If you’re searching for the best candied bacon recipe with a spicy Cajun twist, then my Candied Cajun Bacon is exactly what you need. To begin with, thick-cut bacon is coated in a rich layer of brown sugar, and then it’s paired with bold Cajun seasoning for the perfect kick. As it bakes, the bacon slowly transforms, becoming irresistibly crispy and beautifully caramelized. As a result, you get a perfect combination of sweet, smoky, and savory heat in every bite. Because the flavors balance so well, this easy candied bacon recipe shines whether you’re serving it at brunch, adding it as a holiday appetizer, or sharing it on game day. Ultimately, it’s the kind of recipe that takes ordinary bacon and elevates it into something truly unforgettable.
The beauty of this spicy candied bacon recipe is how versatile it is. Crumble it over salads for a smoky crunch, layer it on burgers and sandwiches, or pair it with desserts like ice cream, cobblers, or cheesecake for a mouthwatering sweet-and-savory bite. You can even package it up as a fun homemade food gift for friends and family. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, this Cajun candied bacon is a quick way to elevate any meal or occasion. Once you try it, you’ll never look at bacon the same way again!
This candied bacon is delicious on top of my Brown Butter Bourbon Peach Cobbler!
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Ingredients
- Bacon
- Brown Sugar
- Paprika
- Cayenne
- Garlic Powder
- Dried Oregano
- Thyme
- Smoked Paprika
- Salt
- Pepper
See recipe card for quantities.
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together all the dry seasonings until well combined. Set aside
3. Arrange the bacon strips in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet
4. Bake for 4 minutes, then remove from the oven
5. Sprinkle half of the seasoning mixture evenly over the bacon. Return to the oven and bake for another 5 minutes
6. Carefully remove from the oven, use tongs to flip the bacon, and sprinkle with the remaining seasoning. Return to the oven
7. Continue baking until the bacon reaches your desired level of crispiness, about 4–6 more minutes.
8. Transfer bacon to a wire cooling rack to crisp up and cool
9. Once cooled, chop bacon into bite-sized pieces or crumble as desired
10. Serve immediately and enjoy this flavor-packed seasoned bacon on its own, in salads, or as a topping for your favorite recipes!
Hint: The bacon will keep crisping as it cools on the wire rack after being removed from the oven, creating perfectly crunchy bacon pieces.
Substitutions
If you prefer a pork-free option, there are many delicious bacon alternatives available, such as turkey bacon, beef bacon, or plant-based varieties. Most cook best at 400°F—just like traditional pork bacon in this recipe—but be sure to watch closely, as cooking times may vary depending on the type of bacon substitute you choose.
Equipment
Large baking sheet with wire rack
Spoon
Storage
Freshly cooked candied bacon can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week in an airtight container. To maximize crispiness, it's best to let the bacon cool completely to room temperature before storing to avoid condensation, according to Yahoo. You can also freeze candied bacon for longer storage, up to several months, by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil or using a vacuum sealer.
FAQ
Candied bacon, also known as million dollar bacon, pig candy, or millionaire's bacon, is a dish made by coating thick-cut bacon in a brown sugar and spice mixture (often including black pepper and cayenne pepper) and baking it until crispy and caramelized.
Thick-cut bacon is generally recommended as it holds up well to the sweet coating and provides a good balance of flavors and textures. Regular sliced bacon can also be used, but thin bacon may burn too quickly. Some chefs prefer thick-cut bacon for a meatier and chewier texture that pairs well with the candied coating, while others prefer regular cut for a crispier result.
Common spices include black pepper and cayenne pepper for a sweet and spicy kick. Other options include smoked paprika, or a prepared BBQ rub for more complex flavor notes.
Pairing
These are my favorite dishes to serve with Cajun Candied Bacon:
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Cajun Candied Bacon
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together all the dry seasonings until well combined. Set aside.
- Arrange the bacon strips in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 4 minutes, then remove from the oven.
- Sprinkle half of the seasoning mixture evenly over the bacon. Return to the oven and bake for another 5 minutes.
- Carefully remove from the oven, use tongs to flip the bacon, and sprinkle with the remaining seasoning. Return to the oven.
- Continue baking until the bacon reaches your desired level of crispiness, about 4–6 more minutes.
- Transfer bacon to a wire cooling rack to crisp up and cool.
- Once cooled, chop bacon into bite-sized pieces or crumble as desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy this flavor-packed seasoned bacon on its own, in salads, or as a topping for your favorite recipes!
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