There’s something almost magical about the transformation that happens when thick-cut bacon meets the deep, complex flavors of bourbon and the natural sweetness of pure maple syrup. This Maple Bourbon Candied Bacon isn’t just breakfast – it’s an experience that transcends ordinary meals and enters the realm of culinary indulgence. Each bite delivers a perfect harmony of smoky, sweet, and slightly spicy notes that dance across your taste buds and leave you reaching for “just one more piece” (though we both know it’s never just one).
Whether you’re serving this as part of a showstopping brunch spread, chopping it into decadent salad toppers, or simply enjoying it as a protein-packed snack, this recipe elevates humble bacon to an art form. The maple bourbon glaze creates a lacquered finish that’s simultaneously sticky, crispy, and utterly irresistible. I first created this recipe for a holiday gathering, and now it’s requested at every family event – it disappears faster than I can make it! Let me show you how easy it is to create this crowd-pleasing delicacy that’ll have everyone asking for your secret.
The beauty of Maple Bourbon Candied Bacon lies in its versatility. Beyond being a standalone treat, these sweet-savory strips can elevate countless dishes. Crumble them over vanilla ice cream for a dessert that hits all the pleasure centers. Chop them into pieces for the ultimate upgrade to your Brussels sprouts or roasted vegetables. Add them to a cheese board for an unexpected twist that pairs beautifully with aged cheddar or creamy brie. I’ve even seen friends wrap these candied strips around dates stuffed with goat cheese for an appetizer that disappears within minutes at any gathering.
What makes this recipe special is the careful balance of flavors and the technique that ensures perfect texture. The bourbon isn’t just there for flavor – its alcohol content helps break down the fat in the bacon, creating a more complex taste profile while aiding in that perfect crispy-yet-chewy texture we’re aiming for. Meanwhile, the real maple syrup (please, no pancake syrup substitutes here!) caramelizes beautifully, creating that candy-like coating that makes this bacon so addictive.
Maple Bourbon Candied Bacon
Thick-cut bacon glazed with a heavenly combination of maple syrup, bourbon, and brown sugar, then baked to crispy-edged perfection. This sweet and savory treat is perfect for brunch, appetizers, or anytime you want to elevate your bacon game.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound thick-cut bacon (about 10-12 slices)
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup (the real stuff, not pancake syrup)
- 1/4 cup bourbon (use a good quality one you’d enjoy drinking)
- 1/3 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a slight heat)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil, then place a wire rack on top. This setup is crucial – it allows the fat to drip away while the bacon cooks, ensuring that perfect texture. Lightly spray the rack with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, bourbon, brown sugar, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using) until the sugar has mostly dissolved. The mixture should be smooth and well combined, with the bourbon fully incorporated into the syrup.
3. Arrange the bacon strips on the prepared wire rack, making sure they don’t overlap. This ensures even cooking and allows each piece to get perfectly glazed. If necessary, use two baking sheets to avoid overcrowding.
4. Using a pastry brush, generously coat both sides of each bacon slice with the maple-bourbon mixture. Don’t worry about using it all at once – we’ll be applying more during the cooking process.
5. Bake the bacon in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Remove from the oven and carefully flip each slice. Brush the bacon with more of the maple-bourbon mixture. The mixture will have thickened slightly as it sits, which is perfect for glazing.
6. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, watching carefully in the final minutes to prevent burning. The bacon is done when it looks caramelized and has darkened in color, but hasn’t burnt. Remember that it will continue to crisp up as it cools.
7. Remove from the oven and let the bacon cool on the rack for about 5 minutes. It will be very hot and soft at first but will firm up as it cools. If you try to move it too soon, the glaze might stick to the rack.
8. Transfer to a serving plate and enjoy while still slightly warm, or let cool completely and store in an airtight container. The bacon can be made up to 2 days ahead and refrigerated, though it’s at its most magical when fresh.
Chef’s Tips:
For an extra layer of flavor, try adding 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of smoked paprika to the glaze. The subtle warmth these spices bring complements the maple and bourbon beautifully. If you’re feeling particularly adventurous, a tiny pinch of ground cloves can add an intriguing depth that makes people wonder what your secret ingredient might be.
The quality of your ingredients makes a significant difference in this recipe. Use the best thick-cut bacon you can find – I prefer applewood or hickory smoked varieties for their complementary flavor profiles. Similarly, choose a bourbon you’d enjoy sipping. While you don’t need to use your finest small-batch reserve, a mid-range bourbon will contribute more nuanced flavors than the cheapest option available.
If you’re serving this as part of a brunch spread, consider preparing it just before guests arrive. The aroma that fills your kitchen as this bacon bakes is an experience in itself – a tantalizing blend of smoky, sweet, and boozy notes that builds anticipation for the meal to come. There’s nothing quite like walking into a home filled with the scent of Maple Bourbon Candied Bacon – it’s the ultimate welcome.
For those who prefer a spicier version, increase the cayenne to 1/2 teaspoon or add a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the glaze. The heat creates a wonderful contrast to the sweetness, especially if you’re serving this as an appetizer with cocktails. The combination of sweet, spicy, and boozy is absolutely unbeatable and keeps people coming back for “just one more piece” until the plate is mysteriously empty.
Whether you’re making this decadent treat for a special brunch, as a unique appetizer, or simply because you deserve something extraordinary on an ordinary day, this Maple Bourbon Candied Bacon is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Just be prepared to share the recipe – and perhaps make a double batch next time!
