Prepare your taste buds for a truly unforgettable indulgence: Millionaire Bacon! This isn’t just any bacon; it’s thick-cut bacon transformed into crispy, caramelized strips, generously coated with a sweet, spicy, and savory glaze. Baked to perfection, it’s the ultimate decadent treat that’s perfect for a luxurious brunch, a show-stopping appetizer, or simply when you crave something truly extraordinary. Get ready for a flavor sensation that lives up to its name!
Why I Love This Recipe
I’m a huge fan of dishes that deliver big on bold, contrasting flavors, and Millionaire Bacon absolutely nails it! What I truly adore is the incredible interplay of crispy, salty bacon with the sweet caramelized brown sugar and a subtle kick of spice. It’s a symphony of textures and tastes that is utterly addictive and surprisingly easy to achieve. It feels incredibly gourmet and indulgent, yet it’s straightforward to prepare, making it a fantastic, fuss-free option for impressing guests or simply treating yourself to a little piece of culinary heaven. Every bite is an explosion of salty, sweet, and savory bliss!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb thick-cut bacon (about 8-12 slices, depending on thickness)
- ¼ cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Optional: ¼ tsp smoked paprika (for extra depth)
Swaps and Notes
- Bacon: Thick-cut bacon is essential for Millionaire Bacon, as it holds up better to the baking and allows for that satisfying chew. Regular bacon can be used, but cook time will be shorter, and the texture will be less substantial.
- Brown Sugar: Light brown sugar is ideal for its mild molasses flavor and ability to caramelize beautifully. You can use dark brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
- Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a crucial savory and slightly pungent note that balances the sweetness.
- Cayenne Pepper: This is key for the “spicy” element. Adjust the amount based on your preferred heat level. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Smoked Paprika (Optional): Adds a lovely smoky depth that enhances the bacon’s flavor.
- Other Spices (Optional): Some variations include a touch of garlic powder or a dash of chili powder for additional savory notes.
- Wire Rack: Baking on a wire rack allows air to circulate around the bacon, resulting in crispier bacon and better caramelization, with excess fat dripping away. Don’t skip this if you want crispy bacon!
Instructions:
1. Preheat Oven & Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil (for easy cleanup), then place an oven-safe wire rack on top of the foil-lined sheet.
2. Prepare the Bacon: Lay the thick-cut bacon slices in a single layer on the wire rack, making sure they don’t overlap.
3. Season the Bacon: In a small bowl, combine the ¼ cup packed light brown sugar, 1 teaspoon black pepper, and ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (if using). If desired, add the optional ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika. Stir everything together until well mixed. Generously sprinkle this brown sugar mixture evenly over one side of the bacon slices. Press it gently onto the bacon to help it adhere.
4. Bake to Crispy Perfection: Place the baking sheet with the bacon in the preheated oven. Bake for 15 minutes. After 15 minutes, carefully flip each bacon slice. Sprinkle the remaining brown sugar mixture evenly over the second side, pressing it gently. Return the baking sheet to the oven and continue baking for another 15-25 minutes, or until the bacon is deeply caramelized, crispy, and cooked to your desired doneness. The exact baking time will depend on the thickness of your bacon and your oven. Keep a close eye on it, especially towards the end, as the sugar can burn quickly!
5. Cool & Serve: Once baked, immediately remove the Millionaire Bacon from the oven. Transfer the bacon slices from the wire rack to a clean plate or a sheet of parchment paper to cool completely. As it cools, the caramelized sugar will harden and become deliciously crisp. Serve cooled and enjoy your utterly addictive Millionaire Bacon!
Tips for Success
- Thick-Cut Bacon: This is non-negotiable for the best texture and to prevent it from burning before it’s properly caramelized.
- Wire Rack: Essential for crispy, evenly cooked bacon. It allows the fat to drip away and air to circulate.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Lay bacon in a single layer with space between slices for even baking.
- Watch Closely: Bacon and sugar can go from perfectly done to burnt very quickly. Stay near the oven, especially during the last 10 minutes.
- Cool Completely: Allow the bacon to cool completely on a flat surface. This is when the sugar coating becomes hard and crispy.
- Adjust Sweetness/Spice: Feel free to adjust the amount of brown sugar and cayenne pepper to suit your personal preference.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Millionaire Bacon is a versatile and incredibly delicious treat, perfect for adding a touch of indulgence to any meal or occasion.
- Brunch Staple: Serve alongside pancakes, waffles, or eggs for a decadent brunch. It would be amazing with a classic American Breakfast spread.
- Appetizer: Serve as a unique and irresistible appetizer at parties or gatherings.
- Snack: A fantastic, satisfying snack on its own.
- Garnish: Crumble over salads, baked potatoes, or even desserts like ice cream for a sweet and savory crunch.
- Sandwich/Burger Addition: Add a slice or two to your favorite burger or sandwich for an elevated flavor.
- Drinks: Pairs well with coffee, a mimosa, or a crisp beer.
- For other impressive bacon or cheesy appetizers, explore these Chefmaniac.com favorites:
- This Crockpot Nacho Dip Is the Reason I Never Have Leftovers
- How I Turned a Classic Sandwich into the Ultimate Cheesy Hot Dip
- Bacon-Wrapped Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders (for another sweet & savory bacon-wrapped delight!)
- Easy Cheesy Chicken Sliders with Marinara Garlic Butter
- Philly Cheesesteak Casserole
Storage and Leftover Tips
Millionaire Bacon is best enjoyed fresh and crispy, but it can be stored.
- Room Temperature (Short Term): Once completely cooled and hardened, Millionaire Bacon can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. However, it can lose some crispness if exposed to humidity.
- Refrigeration (Recommended): For longer freshness and to maintain crispness, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Reheating: To re-crisp, place on a wire rack on a baking sheet and bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes, or use an air fryer until desired crispness is achieved.
- Freezing: You can freeze Millionaire Bacon. Once completely cooled, place slices in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper. Freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat from frozen in a low oven or air fryer.
Final Thoughts
This Millionaire Bacon is a truly decadent, sweet, spicy, and utterly addictive treat that lives up to its luxurious name. It’s simple to make, incredibly flavorful, and perfect for elevating any meal or gathering. Get ready to indulge in this crispy, candied delight and savor every exquisite bite!
What are your favorite ways to use bacon in sweet and savory dishes, or do you have a secret ingredient that makes your candied bacon extra special? Share your insights and feedback in the comments below, and don’t forget to follow Chefmaniac for more exciting and delicious recipes!
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