Sweet, salty, smoky, rich with umami and a deliciously crispy-chewy texture, it’s everything Candied Bacon should be. It’s INSANELY delicious!
It’s hard to imagine bacon being any better than straight out of the frying pan.
But that’s where you’ll need to stretch the outer limits of your imagination because it does indeed get better. Much better.
At least for those moments you’re craving something both salty and sweet. It’s called candied bacon. Or bacon candy as I’ve also seen it called.
Sweet, salty, smoky, and umami galore with an irresistible crispy-chewy texture. That’s what you have to look forward to. And candied bacon is more versatile than you might think: Crumble it on creamy soups and chowders, salads, add it to sandwiches and even crumble it on desserts for a wow-worthy effect!
Of course my favorite way to enjoy it is all by its glorious self – it’s just insanely good!
Let’s get started!
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Use either mesh baking rack or line a baking pan with foil and spray with nonstick spray.
Lay the strips of bacon in a single layer on the rack or baking pan. Divide and drizzle the maple syrup over each slice.
Sprinkle some brown sugar over each slice and then grind some black pepper over them.
Be sure to use freshly ground black pepper for the best flavor. You’ll love the addition of its earthy spiciness along with the sweetness of the brown sugar and maple syrup.
Bake for about 25 minutes or until the bacon is crispy.
Let the candied bacon cool for a few minutes until they’ve firmed up.
Enjoy!
Be sure to also check out our tutorial on how to make Homemade Bacon!

Candied Bacon
Ingredients
- 1 pound thick cut bacon
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- freshly ground black pepper
- Homemade Bacon Recipe! (click link for a step-by-step tutorial, it's easy!)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Use either mesh baking rack or line a baking pan with foil and spray with nonstick spray.
- Lay the strips of bacon in a single layer on the rack or baking pan. Divide and drizzle the maple syrup over each slice followed by a sprinkling of brown sugar and a few grinds of black pepper. Bake for about 25 minutes or until the bacon is crispy. Let the candied bacon cool for a few minutes until they've firmed up.
Bill says
This bacon is wonderful in bloody marys.
Kathy Yanko says
can you make these ahead of time? will it still be crispy?
Kimberly @ The Daring Gourmet says
Hi Kathy, depending on how far in advance, yes it will still remain crispy.
Luquita Kroll says
This does sound delicious! I have made chocolate covered bacon and that has always been a hit a family get togethers. Thanks for sharing.