Easy and Delicious Candied Bacon
Easy and Delicious Candied BACON is a easy American recipe that serves 4. 130 calories per serving. Recipe by Grillin With Dad on YouTube.
Prep: 9 min | Cook: 32 min | Total: 51 min
Cost: $6.40 total, $1.60 per serving
Ingredients
- 1 pound Thick‑Cut Bacon (Swift brand or any thick‑cut bacon; keep slices whole)
- 1/4 cup Brown Sugar (Lightly packed)
- 1 teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (Adjust to taste for heat)
Instructions
Make the Sweet‑Spicy Coating
In a mixing bowl combine the brown sugar and crushed red pepper flakes; stir until evenly mixed.
Time: PT2M
Prepare the Bacon
Pull the bacon out of its packaging, separate the slices, and lay them flat on a clean surface.
Time: PT3M
Coat the Bacon
Press each bacon slice into the sugar‑pepper mixture, coating both sides thoroughly. Let any excess fall back into the bowl.
Time: PT5M
Arrange on Wire Rack
Place the coated bacon strips on a wire rack set over a tray to catch drips. Ensure pieces do not overlap.
Time: PT2M
Preheat Grill for Indirect Cooking
Set up the Big Green Egg (or any grill) for indirect heat and preheat to 350°F.
Time: PT10M
Temperature: 350°F
Cook the Bacon
Place the wire rack with bacon inside the grill. Cook for 20–25 minutes, watching for the brown sugar to melt and turn a deep amber caramel. Rotate the rack halfway through for even cooking.
Time: PT22M
Temperature: 350°F
Rest and Serve
Remove the bacon from the grill, transfer to a plate, and let rest for 5 minutes. The coating will set as it cools.
Time: PT5M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 130
- Protein
- 8g
- Carbohydrates
- 6g
- Fat
- 9g
- Fiber
- 0g
Dietary info: Gluten-Free, Nut-Free
Allergens: Pork
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Thick‑Cut Bacon: Thick‑cut pork belly strips
- Instead of Brown Sugar: Turbinado sugar, Coconut sugar
- Instead of Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: Paprika, Cayenne pepper (use less)
Equipment Needed
- Mixing Bowl
- Wire Rack
- Tongs
- Big Green Egg or Grill
- Measuring Spoons
- Tray or Baking Sheet (optional)
- Thermometer (optional) (optional)
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Pressing the bacon firmly into the sugar‑pepper coating ensures an even caramelized crust.
- Monitoring the bacon during the last 10 minutes prevents the sugar from burning.
Chef Tips from the Video
- Thick‑cut bacon gives the sugar time to melt without the meat drying out.
- Press the coating on both sides; the second side adds a glossy finish.
- Using a wire rack instead of laying directly on the grill grate prevents the bacon from sitting in its own fat, leading to a crisper texture.
Troubleshooting
Bacon is not caramelized enough.
Increase cooking time by 3‑5 minutes or raise the grill temperature slightly, watching closely to avoid burning.
Sugar burns and turns bitter.
Lower the grill temperature to 325°F and/or move the rack farther from the heat source. Reduce the amount of red pepper flakes if they are contributing to faster browning.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze in a single layer on a parchment sheet, then transfer to a zip‑top bag for up to 1 month.
Room temperature: Do not leave at room temperature for more than 2 hours due to the sugar coating.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Coat the bacon and refrigerate for up to 1 hour before grilling; this helps the sugar adhere better.
- Cooked candied bacon can be reheated in a 300°F oven for 5‑7 minutes to restore crispness.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance of candied bacon in American BBQ cuisine?
Candied bacon is a modern twist on classic Southern pork dishes, combining the smoky flavor of BBQ with a sweet‑spicy glaze that has become popular at backyard gatherings and sports‑watch parties across the United States.
How did sweet‑and‑spicy bacon become a staple snack in American backyard grilling traditions?
The snack emerged in the early 2000s when home cooks began experimenting with sugar‑based glazes on meats. The contrast of caramelized sugar and heat from red pepper flakes quickly made it a favorite for casual grilling events.
What regional variations of candied bacon exist within the United States?
In the Southwest, cooks often add chipotle powder for smoky heat; in the Midwest, maple syrup replaces brown sugar for a milder sweetness; while some Southern versions incorporate bourbon in the glaze.
During which occasions is candied bacon traditionally served in American culture?
Candied bacon is commonly served at tailgate parties, Fourth of July barbecues, Super Bowl gatherings, and as a sweet‑savory addition to brunch spreads.
What authentic ingredients are essential for traditional American candied bacon?
Traditional candied bacon relies on thick‑cut pork bacon, brown sugar for caramelization, and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for heat. These ingredients create the classic sweet‑spicy profile.
What other American BBQ dishes pair well with candied bacon?
Candied bacon pairs nicely with grilled corn on the cob, baked beans, coleslaw, and a cold craft beer, balancing the sweet heat with savory sides.
What makes candied bacon special compared to regular bacon in American cuisine?
The caramelized sugar crust adds a crunchy, glossy finish and a burst of sweetness that contrasts the salty, smoky meat, turning a simple breakfast staple into a snackable appetizer.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making candied bacon on a grill?
Common errors include using thin bacon (the sugar burns before the meat cooks), cooking at too high a temperature, and not monitoring the caramelization stage, which can quickly turn bitter.
Why does this candied bacon recipe use indirect cooking at 350°F instead of direct grilling?
Indirect cooking provides gentle, even heat that melts the brown sugar without scorching it, allowing the bacon to render its fat while the glaze caramelizes slowly for a perfect texture.
What does the YouTube channel Grillin With Dad specialize in?
The YouTube channel Grillin With Dad focuses on family‑friendly outdoor cooking, showcasing grill techniques, easy backyard recipes, and tips for cooking with kids and dads alike.
Last updated: August 30, 2026
