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Air Fryer Brown Sugar Candied Bacon

Name: Air Fryer Brown Sugar Candied Bacon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 pound bacon; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste); 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or to taste, optional)

Author: Laurie Fleming
Published: July 6, 2021

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Air Fryer Brown Sugar Candied Bacon is one of life’s greatest gifts, and if you love air-fried bacon, you will absolutely love this recipe!

My kids love bacon. Of course, they do. There is nothing better than Bacon from the air fried unless you kick it up a notch and make air-fried candy bacon, and then it’s earth-shattering.

Making candied bacon has never been easier! And it takes only a couple of minutes to add the spices and sugar. So, the next time you want to elevate your Bloody Mary or crumble some in your Cobb Salad, remember candy bacon first!

Two words that, when they go together, you can almost taste how good they will be.

Candy & Bacon Equal pure deliciousness!

If you are looking for even more Air Fryer Bacon Recipes, some of my favorites are AIR FRYER BRUSSELS SPROUTS AND BACON, AIR FRYER MAPLE CANDIED BACON, AIR FRYER BBQ CHICKEN WRAPPED IN BACON, and AIR FRYER BACON WRAPPED SCALLOPS.

Easy Air Fryer Brown Sugar Bacon Recipe

Candied bacon is nothing more than bacon that has been rubbed with either brown or granulated sugar.

You can also add some seasonings, varying from hot to savory. Some of my family’s favorites are black pepper, and my son loves some red pepper flakes. But you can add anything that you love!

Candied Bacon

What You Will Love Brown Sugar Bacon In Air Fryer

You will love making Brown Sugar Candied Bacon because it combines the irresistible flavors of crispy bacon and sweet caramelization. It’s a simple yet indulgent treat that’s perfect as a snack, appetizer, or a unique addition to your breakfast spread. Plus, the Air Fryer makes it quick and mess-free, ensuring perfectly cooked candied bacon every time. Get ready to savor that delightful combination of savory and sweet flavors in each crispy bite!

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Brown Sugar Candied Bacon

Indulge in the irresistible combination of crispy bacon and sweet caramelization with Air Fryer Brown Sugar Candied Bacon. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll transform ordinary bacon into a delectable treat that’s perfect for snacking, garnishing dishes, or adding a delightful twist to your breakfast. Get ready to savor the mouthwatering fusion of sweet and savory flavors in every heavenly bite.

Remember the step-by-step directions and detailed ingredient list are below, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post, as well as the nutritional information.

Bacon Strips: Thick-cut bacon works best for this recipe, providing a hearty base for the sweet and savory coating.
Brown Sugar: The brown sugar creates a caramelized layer that gives the bacon its sweet and crunchy glaze.
Black Pepper: A dash of black pepper adds a subtle kick to balance out the sweetness.
Cayenne Pepper (Optional): For those who enjoy a bit of heat, cayenne pepper can be added for a spicy twist.

How To Make Brown Sugar Candied Bacon In Air Fryer

Indulge in the irresistible combination of sweet and savory with this easy-to-follow recipe for Air Fryer Brown Sugar Candied Bacon. In just a few simple steps, you’ll transform ordinary bacon into a crispy, caramelized treat that’s perfect as a snack, a side dish, or a unique addition to your favorite burgers and sandwiches. Let’s dive into the delightful world of candied bacon using the convenience of your air fryer.

How To Make Air Fryer Brown Sugar Candied Bacon:

Preheat Your Air Fryer: Begin by preheating your air fryer to 350 degrees F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes.

Prepare the Brown Sugar Mixture: In a bowl, combine brown sugar, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well to ensure even distribution of flavors.

Coat the Bacon: Lay out your bacon strips on a clean surface or cutting board. Take the brown sugar mixture and evenly coat each strip of bacon, pressing it in gently to adhere.

Arrange in the Air Fryer Basket: Place the bacon strips in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t overlap. You may need to cook them in batches if your air fryer has limited space.

Air Fry the Bacon: Cook the bacon in the preheated air fryer for about 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on it as cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the bacon and your air fryer model. The bacon should become crispy and caramelized. For best results, flip the bacon halfway during the cooking process.

Drain and Cool: Once done, carefully remove the candied bacon from the air fryer basket and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess grease. Let it cool for a few minutes.

Enjoy: Your Air Fryer Brown Sugar Candied Bacon is ready to be enjoyed! Serve it as a delightful snack, a side for breakfast, or as a unique topping for burgers and sandwiches.

