Sweet and Savory Brown Sugar Bacon
This Sweet and Savory Brown Sugar Bacon recipe takes classic bacon to a whole new level with a perfect balance of sweetness, smokiness, and a hint of spice.
The caramelized brown sugar glaze and a touch of seasoning make this bacon irresistible. It’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a decadent addition to salads, sandwiches, and appetizers.
Sweet and Savory Brown Sugar Bacon
Can I just say one thing?
Photographing bacon is impossible. No matter how hard I tried, it didn’t look pretty. So why am I so frustrated?
Because this bacon tastes fantastic! It’s sweet and savory and spicy. It’s one of the best things ever and is great with eggs (which we had for breakfast yesterday and today), but I am sure vanilla ice cream and this baco would also be delicious.
Where Did I Come Up With This Recipe?
Many years ago, I ordered bacon with my breakfast at Julienne’s, an adorable cafe near our home. The bacon was out of this world!
If you have ever dined with me, then you are familiar with my (bad) habit, which is pestering waiters and chefs for their recipes. Most times it works. Just ask politely and be persistent!
I couldn’t get the recipe but was told to use brown sugar. I think that was the only ingredient they used. Over time, I added a few more ingredients, and now the recipe is perfect.
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Why is This Savory Brown Sugar Bacon So Delicious?
This Sweet and Savory Brown Sugar Bacon is so delicious because it combines flavors and textures in a truly irresistible way. Here’s what makes it stand out:
Perfect Balance of Sweet and Savory
The brown sugar and maple syrup add a caramelized sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the natural saltiness of the bacon. This combination satisfies both sweet and savory cravings in every bite.
Smoky Depth
The smoked paprika enhances the bacon’s natural smoky flavor, making it more complex and rich. This extra layer of smokiness is a game-changer, especially when combined with the glaze’s sweetness.
A Touch of Spice
The hint of cayenne pepper adds just the right amount of heat, which cuts through the sweetness and elevates the overall flavor. It’s subtle but adds a dynamic kick that keeps you returning for more.
Crispy and Sticky Texture
Baking the bacon on a wire rack ensures it becomes perfectly crispy, allowing the glaze to caramelize without burning. The sticky, glossy finish creates an irresistible texture that’s both crunchy and chewy.
Aromatic and Flavorful
Adding Dijon mustard gives the glaze a slight tang, enhancing its depth and creating a more balanced flavor profile. The result is bacon that’s aromatic, layered, and unforgettable.
Versatile and Crowd-Pleasing
This bacon isn’t just for breakfast—it’s versatile enough to serve as a brunch showstopper, a salad topper, or even a decadent snack. Its universal appeal makes it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
The magic of this recipe lies in how it amplifies everything you already love about bacon. It’s salty, sweet, smoky, spicy, crispy, and sticky—all at once! Each bite is a perfect mixture of flavors and textures, making this bacon utterly delicious.
So Easy to Make
I made this recipe in about 15 minutes, and it baked for about 30 minutes. You can easily make this in the morning for breakfast. However, it’s good enough for dessert!
Sweet and Savory Brown Sugar Bacon
This Sweet and Savory Brown Sugar Bacon is the ultimate treat for bacon lovers. The combination of caramelized brown sugar, smoky paprika, and a touch of maple syrup makes it the perfect indulgence for any occasion. Enjoy it as-is, or use it to elevate your favorite recipes!
Ingredients
- 1 pound thick-cut bacon (12–16 slices)
- ½ cup brown sugar (light or dark)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a kick)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup and place a wire rack on top. This allows the bacon to cook evenly and the fat to drip off.
- Arrange the bacon slices in a single layer on the wire rack. Make sure the slices do not overlap.
- In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), and black pepper.
- Stir in the maple syrup and Dijon mustard until it forms a thick paste.
- Using a pastry brush or spoon, spread the brown sugar glaze evenly over one side of each bacon slice.
- Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 25–35 minutes, depending on the thickness of the bacon and your desired level of crispiness.
- Check the bacon frequently to make sure it cooks perfectly. I like crisp bacon so I must have checked mine at least five times!
- For extra caramelization, turn the oven to broil for the last 1–2 minutes. Keep a close eye on it to avoid burning.
- Remove the bacon from the oven and let it cool on the rack for 5–10 minutes. This allows the glaze to set and the bacon to crisp up further.
Tips for the Best Bacon Ever
Thicker Is Better: Use thick-cut bacon for the best texture and to hold the glaze without burning.
Customize the Spice: Adjust the cayenne and paprika to your preferred heat level or omit them for a milder flavor.
Double the Batch: Make extra—this bacon tends to disappear fast!
This Sweet and Savory Brown Sugar Bacon is the ultimate treat for bacon lovers. The combination of caramelized brown sugar, smoky paprika, and a touch of maple syrup makes it the perfect indulgence for any occasion. Enjoy it as-is, or use it to elevate your favorite recipes!
A Healthy, Sweet, and Savory Bacon Recipe: Maple and Smoked Paprika Turkey Bacon
This recipe swaps traditional bacon for turkey bacon, reduces sugar, and uses natural flavors to create a healthier version of sweet and savory bacon without sacrificing taste.
Ingredients
- 8 slices of turkey bacon
- 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- Optional: 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (for a spicy kick)
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, mix the maple syrup, smoked paprika, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
3. Coat the Turkey Bacon: Lay the turkey bacon slices on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Brush both sides of each slice with the maple syrup mixture.
4. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 8-10 minutes. Flip the bacon slices and bake for another 8-10 minutes or until the edges are crispy and caramelized. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
5. Cool and Serve: Remove the bacon from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. The glaze will set slightly as it cools. Serve warm as a side dish, topping for salads, or crumbled over roasted vegetables.
Why It’s Healthier:
- Turkey Bacon: Lower in fat and calories compared to pork bacon.
- Maple Syrup: A natural sweetener that’s used sparingly for flavor.
- Smoked Paprika: Adds rich, smoky flavor without extra sodium or additives.
This healthier take on sweet and savory bacon is perfect for brunch, snacks, or as a guilt-free indulgence!
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I had a similar bacon at a B&B in Cody,Wyoming…it was called barbed wire bacon. The bacon had the brown sugar and two pieces were braised together and rosemary sprinkled on them and then baked in the oven. They were served with pumpkin pancakes. So delicious!
It sounds/looks amazing…and your pix of it are great!