Million Dollar Bacon

Million Dollar Bacon is a decadent twist on classic bacon, perfect for elevating your brunch table or adding a gourmet touch to any meal. Coated in a flavorful mix of brown sugar, maple syrup, and spices, this recipe delivers the ultimate balance of sweetness, spice, and crunch. Whether you’re hosting guests or treating yourself, this irresistible dish will quickly become a favorite.

Ingredients

• ½ cup light brown sugar (packed)
• 1 teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (or chipotle powder for a smoky kick)
• 1 pound thick-cut bacon
• ¼ cup maple syrup

Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating the oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or heavy-duty aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Spray a cooling rack generously with nonstick cooking spray and place it on the baking sheet.
2. Prepare the Seasoning Mix: In a small mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, cracked black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Stir until the mixture is evenly blended.
3. Arrange the Bacon: Lay the strips of thick-cut bacon in a single layer on the prepared cooling rack. Make sure the bacon strips do not overlap.
4. Add the Brown Sugar Mixture: Spoon the seasoning mixture evenly over one side of each bacon strip. The mixture will create a delicious, caramelized crust as it bakes.
5. Bake the Bacon: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 15 minutes. Then rotate the baking sheet to ensure even cooking and bake for another 10–15 minutes or until the bacon is browned to your liking.
6. Add Maple Syrup: Remove the bacon from the oven and immediately drizzle maple syrup over the strips. Let the bacon rest on the cooling rack for 10 minutes to allow the glaze to set. Avoid placing the bacon on paper towels, as it may stick.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Transfer the bacon to a serving plate and enjoy this luxurious treat warm or at room temperature.

Why You’ll Love Million Dollar Bacon

• Perfectly Balanced Flavors: The combination of sweet brown sugar, spicy cayenne, and rich maple syrup creates a flavor explosion in every bite.
• Versatile and Impressive: Whether served as a brunch side, an appetizer, or a snack, this bacon adds a gourmet flair to any occasion.
• Simple to Make: With just a few ingredients and easy preparation steps, you can create a dish that looks and tastes like it came from a fancy restaurant.

Tips for Success

• Choose Thick-Cut Bacon: Thick slices hold up better to the glaze and deliver a chewy, satisfying texture.
• Customize the Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to suit your heat preference, or try chipotle powder for a smoky twist.
• Avoid Overlapping Bacon: Ensure the strips are arranged in a single layer for even cooking and caramelization.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Tips

• Best Served Fresh: Million Dollar Bacon is at its most delicious when served warm and freshly made. The caramelized glaze is sticky and flavorful, with a perfect balance of sweet and spicy.
• Brunch Star: Pair this bacon with classic breakfast dishes like scrambled eggs, pancakes, or waffles. It also complements savory sides like hash browns or avocado toast.
• Appetizer Option: Cut the bacon into smaller pieces and serve it as a crowd-pleasing appetizer at parties.
• Creative Additions: Use it as a topping for burgers, sandwiches, or salads to add a gourmet touch.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftover bacon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To prevent sticking, place a sheet of parchment paper between layers.
• Freezing: You can freeze Million Dollar Bacon for up to 1 month. Wrap each strip individually in wax paper and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: For the best texture, reheat the bacon in the oven at 350°F for 5–7 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the glaze sticky and the bacon soggy.

These tips ensure that your Million Dollar Bacon remains as flavorful and enjoyable as when it first comes out of the oven!

Variations

1. Spicy Sriracha Bacon
   • Swap the cayenne pepper with 1–2 teaspoons of sriracha for a sweet and spicy kick with a hint of garlic.
2. Honey-Glazed Bacon
   • Replace maple syrup with honey for a floral sweetness that pairs perfectly with the brown sugar glaze.
3. Candied Pecan Bacon
   • Add finely chopped candied pecans to the brown sugar mixture for a crunchy, nutty texture.
4. Smoky Chipotle Bacon
   • Use chipotle powder instead of cayenne for a smoky, slightly spicy flavor.
5. Cinnamon-Spiced Bacon
   • Add ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the brown sugar mixture for a warm, aromatic twist.
6. Zesty Orange Maple Bacon
   • Mix 1 teaspoon of orange zest into the maple syrup before drizzling it over the bacon for a citrusy flavor boost.
7. Peppery Parmesan Bacon
   • Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese and cracked black pepper on the bacon after it bakes for a savory, cheesy variation.
8. Brown Sugar Bourbon Bacon
   • Stir 1 tablespoon of bourbon into the brown sugar mixture for a rich, boozy flavor profile.
9. Sweet and Herbaceous Bacon
   • Add a pinch of dried rosemary or thyme to the glaze for a sweet and savory combination.
10. Dark Chocolate Bacon
    • After baking and cooling, drizzle the bacon with melted dark chocolate and let it set for a unique sweet-and-savory treat.

These variations allow you to customize Million Dollar Bacon to match any occasion or personal preference, making it even more versatile and irresistible!

FAQs

1. Can I use regular bacon instead of thick-cut?
   • While thick-cut bacon is ideal for this recipe, you can use regular bacon. Just be sure to adjust the baking time, as thinner bacon may cook faster.
2. Can I make Million Dollar Bacon ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can prepare the bacon up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat it in the oven for a few minutes to bring it back to its crispy, caramelized texture.
3. Can I make this recipe in an air fryer?
   • Yes, you can cook Million Dollar Bacon in an air fryer. Place the bacon in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook at 375°F for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
4. What can I substitute for maple syrup?
   • You can use honey, agave nectar, or brown rice syrup as alternatives to maple syrup. Each will provide a different flavor but still create a sweet, sticky glaze.
5. How can I make this bacon spicier?
   • Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a dash of hot sauce or sriracha to the glaze for an extra punch of heat.
6. Can I add more sugar for a sweeter taste?
   • Yes, you can add an extra tablespoon or two of brown sugar if you prefer a sweeter bacon. Just be mindful that it may make the bacon a bit stickier.
7. Can I freeze Million Dollar Bacon?
   • Yes, you can freeze it! Wrap each strip individually in wax paper and store it in a freezer-safe bag. Reheat in the oven when ready to serve.
8. Can I make this recipe without the spicy pepper?
   • Absolutely! You can leave out the cayenne or black pepper if you prefer a sweet, non-spicy version of Million Dollar Bacon.
9. How can I make this bacon more savory?
   • Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or sprinkle with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme after baking for a more savory twist.
10. How long can I store Million Dollar Bacon?
    • Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 1 month.

These frequently asked questions should help guide you through any adjustments or tips for making Million Dollar Bacon just the way you like it!

Million Dollar Bacon is a must-try recipe that transforms simple ingredients into a show-stopping dish. With its caramelized glaze and perfectly crispy edges, it’s a guaranteed hit for any occasion. Treat yourself to this sweet and spicy delight and discover why it truly lives up to its name.

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