Maple Bacon Recipe: How to Candy Bacon like a Pro

Before we dive in, this is one of those recipes that I'm ashamed we haven't included on the website before now, and I humbly apologize. If you’ve never tried candied bacon, I urge you to arrange your plans to reconcile your lapse as soon as possible. This irresistible combination of crispy bacon coated in caramelized maple syrup creates a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and smoky flavors. Whether you enjoy it as a snack, on a sandwich, or for breakfast, this easy candied bacon recipe is simple yet indulgent.

As you know if you've been here before, we love exploring different ways to use our farm's pure Vermont maple syrup in all sorts of creative dishes, and this recipe is now one of our favorites. The natural sweetness of maple syrup enhances the bacon’s savory richness, making it a step above candied bacon recipes that rely on processed sugar. Plus, maple syrup brings depth and complexity to every bite, complementing the smoky notes of the thick-cut bacon. However, I want to be clear, this recipe shouldn't be placed in the rotation if you're watching your diet, but it is delicious and worthy of a "cheat" meal when needed.

In this guide, we share everything you need to know about making maple-candied bacon—what it is, how to cook it, the best types of bacon to use, and some flavor variations to try. 

What is Candied Bacon?

Candied bacon is exactly what it sounds like—crispy, smoky, million-dollar bacon slices coated in a caramelized layer of sweetness. It’s the perfect marriage of savory and sweet, with a crunch that makes it irresistible—quite literally, "melt in your mouth."

A Brief History and Origins

After some research, the exact origins of candied bacon are unknown. The concept of candying foods dates back thousands of years to Romans and Egyptians caramelizing honey on nuts and fruits. However, I'm sure that Stone Age humankind surely must have been munching on honeycomb as a cheat meal, which I might add is a snack that still holds up today. Given bacon’s long-standing popularity, it’s likely that candied bacon has been invented, forgotten, and reinvented multiple times in kitchens around the world.

In modern times, candied bacon has become a staple in brunch menus, gourmet burger toppings, and even artisanal snack foods. The combination of crispy, salty thick sliced bacon and a glossy, caramelized glaze has made it a go-to indulgence for home cooks and chefs alike. This recipe takes the term, "pig candy" to another level.

The Appeal of Sweet and Savory Combinations

Sweet and salty flavors have long been a winning duo in the culinary world. The contrast between the rich, fatty savory qualities of bacon and the deep sweetness of a caramelized glaze creates an addictive balance. Our brain has pathways hardwired to our taste buds that trigger a dopamine release that gives a sensation of pleasure. These triggers are activated by foods with high levels of sugar and fat, which, spoiler alert, candied bacon is high in both of these attributes. This is why candied bacon pairs so well with everything from pancakes and waffles to cheeseboards and Bloody Mary cocktails—it satisfies and enhances multiple taste cravings simultaneously.

How Maple Syrup Enhances Traditional Candied Bacon

Many candied bacon recipes use brown sugar as a sweetener, but in my opinion, maple syrup is the way to go. Unlike brown sugar, which provides a straightforward sweetness, maple syrup adds a delicate, nuanced flavor with subtle caramel, vanilla, and even woody notes. Additionally, you can choose to use different grades of maple syrup to achieve the flavor profile of your choosing. The natural complexity of pure maple syrup enhances the smoky saltiness of the bacon without overpowering it.

Additionally, I found that using maple syrup combined with maple sugar also allows for a smoother, more even coating on the bacon as it caramelizes in the oven, resulting in a beautiful glossy finish and a crisp, yet chewy texture. It’s an upgrade that brings out the best in both the bacon and the candying process.

Ingredients & What You'll Need

The Ingredients

To make the perfect batch of maple candied bacon, you’ll need a balance of sweet, savory, and spicy elements. Here’s what goes into our recipe, but feel free to tweak it however you see fit:

• 1 lb. bacon, cut to 3/8” thick – Thick-cut for the best texture

• ¼ cup maple sugar – Adds an extra punch of maple sweetness and enhances caramelization

• ¼ cup maple syrup – The key to a smooth, glossy glaze with deep flavor

• 1 tsp dry mustard – Brings a subtle tang that balances the sweetness

• 1 tsp Korean pepper flakes – A mild heat that adds depth without overpowering

• 2 tsp black pepper – Enhances the savory notes and complements the whole

Choosing the Best Bacon for Candied Bacon

Not all bacon is created equal, and when making candied bacon, the thickness of the slices makes a huge difference. I have a long-standing complaint with supermarket brands labeling their bacon as “thick-cut” when it should be labeled as "standard-cut" thickness. Then what's considered regular sliced bacon should be designated "thin-cut", which has its place in the rotation for dishes such as jalapeno poppers and bacon-wrapped scallops. For this recipe, a true "thick-cut" at 3/8-inch thick is best—it holds up well to the caramelization process, stays chewy yet crisp, and doesn’t become brittle.

