Sweet and Savory Candied Bacon
This Sweet and Savory Candied Bacon recipe takes traditional oven-cooked bacon to new heights with a delightful mixture of brown sugar and ground cumin. The result is a deliciously crispy treat that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors. It’s an irresistible addition to any breakfast, brunch, or served atop your favorite sandwich, especially a classic BLT. This mouthwatering recipe is inspired by the renowned Loveless Cafe in Nashville, Tennessee, known for its delicious Southern-style cooking.
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
3
Ingredients
Ingredients
Light Brown Sugar
1/3 cup (packed)
Ground Cumin
1/2 teaspoon (ground)
Bacon
8 slices (thick-cut preferred)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2
In a mixing bowl, combine the light brown sugar and ground cumin. Stir until well blended.
3
Dredge each slice of bacon in the brown sugar mixture, ensuring both sides are evenly coated. Shake off any excess sugar.
4
Arrange the coated bacon slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure the slices do not overlap for even cooking.
5
Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the bacon reaches your desired crispiness. Thicker bacon may require a few additional minutes.
6
Once done, remove the bacon from the oven and transfer the slices to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sweet and Savory Candied Bacon?
It is a crispy treat made by oven-cooking bacon coated in a mixture of light brown sugar and ground cumin.
What ingredients are needed for this recipe?
You will need light brown sugar, ground cumin, and 8 slices of bacon.
What type of sugar should I use?
The recipe calls for 1/3 cup of packed light brown sugar.
What spice gives this bacon its savory flavor?
Ground cumin is used to provide the savory component of the flavor profile.
What kind of bacon is recommended?
Thick-cut bacon is preferred for the best results in this recipe.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
How long does it take to bake the bacon?
Baking typically takes 15 to 20 minutes, or until your desired crispiness is reached.
Does thick-cut bacon take longer to cook?
Yes, thicker bacon may require a few additional minutes beyond the standard 20 minutes.
How do I prepare the baking sheet?
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup.
How do I coat the bacon in the sugar mixture?
Dredge each slice of bacon in the mixture, ensuring both sides are evenly coated.
Should I remove excess sugar from the bacon?
Yes, you should shake off any excess sugar after dredging the slices.
How should the bacon be arranged on the pan?
Arrange the slices in a single layer and make sure they do not overlap.
What should I do after the bacon is finished baking?
Transfer the slices to a paper towel-lined plate to drain off any excess grease.
Should I let the candied bacon cool?
Yes, allow the bacon to cool slightly before serving so the candied coating can set.
Where did the inspiration for this recipe come from?
This recipe is inspired by the Southern-style cooking at the Loveless Cafe in Nashville, Tennessee.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes approximately 4 servings.
Is this recipe considered a quick recipe?
Yes, it falls under the '< 30 Mins' category for preparation and cooking.
What are some serving suggestions for candied bacon?
It is great for breakfast, brunch, or as a topping for a classic BLT sandwich.
Is this bacon spicy?
No, the cumin provides a warm, savory earthiness rather than heat.
What is the texture of the finished bacon?
The bacon becomes deliciously crispy with a slightly tacky, caramelized coating.
Can I use dark brown sugar instead of light?
Yes, dark brown sugar can be used for a deeper molasses flavor.
How many slices of bacon are used?
The recipe uses 8 slices of bacon.
Why use parchment paper?
Parchment paper prevents the sugar from sticking to the pan and makes cleanup much easier.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Bacon, brown sugar, and cumin are naturally gluten-free, but always check your specific brand labels.
Can this be served as a snack?
Yes, it is often served as a standalone savory and sweet snack.
What is the preparation for the cumin?
The cumin should be ground before mixing with the sugar.
Can I make this in an air fryer?
While the recipe specifies an oven, it can be adapted for an air fryer at a lower temperature to avoid burning the sugar.
How much cumin is required?
You will need 1/2 teaspoon of ground cumin.
Does the recipe require flipping the bacon?
The instructions do not specify flipping, as the oven heat generally cooks both sides evenly.
What makes this recipe 'Southern-style'?
Its association with the Loveless Cafe and the combination of sweet and savory common in Southern comfort foods.