Name: Maple-Candied Bacon
Prep time: 2 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 27 min
Ingredients: 8 slices thick-cut bacon; 2 tbsp maple syrup; 2 tbsp brown sugar; 1/4 tsp black pepper

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Smoky-salty bacon caramelized in a quick maple-brown sugar glaze. Irresistible for weekend breakfast, brunch, or a fun snack!

Recipe Snapshot

🍽️ Serves: 4
⏱️ Prep Time: 5 minutes
🍳 Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
💰 Cost Estimate: $2.00 per serving

Clever Tip:

Use thick-cut bacon for best texture. Line the baking sheet for easy cleanup!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ultra crispy and packed with sweet-salty flavor
Only a few ingredients and almost no prep time
Perfect for brunch, snacking, or gifting
Easy to double or prep ahead for crowd-pleasing success
No need for a frying pan—oven does the work!

Ingredient Notes

Thick-cut bacon: Best for chewy-crisp candy texture
Maple syrup: Real maple for depth, but honey works too
Brown sugar: Adds caramel flavor and glaze
Black pepper: Kicks up the smoky notes
Cayenne: Optional, for a little heat

Ingredients

▢ 8 slices thick-cut bacon
▢ 2 tbsp maple syrup
▢ 2 tbsp brown sugar
▢ 1/4 tsp black pepper
▢ Optional: pinch of cayenne

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
Arrange bacon slices in a single layer. Brush lightly with maple syrup and sprinkle with brown sugar, black pepper, and cayenne if using.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until deeply caramelized and crisp.
Let cool for 5 minutes before serving or storing.

Helpful Tips

Don’t overcrowd the pan. Bacon should be in a single layer for even cooking.
Check at 18 minutes. Bacon can go from perfect to burnt quickly!
Use foil for easy cleaning if you don’t have parchment.

Expert Tips for the Best Results

For extra crunch, let bacon cool completely before storing.
Add a sprinkle of flaky salt or a drizzle of balsamic for a flavor twist.
Let kids help with brushing syrup—super easy and fun!

Meal Prep & Freezing Tips

Prep Ahead: Bacon can be glazed and refrigerated overnight before baking.
Storage: Keep cooled bacon in an airtight container in the fridge up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze between layers of parchment; reheat in oven until crisp.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use regular bacon? Yes, but reduce baking time by a few minutes.
Can I make this without maple syrup? Use honey or skip sweetener for a savory-only version.
How do I get extra crisp? Bake bacon on a wire rack set over the sheet pan for more airflow.
What’s the best way to store leftovers? Let it cool completely; keep in airtight container (fridge or freezer).

Conclusion

Maple-Candied Bacon is an easy, delicious, and crowd-pleasing treat perfect for breakfast or snacking. Make a big batch for brunch, holidays, or gifting!