Remember that the cooking time can vary, so adjust it based on your preferences and the thickness of the bacon. Enjoy the perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors with this homemade candied bacon made in the air fryer!

Brown Sugar Bacon In Air Fryer Recipe Variations

Spiced Delight: Add a kick to your candied bacon by sprinkling some chili powder or smoked paprika on top of the brown sugar before air frying. This will give it a smoky and spicy flavor profile that’s sure to tickle your taste buds.
Maple Glaze: For a touch of maple sweetness, drizzle a bit of maple syrup over your bacon slices along with the brown sugar before air frying. The combination of brown sugar and maple syrup will create a rich and luxurious glaze.
Black Pepper Twist: Enhance the savory side of your candied bacon by generously seasoning it with freshly ground black pepper before air frying. The peppery bite complements the sweetness of the brown sugar beautifully.
Candied Bacon Strips: Instead of cutting the bacon into bite-sized pieces, try making candied bacon strips. Lay out whole bacon strips on the air fryer tray, sprinkle with brown sugar, and cook until they become crispy and candied. Perfect for sandwiches or as a side for breakfast.
Candied Bacon Bits: Turn your candied bacon into bacon bits by finely chopping it after air frying. These candied bacon bits can be used to sprinkle over salads, baked potatoes, or even ice cream for a sweet and salty twist.

Experiment with these variations to customize your candied bacon to your liking, and discover new ways to enjoy this delightful treat!

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Brown Sugar Bacon In Air Fryer Recipe Pro Tips

Choose Thick-Cut Bacon: Opt for thick-cut bacon slices, as they hold up better during air frying and provide a satisfying meaty texture.
Line the Air Fryer Tray: To make cleanup easier, consider lining the air fryer tray with aluminum foil or parchment paper. This will help prevent the brown sugar from sticking to the tray and make cleaning up a breeze.
Use Cooking Spray: Give the air fryer tray a light coating of cooking spray before placing the bacon. This can help prevent sticking and make it easier to remove the candied bacon later.
Evenly Coat with Brown Sugar: Make sure to evenly coat each bacon slice with brown sugar to ensure a consistent caramelization and sweetness in every bite.
Don’t Overcrowd the Tray: Arrange the bacon slices in a single layer, making sure they don’t overlap. Overcrowding can prevent proper air circulation, leading to uneven cooking.
Keep an Eye on Cooking Time: Keep a close watch on the bacon as it cooks, especially during the last few minutes. Brown sugar can caramelize quickly, and you don’t want it to burn. Adjust the cooking time as needed.
Pat Off Excess Grease: After air frying, place the candied bacon on a paper towel-lined plate to drain off any excess grease. This will help keep it crispy and prevent it from becoming too oily.
Let It Cool: Allow the candied bacon to cool for a few minutes before handling it. This will help it firm up and become crispier.
Store Properly: If you have any leftover candied bacon (which is rare!), store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can reheat it briefly in the air fryer to restore its crispiness.

Brown Sugar Bacon In Air Fryer Recipe Faq’s

Can I use regular-cut bacon instead of thick-cut for this recipe? Yes, you can use regular-cut bacon if that’s what you have on hand. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may be slightly shorter, so watch it closely as it cooks to prevent burning.

Can I use other types of sugar for candying the bacon? While brown sugar is commonly used for candying bacon due to its rich flavor, you can experiment with other sugars like maple syrup, honey, or even a combination of different sugars for different flavors.

Do I need to preheat the air fryer before cooking the bacon? Preheating is not necessary for this recipe. You can start cooking the bacon in a cold air fryer, and it will cook evenly.

What’s the best way to store any leftover candied bacon? Store any leftover candied bacon in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can stay fresh for a few days. You can reheat it in the air fryer briefly to restore its crispiness.

Can I make this bacon in advance for a crowd? Absolutely! Candied bacon is a great option for preparing in advance. You can make a large batch and reheat it when needed. Just be sure to store it properly to maintain its texture and flavor.

What are some serving suggestions for candied bacon besides eating it as-is? Candied bacon makes a delightful addition to a variety of dishes. You can use it as a topping for salads, sandwiches, burgers, or even desserts like ice cream or brownies. It’s also a fantastic accompaniment to brunch dishes like French toast or pancakes.

Can I freeze candied bacon for future use? Yes, you can freeze candied bacon. To freeze, place it in an airtight container or a zip-top bag with layers of parchment paper in between the slices to prevent sticking. Freeze for up to two months. Thaw and reheat in the air fryer when you’re ready to enjoy it again.

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