Sweet & Spicy Pecan-Studded Bacon Bliss
Elevate your breakfast experience with this indulgent recipe for Sweet & Spicy Pecan-Studded Bacon Bliss. Each slice of thick-cut bacon is transformed into a flavor-packed treat, enhanced by a perfect balance of sweetness from brown sugar, a kick of heat from chili powder, and a delightful crunch from finely chopped pecans. This dish is not just a side; it's a star on your breakfast table, ideal for brunch gatherings or as a stand-alone snack. Experiment with different chili powders like ancho or chipotle for varying levels of heat and flavor. Your taste buds are in for a delightful journey!
6
Servings
120
Calories
4
Ingredients
Ingredients
thick-sliced bacon
1 lb (about 12 to 15 slices)
finely chopped pecans
1/4 cup (n/a)
brown sugar
3 tablespoons (n/a)
chili powder
1 3/4 teaspoons (n/a)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and chili powder, mixing well to create a flavorful seasoning blend.
3
Prepare two large rimmed baking sheets (approximately 15 x 10 inches) by lining them with aluminum foil for easier cleanup.
4
Lay the bacon slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheets, making sure they do not overlap.
5
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake the bacon for about 10 minutes, allowing the fat to render.
6
Carefully remove the bacon from the oven and drain off excess fat, taking care to avoid burns.
7
Generously sprinkle the brown sugar and chili powder mixture over each bacon slice, followed by an even distribution of the chopped pecans.
8
Return the baking sheets to the oven and bake for an additional 8 to 10 minutes, or until the bacon is perfectly crisp.
9
Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a stack of paper towels to drain any remaining fat and allow it to crisp up further before serving.
Nutrition Information
9.3g
Fat
5g
Carbs
4g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sweet & Spicy Pecan-Studded Bacon Bliss?
It is an indulgent breakfast dish featuring thick-cut bacon coated in a blend of brown sugar, chili powder, and finely chopped pecans for a sweet, spicy, and crunchy finish.
What ingredients are needed for this recipe?
You will need 1 lb of thick-sliced bacon, 1/4 cup of finely chopped pecans, 3 tablespoons of brown sugar, and 1 3/4 teaspoons of chili powder.
What is the recommended oven temperature?
Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit or 220 degrees Celsius for optimal results.
How long does it take to cook the bacon?
The total baking time is approximately 18 to 20 minutes, split into two stages of 10 minutes and 8 to 10 minutes respectively.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes approximately 6 servings.
Can I use a different type of chili powder?
Yes, you can experiment with ancho or chipotle chili powders to adjust the heat level and flavor profile.
Is this recipe considered easy?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy recipe and involves simple steps like mixing, sprinkling, and baking.
How should I prepare the baking sheets?
Line two large rimmed baking sheets (15 x 10 inches) with aluminum foil for easier cleanup and to prevent sticking.
Why do I need to drain the fat halfway through cooking?
Draining the excess fat after the first 10 minutes allows the sugar and pecan topping to adhere better and helps the bacon become perfectly crisp.
When should I add the pecans and sugar mixture?
Add the mixture after the bacon has baked for 10 minutes and you have drained the excess fat.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 120 calories.
What is the fat content per serving?
Each serving has 9.3 grams of fat.
How many carbohydrates are in this bacon dish?
There are 5 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
How much protein is in a serving?
Each serving provides 4 grams of protein.
Can this be served as a snack?
Yes, it is excellent as a stand-alone snack or as a star side dish for breakfast and brunch.
What type of bacon is best for this recipe?
Thick-sliced bacon is recommended to support the weight of the pecans and provide a satisfying texture.
How should I store leftover bacon?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat briefly in the oven to maintain crispness.
Can I use walnuts instead of pecans?
Yes, finely chopped walnuts can be used as a substitute if you prefer their flavor or have them on hand.
Is there a specific way to drain the bacon after it finishes cooking?
Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a stack of paper towels to drain any remaining fat and let it crisp up further.
Can I make this recipe for a large brunch gathering?
Absolutely, the recipe is ideal for brunch and can be scaled up by using more baking sheets.
Does the bacon need to be flipped during cooking?
The instructions do not require flipping; you simply drain the fat and add the toppings to the top side.
Can I use light brown sugar?
Yes, both light and dark brown sugar work well for creating the sweet glaze.
How many slices of bacon are typically in a pound?
For thick-sliced bacon, there are usually about 12 to 15 slices per pound.
Can I omit the chili powder if I don't like heat?
Yes, you can omit it, though it provides a nice balance to the sweetness of the sugar.
Should the pecans be raw or roasted?
Raw finely chopped pecans are best as they will toast perfectly while baking on top of the bacon.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The ingredients listed (bacon, pecans, sugar, chili powder) are naturally gluten-free, but always check your specific brand labels.
Can I use maple syrup instead of brown sugar?
Maple syrup can be used, but the texture will be different; the brown sugar helps create a thicker, more stable crust for the pecans.
What size should the pecan pieces be?
They should be finely chopped so they stay attached to the bacon slices easily.
How do I avoid burning the pecans?
Ensure you only add the pecans for the final 8 to 10 minutes of baking and monitor the oven closely.
What can I serve with this bacon?
It pairs beautifully with eggs, pancakes, waffles, or even as a garnish for a Bloody Mary.