If you’ve never had candied bacon, buckle up because you’re about to meet your new obsession. This isn’t just any candied bacon—we’re talking Dr. Pepper candied bacon. Sweet, savory, a little spicy, and totally addictive. Trust me, this recipe is a game-changer. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or whenever you’re craving something epic.

Ingredients

• 1 lb thick-cut bacon
• 1 cup Dr. Pepper (about 8 ounces)
• 1/2 cup brown sugar (light or dark works fine)
• 2 Tablespoons maple syrup
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Black pepper (optional, for garnish)
• 1 Tablespoon cornstarch + 1 Tablespoon water (for thickening the glaze)

How to Make It

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with foil (hello, easy cleanup!) and place a wire rack on top. Lay your bacon strips out in a single layer—no overlapping. They need their space to get crispy.

Step 2: Whip Up the Dr. Pepper Glaze

In a small saucepan, combine Dr. Pepper, brown sugar, maple syrup, and cayenne pepper. Stir it all together and bring it to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, drop the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. You want it to reduce by half and get a little syrupy.

Now, mix the cornstarch and water to make a slurry. Stir that into your simmering glaze and cook for another minute or two. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. Take it off the heat and let it cool for a minute.

Step 3: Glaze and Bake

Brush the glaze generously over one side of the bacon strips. Pop the tray in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it—you’re looking for that deep amber, glossy perfection. If it starts to char, pull it out ASAP.

Step 4: Finishing Touches

While the bacon’s still warm, sprinkle on some freshly cracked black pepper if you’re feeling fancy. Let it cool on the rack for a few minutes so the glaze can set. Then, try not to eat it all at once. (No judgment though.)

Tips for the Best Candied Bacon

• Go Thick: Thick-cut bacon holds up best to the glaze and delivers the perfect balance of crispy and chewy.
• Don’t Walk Away: Candied bacon can go from perfect to burnt in a blink. Start checking it at the 20-minute mark.
• Customize the Heat: Not into spicy? Skip the cayenne. Want a little more kick? Add an extra pinch.