Prepare yourself for a culinary revelation that’s about to change your snack game forever. We’re talking about Molasses Smoked Bacon Candy – a sweet, savory, smoky, and utterly addictive treat that takes humble bacon to gourmet heights. This isn’t just bacon; it’s bacon transformed into crispy, caramelized perfection, with a deep, rich sweetness from molasses and a subtle kick from smoked paprika and cayenne. If you’ve never experienced the magic of candied bacon, you’re in for a truly delightful surprise!

Why I Love This Recipe

I’m a big believer that food should excite and delight, and this Molasses Smoked Bacon Candy does exactly that. What I absolutely adore about this recipe is the incredible complexity of flavors that develop with such simple steps. The smoky, salty crispness of the bacon against the sticky, sweet glaze of molasses and brown sugar is pure alchemy. Add in the warmth of smoked paprika and a whisper of cayenne, and you’ve got something truly extraordinary. It’s fantastic as an appetizer, a garnish for salads or desserts, or simply as a secret indulgence. Once you taste it, you’ll understand why it’s impossible to stop at just one piece!

Ingredients

To make this irresistible bacon candy, you’ll need:

• 1 pound thick-cut bacon (preferably good quality, as it holds up better)
• 1/2 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
• 1/4 cup molasses (unsulphured blackstrap or regular)
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice preference)
• Pinch of salt (if your bacon isn’t very salty)

Swaps and Notes

• Bacon: Thick-cut bacon is highly recommended for this recipe as it provides a better chew and can handle the glaze without becoming brittle too quickly. Regular bacon can work, but watch it closely as it bakes faster.
• Sweetener: While brown sugar and molasses create that classic deep flavor, you can experiment with maple syrup instead of molasses for a “maple bacon candy” twist.
• Spices: Adjust the cayenne pepper to your liking; omit it for no heat, or increase for a spicier kick. Other spices like a pinch of black pepper, a dash of garlic powder, or even a touch of cinnamon can add interesting nuances.
• Flavor Boost: For an even deeper smoky flavor without an actual smoker, you can add a tiny drop of liquid smoke to the molasses mixture, but use sparingly.

Steps for the Recipe

1. Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup – this is crucial, as the glaze can get sticky! Place a wire rack on top of the foil-lined baking sheet. This allows the fat to drip away, ensuring crispier bacon candy.
2. Arrange Bacon: Lay the bacon strips in a single layer on the wire rack, ensuring they don’t overlap.
3. Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, molasses, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and a pinch of salt (only if your bacon isn’t particularly salty). Mix everything together until it forms a smooth, well-combined paste.
4. Glaze the Bacon: Using a pastry brush or the back of a spoon, evenly brush the molasses mixture onto both sides of the bacon strips. Ensure each piece is well coated.
5. First Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes.
6. Flip and Re-glaze: Carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Using tongs, carefully flip each bacon strip. If there’s any remaining molasses mixture in your bowl, brush it onto this second side of the bacon.
7. Final Bake: Return the baking sheet to the oven and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the bacon is crisp and deeply caramelized. Keep a close eye on it during the last few minutes, as it can go from perfect to burnt quickly due to the sugar.
8. Cool and Cut: Remove the baking sheet from the oven. The bacon might still seem a little soft, but it will crisp up significantly as it cools. Let it cool on the wire rack for at least 10-15 minutes before attempting to move it. Once slightly cooled, it will be easier to handle. Carefully peel the bacon strips from the rack (they will be sticky!) and cut them into bite-sized pieces if desired.
9. Serve: Enjoy your delicious Molasses Smoked Bacon Candy as a sweet and savory treat! It’s fantastic warm or at room temperature.

Tips for Success

• Foil and Rack are Essential: Don’t skip these! The foil makes cleanup a breeze, and the rack allows air circulation for crispy bacon.
• Watch Closely: Sugary glazes can burn quickly. Keep an eye on your bacon, especially during the final minutes of baking.
• Cool Before Handling: The candy will be very sticky and a bit pliable when hot. Let it cool on the rack to allow the glaze to set and the bacon to crisp.
• Even Coating: Ensure the bacon is evenly coated with the molasses mixture for consistent caramelization.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Give the bacon strips space on the rack to ensure even cooking and crisping.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Molasses Smoked Bacon Candy is incredibly versatile! It’s fantastic on its own as an irresistible snack or appetizer. You can also crumble it over:

• Salads: Adds amazing crunch and flavor to a fresh green salad with a vinaigrette.
• Desserts: Try it crumbled over vanilla ice cream, brownies, or even stirred into cookie dough (for a sweet and salty surprise!).
• Breakfast/Brunch: Serve alongside pancakes, waffles, or scrambled eggs for an elevated touch.
• Garnish: It makes a surprising and delicious garnish for savory dishes like roasted vegetables or even on top of a burger.

Storage and Leftover Tips

If by some miracle you have any Molasses Smoked Bacon Candy leftover, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. It’s best eaten within the first day or two for optimal crispness. If it softens, you can briefly crisp it up in a toaster oven or a dry skillet over low heat.

More Recipes You Will Love

If you loved this sweet and savory indulgence, you’ll find plenty more delicious treats on Chef Maniac:

• For another amazing no-bake treat that’s hard to resist, try my Edible Cookie Dough.
• If you’re a fan of rich, chocolatey desserts, these Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownie Bombs are a must-try.
• And for serious peanut butter lovers, my recipe for The Best Peanut Butter Brownies I’ve Ever Made is a winner.

Final Thoughts

Molasses Smoked Bacon Candy is a testament to the fact that sometimes, the most unexpected combinations create the most unforgettable flavors. It’s a fun, easy, and incredibly rewarding recipe that will have everyone reaching for more. Give it a try – you might just find yourself addicted to this sweet, smoky, and salty perfection!

What’s the most surprising sweet and savory combination you’ve ever loved? Share your ideas and feedback in the comments below, and don’t forget to follow us for more amazing recipes!