Candied Bacon Bites are sweet, salty treats that everyone loves! Crispy bacon is coated in brown sugar and baked to perfection, making them a perfect snack for parties.
These little bites are like a hug for your taste buds! I love serving them at gatherings. They vanish faster than you can say “bacon”! 🥓
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bacon: Thick-cut bacon is the best choice for these bites because it crisps up nicely and holds its shape. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use turkey bacon, though it won’t get as crispy.
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds a rich sweetness that compliments the bacon’s salty flavor. If you’re out of brown sugar, you can substitute it with regular white sugar mixed with a touch of molasses or honey for a similar taste.
Black Pepper: This ingredient is optional, but it gives a lovely hint of spice. If you like it a bit hotter, consider using cayenne pepper or smoked paprika instead. It adds an interesting twist!
Flaked Sea Salt: A sprinkle of sea salt at the end enhances the flavors. If you don’t have flaked sea salt, regular kosher salt will work fine, just use less to avoid overpowering the sweetness.
How Do I Ensure My Bacon is Perfectly Candied?
Making sure your bacon has the right texture and flavor is key! Follow these simple tips:
- Preheat the oven well before starting to ensure even cooking and caramelization.
- Arrange the bacon without overlapping too much so that it gets crispy on all sides.
- Keep an eye on the baking time! Ovens can vary, so check every few minutes after the 20-minute mark.
- Let the bacon cool on the baking sheet. This is important to allow it to firm up into tasty bites.
By following these steps, you’ll have perfectly crispy and sweet candied bacon bites that everyone will love!
Candied Bacon Bites
Ingredients:
- 1 pound thick-cut bacon
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar (light or dark)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (optional)
- Flaked sea salt for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to bake, making it a total of around 30 minutes from start to finish. In no time, you will have delicious, sweet, and savory candied bacon bites ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is perfect for turning the bacon crispy and caramelizing the sugar. While the oven is heating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or use a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.
2. Arrange the Bacon
Take the thick-cut bacon and lay it out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. If your bacon slices are long, you might need to slightly overlap them. Just ensure they fit snugly without too much stacking.
3. Add Brown Sugar and Pepper
Next, generously sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over each slice of bacon. If you enjoy a little extra flavor, you can also add a light dusting of black pepper. It adds a fantastic contrast to the sweet taste!
4. Bake For Perfection
Pop the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for about 20 to 25 minutes. Keep an eye on the bacon as it cooks; you want it to be crispy and caramelized, but not burnt. The sugar should melt into a shiny coating.
5. Cool the Bacon Bites
Once your bacon is looking scrumptious, remove it from the oven and let it cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This resting time allows the bacon to crisp up even more as it cools down.
6. Cut Into Bites
After cooling, carefully cut or break each slice of bacon into bite-sized pieces. These little morsels are easier to eat and make for perfect party snacks!
7. Garnish and Serve
Transfer the candied bacon bites to a serving platter. For a special touch, sprinkle lightly with flaked sea salt to enhance the delicious sweet and salty flavors. Now they are ready to wow your guests!
8. Enjoy!
These candied bacon bites can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. They’re perfect as a snack, appetizer, or a delightful treat to serve with your favorite drinks. Everyone will love them!
Have a great time making these tasty treats!
Can I Use Regular-Cut Bacon Instead of Thick-Cut?
Yes, you can use regular-cut bacon, but be aware that it cooks faster and may not achieve the same crispy texture. Keep an eye on it as it bakes and check for doneness a few minutes earlier than the recommended time.
How Should I Store Leftover Candied Bacon Bites?
Store any leftover candied bacon bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain their crispness.
Can I Make These Bacon Bites Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the candied bacon bites in advance and store them in the fridge. Reheat them in the oven just before serving to enjoy that crispy goodness again!
What Can I Use Instead of Brown Sugar?
If you’re out of brown sugar, you can substitute it with white sugar mixed with a bit of molasses to replicate the flavor and color. For a quick fix, light corn syrup can also work, but the taste will be slightly different.
