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Millionaire’s Bacon (Candied Spicy Bacon)

Close-up of crispy, caramelized Millionaire bacon slices piled on a white plate, glistening in natural light.

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Make thick-cut bacon coated in a sweet and spicy glaze, baked slowly until caramelized and chewy.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb thick-cut bacon
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or chili flakes, optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Place a wire cooling rack on top of the lined baking sheet.
  2. Arrange the bacon strips in a single layer on the wire rack. Do not let the strips overlap.
  3. In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, maple syrup, black pepper, and cayenne pepper until combined.
  4. Brush or spoon the sugar mixture evenly over the top side of each bacon strip.
  5. Bake for 15 minutes.
  6. Remove the pan from the oven. Carefully flip each bacon strip over. Brush the remaining sugar mixture onto the second side.
  7. Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 10 to 20 minutes. Watch closely after the 10-minute mark, as the sugar can burn quickly.
  8. The bacon is done when it is deeply caramelized, sticky, and cooked to your preferred crispness.
  9. Remove the bacon from the oven and immediately transfer the strips to a plate lined with parchment paper to cool and set. The bacon will firm up as it cools.

Notes

  • For extra crispness, ensure the bacon is in a single layer on the rack so heat circulates around each strip.
  • If you prefer a less spicy flavor, omit the cayenne pepper or use only a pinch.
  • This bacon is best served warm shortly after cooling slightly.

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