Candied Bacon Twists Leave me a comment and let me know what you think ! Full recipe on
Candied Bacon Twists 👀 Leave me a comment and let me know what you think ! Full recipe on is a easy American recipe that serves 4. 250 calories per serving. Recipe by cookingintheyard on YouTube.
Prep: 20 min | Cook: 2 hrs | Total: 2 hrs 30 min
Cost: $12.08 total, $3.02 per serving
Ingredients
- 1 lb Bacon Strips (thick-cut works best; cut into 2‑inch pieces for easier twisting)
- 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar (can substitute brown sugar for deeper flavor)
- 1 tbsp Seasoning Mix (any favorite spice blend – e.g., salt, black pepper, paprika, cayenne)
Instructions
Make the Sweet Coating
In a mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar and seasoning mix. Stir until evenly blended.
Time: PT5M
Coat the Bacon
Take 2‑3 strips of bacon at a time, press them into the sugar‑seasoning mixture, turning to coat all sides. Place the coated strips on a flat plate or back in the bowl.
Time: PT5M
Twist the Bacon
Lay the coated bacon strips flat, then twist each strip into a tight spiral.
Time: PT5M
Skewer the Spirals
Insert a water‑soaked wooden skewer through the top of the spiral, then rotate the bacon around the skewer and push the skewer through the bottom to secure a beautiful spiral pattern.
Time: PT5M
Arrange on Wire Rack
Place each skewered bacon twist on a wire rack, leaving space between them for even smoke circulation.
Time: PT2M
Smoke the Bacon
Preheat the Masterbuilt smoker to 225°F (107°C). Add wood chips if desired, then smoke the bacon twists for about 2 hours, or until the sugar is caramelized and the bacon is crisp.
Time: PT2H
Temperature: 225°F
Cool and Serve
Remove the bacon twists from the smoker, let them cool on the rack for a few minutes until the glaze sets, then serve warm or at room temperature.
Time: PT5M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 250
- Protein
- 12 g
- Carbohydrates
- 15 g
- Fat
- 18 g
- Fiber
- 0 g
Dietary info: Contains pork, Gluten‑free (if seasoning mix is gluten‑free)
Allergens: Pork, Sugar
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Bacon Strips: Turkey bacon, Pork belly strips
- Instead of Granulated Sugar: Brown sugar, Coconut sugar
- Instead of Seasoning Mix: Old Bay seasoning, Cajun seasoning
Equipment Needed
- Mixing Bowl
- Wooden Skewers
- Wire Rack
- Masterbuilt Smoker (or any smoker/grill)
- Tongs
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Coating the bacon evenly with sugar and seasoning
- Twisting and securing the bacon on a skewer
- Smoking at the correct temperature and time
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use thick‑cut bacon for a meatier bite and better structural integrity.
- Add a pinch of cayenne to the seasoning mix for a subtle heat.
- For extra smoky flavor, use applewood or hickory chips.
Troubleshooting
Sugar coating falls off during smoking.
Press the sugar mixture firmly onto the bacon and let the coated strips sit for a few minutes before twisting; this helps the glaze adhere.
Bacon twists are uneven or fall apart.
Make sure the skewer is centered and goes through both the top and bottom of the spiral; tighten gently but do not over‑compress.
The glaze burns before the bacon is crisp.
Lower the smoker temperature to 200°F and add a water pan to increase humidity.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze individually wrapped for up to 2 months; reheat in oven.
Room temperature: Best eaten the same day; can sit out for up to 2 hours.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Coat and twist the bacon up to 24 hours ahead; keep refrigerated on a rack and smoke when ready.
- Soak skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before use to prevent burning.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of candied bacon twists in American cuisine?
Candied bacon became popular in the United States as a sweet‑savory snack during the rise of barbecue culture and food‑truck festivals. The twist adds visual appeal and makes the bacon easy to eat as finger food, often served at parties and game‑day gatherings.
What are the traditional regional variations of sweet bacon in the United States?
In the South, bacon is often glazed with maple syrup or brown sugar and smoked over hickory. In the Midwest, a simple sugar‑and‑pepper coating is common. Some West Coast versions incorporate chili powder or sriracha for a spicy kick.
How is candied bacon traditionally served in American barbecues?
It is typically served on a platter as a bite‑size appetizer, sometimes on a stick or skewer, allowing guests to grab a piece without utensils. It pairs well with cold beers and other smoked meats.
What occasions or celebrations is candied bacon twist traditionally associated with in American culture?
Candied bacon twists are popular at Super Bowl parties, Fourth of July cookouts, backyard barbecues, and holiday gatherings where sweet‑savory snacks are welcomed.
What other American dishes pair well with candied bacon twists?
They complement classic sides like coleslaw, baked beans, corn on the cob, and creamy dips such as ranch or blue‑cheese dressing. A crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the sweetness.
What are the authentic traditional ingredients for candied bacon twist versus acceptable substitutes?
Traditionally the recipe uses thick‑cut pork bacon, granulated or brown sugar, and a simple seasoning blend of salt and pepper. Substitutes include turkey bacon, brown sugar, maple syrup, or alternative spice mixes, though the flavor profile will shift slightly.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making candied bacon twists?
Common errors include coating too many strips at once (which makes a mess), not pressing the sugar mixture firmly enough, and smoking at too high a temperature which can burn the glaze before the bacon crisps.
Why does this candied bacon twist recipe use a smoker instead of an oven?
A smoker infuses the bacon with a deep, wood‑smoked flavor that an oven cannot replicate, and the low, indirect heat gently caramelizes the sugar without scorching, resulting in a tender‑inside, crisp‑outside texture.
Can I make candied bacon twists ahead of time and how should I store them?
Yes, you can coat, twist, and skewer the bacon up to a day in advance; keep them refrigerated on a rack. Smoke them when ready, then store cooled twists in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
What texture and appearance should I look for when the candied bacon twists are done?
The glaze should be a deep amber color with a glossy finish, and the bacon should be crisp on the outside while still slightly chewy inside. The spiral should hold its shape without sagging.
What does the YouTube channel cookingintheyard specialize in?
The YouTube channel cookingintheyard focuses on straightforward, outdoor‑cooking recipes, especially grilling, smoking, and backyard-friendly dishes that use simple ingredients and minimal equipment.
How does the YouTube channel cookingintheyard's approach to American barbecue differ from other cooking channels?
Cookingintheyard emphasizes practical, step‑by‑step tutorials that prioritize ease of execution for home cooks, often using everyday kitchen tools and offering tips for avoiding common pitfalls, whereas many other channels showcase more elaborate or equipment‑heavy techniques.
Last updated: August 30, 2026
