two layers of aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Place a wire cooling rack on top of the foil-lined pan to elevate the bacon, allowing even heat circulation and fat drainage.
- Make Sugar Mixture: In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, Montreal’s Steak Seasoning, black pepper, red pepper flakes, garlic powder, and paprika. This spice blend will infuse the bacon with a complex, sweet, and savory flavor.
- Arrange Bacon: Lay the bacon slices on the prepared wire rack, spacing them so they do not overlap. Proper spacing ensures even cooking and crispiness.
- Coat Bacon: Generously sprinkle the sugar and seasoning mixture evenly over the top of each bacon slice, making sure to cover all exposed areas for maximum flavor and caramelization.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 35 minutes until the bacon is dark brown and crispy. Start watching closely at the 20-minute mark to prevent burning, as the sugar can caramelize quickly.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the bacon from the oven and let it cool slightly. Use a metal spatula to gently loosen each slice from the rack to prevent sticking. The bacon will continue to crisp up as it cools. Serve once cooled to your desired texture.
Notes
- Using a wire rack allows excess fat to drip away, resulting in crispier bacon.
- Watch the baking time closely starting at 20 minutes to avoid burning the sugar coating.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to control the heat level.
- For easier cleanup, foil lining is recommended.
- Candied bacon pairs well with breakfast dishes, salads, or as a snack on its own.
