What You’ll Need
- Thick-cut bacon. One pound gives you about 10 to 12 slices. Arrange them in a single layer so they cook evenly.
- Brown sugar. Use light brown sugar for a milder glaze or dark brown sugar for a deeper molasses flavor.
- Pure maple syrup. Two tablespoons bring the sugar together into a thick paste you can press onto the bacon.
How to Make Maple Brown Sugar Candied Bacon
Line a large rimmed baking sheet with foil to catch the drippings. Lay the bacon directly on the foil or set an oven-safe wire rack inside the pan for crisper edges. Stir the brown sugar and maple syrup together, then spread a thin, even layer over the top of each strip.
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 to 25 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through. Look for deep golden bacon, bubbling glaze, and edges that are starting to crisp. Extra-thick slices may need up to 30 minutes. Watch closely near the end because the sugar browns quickly.
Let the Glaze Set Before Serving
Let the bacon rest on the tray for 5 to 10 minutes. The glaze thickens as it cools. Lift the strips with tongs while they’re still slightly warm so they release more easily. Serve warm or at room temperature. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
3-Ingredient Candied Bacon Recipe Card
Thick-cut bacon baked with a glossy maple and brown sugar coating.
- Prep time — About 10 minutes
- Bake time — 20 to 25 minutes, or up to 30 minutes for extra-thick slices
- Rest time — 5 to 10 minutes
- Servings — 6
Ingredients
- 1 pound thick-cut bacon (about 10 to 12 slices)
- 1 cup packed light or dark brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup, plus more if needed
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large rimmed baking sheet with foil, folding it up over the edges. Set an oven-safe wire rack inside the pan if desired.
- Arrange the bacon slices in a single layer on the foil or rack without overlapping.
- Stir the brown sugar and maple syrup together until they form a thick, sandy paste. If the mixture is too dry to spread, add more maple syrup 1 teaspoon at a time.
- Divide the mixture among the bacon slices and press it into a thin, even layer on top of each strip.
- Bake on the center rack for 20 to 25 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through, until the bacon is deep golden and the glaze is bubbling. Extra-thick slices may need up to 30 minutes.
- Let the bacon rest on the tray for 5 to 10 minutes. Transfer the strips to a serving platter and serve warm or at room temperature.