Perfect Million Dollar Bacon

This indulgent Million Dollar Bacon transforms ordinary breakfast into a memorable feast. The perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors creates an irresistible treat that elevates any brunch spread.

I discovered this recipe when hosting a holiday brunch and needed something special to impress my inlaws. The name delivers on its promise every time I serve it, with guests literally fighting over the last pieces.

Ingredients

• Thick cut bacon: Choose premium quality thick cut for the best texture and to hold up to the glaze
• Brown sugar: Adds a rich caramelization and depth of sweetness that white sugar cannot match
• Pure maple syrup: Real maple syrup provides authentic flavor and helps create the perfect sticky glaze
• Cracked black pepper: Freshly cracked provides more flavor than pre ground and adds a subtle heat
• Red pepper flakes: Delivers the signature spicy kick that balances all the sweetness
• Cayenne pepper: Optional but recommended for those who enjoy extra heat and complexity

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 350°F while you prepare everything else. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil to make cleanup easier, then place a wire rack on top. This rack elevation is crucial for allowing the heat to circulate around the bacon for even cooking and crispiness.

Arrange the Bacon:

Lay out each bacon slice in a single layer on the wire rack. Ensure no pieces overlap as this would prevent proper caramelization and crispiness. Take the time to arrange them neatly with small gaps between each slice to allow for air circulation.

Prepare the Glaze:

Combine brown sugar, maple syrup, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and cayenne if using in a small bowl. Stir thoroughly until you achieve a thick paste consistency. The mixture should be spreadable but not too runny. If it seems too dry, add a tiny bit more maple syrup.

Glaze the Bacon:

Using a pastry brush or the back of a spoon, generously coat each slice of bacon with the glaze mixture. Ensure you cover the entire surface of each slice for consistent flavor. The glaze will melt and spread during cooking, but starting with good coverage is important.

Bake to Perfection:

Place the baking sheet in the center of your preheated oven and bake for 20 to 30 minutes. The exact time will depend on your bacon thickness and desired crispness. Watch carefully after the 20 minute mark as the sugar can burn quickly. The bacon should look deeply caramelized with a shiny, lacquered appearance.

Cool and Serve:

Remove from the oven and allow the bacon to cool on the wire rack for 5 to 10 minutes. This cooling period is essential as it allows the glaze to set and the bacon to achieve its final crispy texture. The bacon will become less sticky and easier to handle as it cools.

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The first time I served this bacon, my brother who rarely compliments anything nearly fell off his chair. He declared it better than any restaurant version and now requests it for every family gathering. The cayenne pepper is my secret weapon that most recipes miss but adds that perfect heat complexity.

Make-Ahead Tips

This bacon can be prepared up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container with parchment between layers. When ready to serve, place on a baking sheet and warm in a 300°F oven for 5 to 8 minutes. The texture will not be quite as perfect as freshly made, but the convenience often outweighs this slight difference for busy brunch hosts.

Flavor Variations

For a bourbon twist, add 1 tablespoon of your favorite bourbon to the glaze mixture before applying. The alcohol will cook off during baking, leaving behind a complex smoky caramel note. You can also experiment with adding different spices like cinnamon, smoked paprika, or even a tablespoon of sriracha instead of the red pepper flakes for different heat profiles. For a more savory version, add 1 teaspoon of fresh rosemary or thyme to the glaze.

Serving Suggestions

Million Dollar Bacon pairs beautifully with lighter breakfast items to balance its richness. Serve alongside fluffy scrambled eggs and fresh fruit for a beautiful contrast. It also makes an incredible addition to breakfast sandwiches or crumbled over salads for lunch. For an exceptional appetizer, cut the cooked bacon into smaller pieces and serve with wooden picks alongside a brunch cocktail.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ What makes this bacon special?

The combination of sweet brown sugar, pure maple syrup, and a hint of spice creates a unique, caramelized flavor that elevates the bacon.

→ Can I adjust the spice level?

Yes! You can modify the amount of red pepper flakes and cayenne pepper to suit your taste preferences.

→ What’s the best way to serve Million Dollar Bacon?

It pairs wonderfully with eggs, pancakes, or as a standalone treat during breakfast or brunch.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. Store it in an airtight container and reheat it in the oven for a few minutes before serving.

→ What type of bacon works best?

Thick-cut bacon is recommended to hold the glaze well and achieve the perfect balance of crispiness and flavor.