1. Preheat and Prepare:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Place a wire rack over the baking sheet to allow air to circulate and keep the bacon crispy.
2. Mix the Glaze:
In a small bowl, combine the light brown sugar, freshly cracked black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Stir until evenly blended. Set aside.
3. Prepare the Bacon:
Lay the thick-cut bacon strips in a single layer on the wire rack. Brush each strip generously with maple syrup, then sprinkle the sugar and spice mixture evenly on top, pressing gently so it adheres.
4. Bake:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and caramelized. Keep an eye on it near the end to prevent burning, as sugar can caramelize quickly.
5. Cool and Serve:
Remove the bacon from the oven and let it cool slightly on the rack. This allows the glaze to set and ensures perfect texture. Serve warm for the ultimate indulgence.
Serving and Storage:
Serve Million Dollar Bacon as a side with breakfast or brunch, atop salads, baked potatoes, or even as a sweet-savory snack on its own. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven to retain crispiness, or enjoy cold for a sweet, smoky treat.
Tips and Tricks:
- Use thick-cut bacon for maximum flavor and texture.
- Adjust cayenne pepper to your heat preference; start small if you prefer mild spice.
- For extra crunch, broil for the last 1–2 minutes—but watch carefully to avoid burning.
- Try adding a pinch of smoked paprika for an additional smoky depth.
- Maple syrup can be substituted with honey for a slightly different sweetness profile.
Variations:
- Chocolate Bacon: After baking, drizzle melted dark chocolate over cooled bacon for a decadent twist.
- Pecan-Encrusted Bacon: Sprinkle finely chopped pecans over the sugar-spice mixture before baking.
- Maple-Sriracha Bacon: Mix sriracha into the maple syrup before brushing for a sweet and spicy kick.
Conclusion:
Million Dollar Bacon is an easy but extraordinary way to elevate breakfast or snack time. The combination of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors makes it addictive and unforgettable. Once you try this recipe, you’ll see why it’s a crowd favorite that turns ordinary bacon into something truly spectacular.
FAQ:
Can I make this bacon ahead of time?
Yes! Bake the bacon, let it cool, and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best texture.
Can I use regular bacon instead of thick-cut?
Yes, but thin bacon may cook faster and be less crispy after glazing. Watch it carefully while baking.
Is this bacon spicy?
The cayenne pepper adds a gentle heat. Adjust to taste, or omit for a purely sweet version.
Can I freeze Million Dollar Bacon?
Yes, you can freeze cooked bacon in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven to restore crispiness.
What is the best way to serve it?
Serve it hot for breakfast or brunch, crumbled over salads, or as a snack with coffee or cocktails. It’s also great as a topping for baked potatoes or burgers!
Comment “Yummy” if you want more sweet, spicy, and irresistible bacon recipes! 🥓🍁🔥