Candied bacon is one of those irresistible recipes that’s hard to stop eating once you start. It’s sweet, sticky, and crisp around the edge with a deep caramelized flavor from the brown sugar. This version takes it to the next level with a “cowboy twist”: a brush of barbecue sauce, a sprinkle of barbecue rub, and a few slices of jalapeños for some heat.
It’s great with fried eggs for breakfast, tucked into grilled burgers at summer cookouts, or as a garnish for Bloody Marys and micheladas (it’s practically a meal!). However you serve it, just be ready for it to disappear fast.
Why You’ll Love It
- It’s sweet, smoky, and spicy. Thick-cut bacon is layered with sweet and smoky barbecue flavor and topped with sliced jalapenos.
- It’s perfect anytime. Serve it for breakfast or dinner, as a snack, and even as a cocktail garnish.
Key Ingredients in Cowboy Candied Bacon
- Bacon: Use thick-cut bacon for a perfect balance of crisp edges and chewy texture.
- Brown sugar: Caramelizes in the oven for a sweet, glossy coating.
- Barbecue rub: Adds smoky flavor with a hint of spice.
- Barbecue sauce: Brushed on for an extra layer of flavor and sticky, caramelized edges as it bakes.
- Jalapenos: When you slice jalapenos thin for a kick of heat, you can remove the seeds to tone them down.
What to Serve With Cowboy Candied Bacon
Cowboy Candied Bacon
Serves 4 to 6- 1 pound thick-cut bacon (10 to 12 slices)
- 1/3 cup packed light or dark brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons store-bought or homemade barbecue rub
- 4 tablespoons tomato-based barbecue sauce, divided
- 3 medium jalapeno peppers, thinly sliced crosswise