To get the right cut, I went to Bob’s Meat Market, where the owner Bob Provasi sliced it fresh to my specifications. If you have a local butcher, I highly recommend visiting them for thick-cut bacon rather than relying on pre-packaged supermarket options.

Additionally, avoid flavored or pre-seasoned bacon for this recipe. While maple-flavored bacon might sound appealing, it comes with added preservatives and artificial flavors. The goal is to let the natural flavors of high-quality bacon and real Vermont maple syrup shine.

Choosing the Best Maple Syrup for the Job

The grade of maple syrup you choose will influence the final flavor, and while you can’t go wrong with any pure maple syrup, understanding the differences helps you tailor the recipe to your preference:

• Golden Delicate Taste – Buttery and mild, perfect if you want a lighter sweetness that doesn’t overpower the bacon.

• Amber Rich Taste – A middle ground, offering a balanced maple flavor with crème brûlée notes.

• Dark Robust Taste – Stronger maple presence with deep, almost butterscotch-like richness.

• End of Season/Baking Syrup – The boldest option, with hints of toffee and coffee, creating an intense, caramelized finish.

No matter which you choose, pure maple syrup is essential—avoid pancake syrups or corn syrup substitutes. The real stuff caramelizes beautifully, giving the bacon a glossy, candy-like coating without an artificial aftertaste.

Maple Syrup and Maple Sugar Mixture

You'll notice in our ingredients list that we include maple sugar as well as maple syrup, this is because most maple candied bacon recipes call for making a brown sugar mixture with your maple syrup to help it stick and reduce the moisture content. We thought that rather than diluting the qualities of the maple syrup with processed sugar, why not use maple sugar instead? After all, maple sugar is just maple syrup that has been cooked until the moisture is completely removed, with no additives. 

Step-by-Step: How to Make Maple Candied Bacon

We have to keep our eye on the prize, making maple candied bacon is all about achieving the perfect balance of crispy texture and caramelized sweetness. Follow these steps to ensure the best results.

Step 1: Prepping the Bacon

Before you start, choose a true thick-cut bacon (ideally 3/8-inch thick) to ensure the best texture. If your bacon slices have excess moisture, pat them dry with paper towels—this helps the maple glaze adhere properly and promotes even caramelization.

Next, set up your baking sheet:

• Use a raised mesh grating or wire rack on top of a parchment-lined baking sheet. This allows heat to circulate around the bacon, helping it cook evenly while letting excess fat drip away. I neglected to use parchment paper and I paid the price during clean-up.

Step 2: Preparing the Maple Marinade & Coating the Bacon

1. Sift the maple sugar to remove any large chunks. This ensures an even distribution in the marinade and prevents clumping.

2. In a small bowl, combine the maple sugar, dry mustard, and maple syrup until the sugar is fully hydrated and forms a smooth marinade.

3. Lay the bacon flat on the rack and spread half of the maple marinade evenly across the top side of each slice.

4. Sprinkle freshly cracked black pepper and Korean pepper flakes to taste. The heat from the pepper balances the sweetness beautifully. I prefer Gochugaru or Korean pepper flakes to red pepper flakes as I feel they are less one-dimensional and bring more character to your cooking.

Step 3: Baking the Bacon

Oven Method (Recommended for Best Results)

1. Bake at 400°F for 35 minutes, allowing the first side to caramelize and get crispy.

2. Carefully flip each slice using tongs—the bacon will be hot and slightly sticky from the maple coating.

3. Apply the remaining maple marinade to the other side and season again with black pepper and Korean pepper flakes to taste.

4. Return to the oven and bake for another 20 minutes, or until the bacon reaches your preferred level of crispness.

Why Bake Instead of Fry?

• Baking ensures even heat distribution, allowing the maple glaze to caramelize without burning quickly.

• The elevated rack allows fat to drip off, preventing grease pooling and soggy bacon.

