What is Bourbon Bacon and how is it made?

Bourbon Bacon is a flavorful dish where crispy bacon is coated or glazed with a mixture of bourbon whiskey and sweeteners like brown sugar or maple syrup. The bourbon adds a rich, smoky depth, balancing the salty and sweet flavors. To make it, bacon strips are brushed with the bourbon glaze and baked or cooked in a skillet until caramelized. This process creates a sticky, slightly smoky crust that elevates the classic bacon taste.

Can I cook Bourbon Bacon without alcohol?

Yes, you can make a Bourbon Bacon-inspired recipe without using actual bourbon by substituting the alcohol with non-alcoholic alternatives that mimic its flavor, such as apple cider vinegar with a splash of vanilla extract or unsweetened apple juice combined with a bit of smoked paprika. These ingredients add depth and sweetness without the alcohol content while preserving the signature taste.

How long should I cook Bourbon Bacon for the best texture?

For optimal texture, bake Bourbon Bacon in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 to 20 minutes. This timing allows the glaze to caramelize fully while the bacon crisps evenly. Keep an eye on it in the final minutes to prevent burning, as the sugar content can cause quick browning. Cooking times may vary slightly depending on bacon thickness.

What are some easy recipes that include Bourbon Bacon?

Bourbon Bacon can be incorporated in many dishes such as bourbon bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers, bourbon bacon grilled cheese sandwiches, or added as a topping to salads and burgers. Another popular option is bourbon bacon mac and cheese, where bits of the glazed bacon add a smoky-sweet crunch. Using Bourbon Bacon enhances flavor complexity in both snacks and main courses.

Is Bourbon Bacon safe to store and how should I keep it?

Yes, Bourbon Bacon can be stored safely. After cooking, let it cool completely, then place the bacon in an airtight container or wrap it well in foil or plastic wrap. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. For longer storage, freeze it in a sealed bag for up to 2 months. Reheat gently to retain its crispy texture without drying out the glaze.

Bourbon Bacon Recipe With Sweet Smoky Candied Bacon

Name: Bourbon Bacon
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: – 2 pounds thick center-cut bacon Forms the hearty base with its crispy texture; – 1 cup brown sugar Adds a caramelized sweetness that balances the smokiness; – 4 tablespoons raw honey Brings in a natural stickiness and floral depth; – 1/3 cup bourbon Infuses that signature smoky warmth into every bite

Description

🥓 Savor the perfect blend of sweet and smoky flavors with bourbon candied bacon that’s irresistibly crispy.
🍯 This recipe combines thick-cut bacon with brown sugar, honey, and bourbon for a decadent treat perfect for snacks or toppings.

Ingredients

– 2 pounds thick center-cut bacon Forms the hearty base with its crispy texture

– 1 cup brown sugar Adds a caramelized sweetness that balances the smokiness

– 4 tablespoons raw honey Brings in a natural stickiness and floral depth

– 1/3 cup bourbon Infuses that signature smoky warmth into every bite

Instructions

1-First, preheat your oven to 425°F and line two cookie sheets with foil or parchment paper. Add a wire rack on each for that even cook.

2-Next, lay out the bacon slices one by one on the wire racks and bake them for 25-30 minutes until they’re crispy but still tender.

3-Use tongs to move the bacon to plates with paper towels so it can drain off any excess grease.

4-Swap out the foil or parchment on the cookie sheets, then place the drained bacon back in a single layer.

5-Sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the top of the bacon for that sweet layer.

6-In a bowl, whisk together the raw honey and bourbon, then drizzle it slowly over the sugar-coated bacon to let it soak in.

7-Pop it back in the oven at 425°F for another 10 minutes, with the door slightly cracked to handle the alcohol.

8-Finally, carefully take out the bacon watch for hot syrup and let it cool on a wire rack over parchment to catch any drips.

Notes

🥓 Use thick center-cut bacon for optimal flavor balance.
🧼 Line sheets with foil or parchment for easy cleanup.
⚠️ Exercise caution handling hot syrup; use tongs and keep oven door slightly ajar during the second bake.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Snack
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 2 strips
Calories: 265
Sugar: 15 grams
Sodium: 759 milligrams
Fat: 15 grams
Saturated Fat: 7 grams
Carbohydrates: 15 grams
Protein: 17 grams
Cholesterol: 29 milligrams

Keywords: Bourbon bacon, Candied bacon, Sweet smoky bacon, Crispy bacon