Honey Sriracha Candied Bacon
Equipment
- Baking sheet Line it with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Wire Rack Elevates the bacon, ensuring even cooking and crispiness.
- Basting brush Helps evenly coat the bacon with the honey-sriracha mixture.
- Tongs Essential for flipping the bacon safely.
Ingredients
- 1 lb thick-cut bacon – Thicker slices work best for a chewy yet crispy texture.
- ¼ cup honey – Provides a rich sweetness and caramelization.
- 2 tbsp sriracha – Adjust to taste for that perfect spicy kick.
- ¼ cup brown sugar – Enhances the candied effect and deepens the flavor.
- 1 tsp black pepper – Adds a bit of balance to the sweetness.
- ½ tsp smoked paprika – Brings a subtle smoky undertone.
Instructions
Prep the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top. This setup allows the bacon to crisp up evenly without getting greasy.
Make the Glaze
- In a small bowl, mix together the honey, sriracha, brown sugar, black pepper, and smoked paprika until smooth. This mixture will coat the bacon, giving it that perfect balance of sweet heat.
Coat the Bacon
- Lay the bacon strips in a single layer on the wire rack. Using a basting brush, evenly coat each strip with the honey-sriracha glaze. Flip and repeat on the other side.
Bake to Perfection
- Place the tray in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping the bacon halfway through. Keep a close eye on it—once the bacon looks deep caramelized and slightly crispy, it’s ready.
Let It Cool (If You Can Wait!)
- Remove the bacon from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. It will continue to crisp up as it cools. The glaze will also set, creating that irresistible candied coating.