• Frying in a pan can lead to uneven caramelization and more risk of burning due to direct contact with heat.

Step 4: The Caramelization Process – What to Watch For

• Check the bacon frequently in the last 10 minutes of baking—sugars can go from caramelized to burned quickly.

• Look for a deep amber, glossy finish—this indicates the maple sugars have properly caramelized.

• If bacon appears too dark on the edges but isn’t crisp enough, lower the oven temperature slightly and extend baking time by a few minutes.

Step 5: Cooling & Achieving the Perfect Crunch

Once removed from the oven:

• Let the bacon rest for at least 10 minutes before handling. This allows the glaze to set and crisp up further.

• If you want extra crispiness, transfer the bacon to a cooling rack instead of letting it sit directly on the baking sheet if you didn't bake on the rack as I did.

Common Questions Answered

How Long Does Candied Bacon Last?

I've yet to make any that survives its first contact with human beings. However, If stored properly, it can last up to a week in the refrigerator. If you're making this for a party or a specific meal this is a perfect item to make ahead as it reheats nicely.

How Do You Store Candied Bacon?

To keep maple candied bacon fresh and ready for use:

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. It will stay good for about 5-7 days.

• Room Temperature (Short Term): If serving the same day, you can leave it at room temperature for a few hours, but refrigerating is best for longer storage.

Can You Freeze Candied Bacon?

Yes! Freezing candied bacon is a great way to make a large batch in advance. To freeze:

1. Let the bacon cool completely.

2. Place slices in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for about 1 hour to prevent sticking.

3. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container, layering parchment paper between slices.

4. Store for up to 2 months.

To thaw, place the bacon in the refrigerator overnight or reheat directly from frozen (see next question).

How Do You Reheat Candied Bacon?

To restore the crisp texture, reheat the bacon using one of these methods:

• Oven (Best Method): Preheat to 350°F and bake for 5-7 minutes on a wire rack over a baking sheet.

• Air Fryer: Heat at 350°F for 3-5 minutes until crisp.

• Stovetop: Warm in a dry skillet over medium-low heat, flipping occasionally.

• Microwave (Quickest Method): Place on a paper towel-lined plate and heat in 10-second intervals until warm, This is surprisingly a good option to reheat bacon as it doesn't reduce the crispiness. As I understand it, this has to do with the fat content and how it efficiently heats up compared to water.

Final Thoughts & Serving Ideas

I have to admit, this has been one of my favorite recipes to make, and again, it's a shame I haven't blogged about it until now. I'd like to leave you with this, candied bacon is more than just a delicious treat—it’s a versatile ingredient that can elevate both sweet and savory dishes. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, incorporating it into a meal, or using it as a garnish, its rich, smoky-sweet flavor is a winner.

Favorite Pairings for Maple Candied Bacon

If you’re wondering how to serve your candied bacon, here are some of our favorite ways to enjoy it:

• Breakfast Favorites: Serve alongside pancakes, waffles, or French toast, letting the syrupy glaze complement the flavors. Try crumbling it over oatmeal or yogurt for a sweet-savory crunch.

• Burgers & Sandwiches: Swap out regular bacon for candied bacon on a burger, BLT, or breakfast sandwich for an extra layer of flavor.

• Salads: Crumble it over a spinach salad with goat cheese and apples, or mix it into a brussels sprouts salad for a sweet-savory twist. This might make you feel less guilty about it!

• Cocktail Garnish: A slice of maple candied bacon makes an unforgettable garnish for Bloody Marys, an Old Fashioned, or any maple bourbon cocktails.

• Charcuterie Boards: Pair it with cheeses, nuts, and dried fruit for a unique addition.

• Desserts: Chop and sprinkle over chocolate brownies or even maple ice cream..

Get Creative with Maple Candied Bacon

Don’t be afraid to experiment! Some other fun ways to enjoy maple candied bacon include:

• Bacon-wrapped scallops with a maple glaze for a quick appetizer

• Chopped and baked into cornbread for a subtle smoky sweetness

• Used as a topping for maple-glazed doughnuts

Try It & Share Your Results!

We’d love to see how you use this candied bacon recipe in your kitchen! Share your creations with us on social media using #realmaple4realpeople, or leave a comment below.

If you’re looking for more ways to cook with pure Vermont maple syrup, be sure to check out our other maple-inspired recipes for delicious ideas.