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Close-up of crisp edges and caramelized sugar bubbling on baked bacon.

Candy Bacon

This sweet, spicy, smoky bacon is totally addictive—and earns its nickname for a reason. Perfect as a brunch topping, a cocktail garnish, or an irresistible snack all on its own.
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Course Breakfast
Cuisine American
Servings 12

Equipment

  • 1 Sheet Tray with wire rack

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb thick-cut bacon
  • ½ cup cup brown sugar
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp ancho chile powder
  • 1 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 1 tsp black pepper, coarse ground

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 350°. Line a sheet pan with foil for easy cleanup and place a wire rack on top—this allows air to circulate and the bacon to crisp evenly.
  • In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, smoked paprika, ancho chile powder, and red pepper flakes.
  • Dredge the bacon strips through the spice mix and gently pressing it into the surface. Place on the wire rack in a single layer.
  • Bake for 45 minutes, or until the bacon is crisp and caramelized. Keep an eye on it near the end—it can go from perfect to burned quickly.
  • Let the bacon cool on the rack for at least 10 minutes. It will firm up as it cools and become perfectly crunchy.