Sweet & Spicy Candied Bacon Recipe: Elevate Your Bacon Game

Ingredients

Glaze / Marinade

• ¼ cup pure maple syrup
• 2 Tbsp dark brown sugar, packed
• 1 Tbsp apple cider vinegar
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper
• ½ tsp smoked paprika

Seasonings & Finishing

• ¼ tsp flaky sea salt
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Bake & Caramelize

1. Preheat the oven. Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and let it fully heat for at least 10 minutes. A hot oven jump‑starts the caramelization process, preventing the bacon from steaming.
2. Bake the bacon. Slide the prepared sheet pan onto the middle rack and bake for 15‑18 minutes, watching closely. The edges should turn a deep amber while the fat renders. If you prefer extra crispness, extend the time by 2‑3 minutes, but keep an eye on the glaze to avoid burning.
3. Broil for finish. Switch the oven to broil, moving the pan to the top rack. Broil for 1‑2 minutes until the glaze bubbles and caramelizes into a glossy, crackly crust. This final burst of heat creates that signature candied snap.
4. Season. Immediately after removing from the oven, sprinkle ¼ tsp flaky sea salt and a pinch of freshly ground black pepper over the hot bacon. The salt adheres to the still‑sticky glaze, adding a pop of texture.