Ingredients:

  • 450 g / 1 pound Thick-Cut Bacon
  • 100 g / ½ cup Light Brown Sugar, packed
  • 5 g / 1 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper (Adjust to preferred heat level)
  • 2 g / ½ teaspoon Black Pepper, freshly ground
  • 3 g / 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
  • 30 ml / 2 tablespoons Pure Maple Syrup (or Honey, optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a large rimmed baking sheet with foil or parchment, and place a wire cooling rack on top. This elevation is critical for ensuring crispiness.
  2. In a small mixing bowl, thoroughly whisk together the brown sugar, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and smoked paprika until the mixture is uniform.
  3. If using maple syrup, lightly brush both sides of the bacon strips. Then, press each strip firmly into the sugar/spice mixture, ensuring an even, generous coating on one side.
  4. Lay the coated bacon strips onto the prepared wire rack in a single layer, ensuring the coated side faces up and strips do not overlap.
  5. Bake for 15 minutes. The fat should begin to render and the sugar should start bubbling.
  6. Carefully flip the bacon strips. If desired, lightly sprinkle any remaining rub mixture or a small drizzle of maple syrup onto the second side.
  7. Return the bacon to the oven and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the bacon is deep reddish-brown and the glaze is thick and bubbly. Watch closely during the final 5 minutes to prevent the sugar from burning.
  8. Remove the tray from the oven. Immediately transfer the bacon strips to a new piece of parchment paper to cool completely. The candied coating will harden and become crisp within 5-10 minutes.
  9. Once set, the Ultimate Sweet & Spicy Oven Bacon is ready to serve or use as a garnish.