Easy Crispy Air Fryer Maple Candied Bacon — 🥓✨ Indulgence Meets Simplicity: Introducing Easy Crispy Air Fryer Maple Candied Bacon ✨🥓

Hello, bacon aficionados and lovers of all things sweet and savory! Prepare to embark on a compelling culinary journey that combines the irresistible allure of crispy bacon with the heavenly sweetness of maple syrup. Our latest culinary creation, Easy Crispy Air Fryer Maple Candied Bacon, is a match made in foodie heaven.

Air Fryer Maple Candied Bacon
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Picture this: perfectly cooked bacon, tantalizingly crisp with just the right candied sweetness. The magic of the air fryer transforms this classic breakfast delight into a symphony of flavors and textures that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy.

Whether you’re a breakfast enthusiast, a brunch aficionado, or simply someone who appreciates the finer things in life, this recipe is about to become your go-to guilty pleasure. And the best part? It’s astonishingly easy to whip up, requiring just a few simple ingredients and a trusty air fryer.

If you are looking for even more Air Fryer Bacon Recipes, some of my favorites are AIR FRYER TURKEY BACON, AIR FRYER MAPLE AND BROWN SUGAR BACON, INSTANT POT VORTEX AIR FRYER, BACON AND EGGS, and AIR FRYER, BACON AND CHEESE BREAKFAST PINWHEELS.

Why You Will Love Maple Candied Bacon

Prepare to fall head over heels for Maple Candied Bacon because it’s a culinary masterpiece that blends the best of both worlds: sweet and savory. Here’s why you’ll absolutely adore it:

  • Perfect Sweet-Savory Balance: Maple Candied Bacon strikes a harmonious balance between bacon’s smoky, salty essence and the sweet, caramelized goodness of maple syrup. Each bite offers a delightful contrast that tantalizes your taste buds.
  • Irresistible Crispy Texture: The magic of the air fryer transforms bacon into crispy, golden perfection. The texture adds an addictive crunch to every bite, making stopping at just one slice impossible.
  • Effortless Preparation: This recipe is incredibly easy to make with just a few ingredients. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen beginner, you can easily whip up Maple Candied Bacon.
  • Versatility at Its Finest: Maple Candied Bacon isn’t limited to breakfast. It’s a versatile delight that can elevate a variety of dishes. Serve it alongside eggs, use it as a topping for burgers, sprinkle it over salads, or enjoy it as a sweet-savory snack.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Whether you’re hosting brunch, entertaining guests, or simply treating yourself, Maple Candied Bacon is guaranteed to be a hit. It’s a universally loved indulgence that appeals to all ages.
  • Crave-Worthy Aroma: While cooking, Maple Candied Bacon fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that beckons everyone to the table. It’s the kind of scent that instantly boosts your appetite.
  • Quick and Satisfying: Maple Candied Bacon offers near-instant gratification with minimal prep and cooking time. Crispy, candied goodness is just moments away.
  • Endless Customization: While maple syrup is a classic choice, you can experiment with flavors like brown sugar, honey, or even a hint of cayenne for a spicy kick. The possibilities are as endless as your imagination.

Get ready to embrace the culinary joy that is Maple Candied Bacon. It’s a delectable treat that effortlessly combines the best of sweet and savory flavors, and once you try it, you’ll be hooked! 

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Maple Candied Bacon

With these ingredients, you’ll create the perfect combination of sweet and savory in your Air Fryer Maple Candied Bacon, a delectable sweet treat, or a great snack that will delight your taste buds.

WHAT DO I NEED TO MAKE AIR FRYER MAPLE CANDIED BACON?

​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 strips serve as the show’s star, providing that savory, smoky base for your Maple Candied Bacon.
  • Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup adds a rich, natural sweetness and a delightful caramelization to the bacon as it cooks.
  • Brown Sugar: Brown sugar complements the maple syrup, enhancing the candied aspect and providing an extra layer of sweetness and caramelization.
  • Ground Black Pepper: A pinch of black pepper adds a subtle, peppery contrast that balances the sweetness of the maple syrup and brown sugar.
  • Cayenne Pepper (Optional): For those who crave a hint of heat, a dash of cayenne pepper can be added to the mixture, creating a sweet-spicy flavor profile.

How To Make Maple Candied Bacon In Air Fryer

Making Maple Candied Bacon in the air fryer is a breeze and delivers irresistibly crispy, sweet-savory goodness. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

How To Make Maple Candied Bacon In Air Fryer

Prep the Bacon: Lay out your bacon strips on a clean surface. Dry the bacon slices with a paper towel. You can use a rack or parchment paper in the air fryer basket to keep the bacon elevated and prevent it from sitting in its grease, which helps with crispiness. This will also help with easier cleanup.

Mix the Candying Mixture: In a small bowl, combine maple syrup, brown sugar, a pinch of ground black pepper, and a dash of cayenne pepper (if you want a spicy twist). Stir until the mixture is well combined.

Candying the Bacon: Brush or drizzle the maple syrup mixture generously over the strips of bacon. Ensure that each strip is coated on both sides for maximum flavor.

If you prefer, you can also sprinkle the brown sugar and spices directly onto the bacon.

Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-4 minutes. Preheating ensures that the bacon starts cooking immediately.

How To Make Maple Candied Bacon In Air Fryer

Arrange in the Air Fryer: Place the slices of bacon in the air fryer basket or the rack in a single layer, ensuring they don’t overlap.

Air Fry the Bacon: Cook the bacon at 400 degrees F (200°C) for about 8-12 minutes. Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the bacon and your air fryer model.

Flip the bacon strips halfway through the cooking time to ensure even crispiness. Keep a close eye on the bacon to prevent it from burning. It should be golden brown and crispy when done.

Cool and Serve: Carefully remove the Maple Bacon from the air fryer. Let it cool for a couple of minutes on a wire rack to allow the candied coating to set.

Serve your crispy, sweet-savory Maple Candied Bacon as a delicious snack, a side dish, or a delightful breakfast treat.

This easy-to-follow recipe will have you savoring the delightful combination of crispy, candied perfection in no time. Enjoy the sweet-savory goodness of Maple Candied Bacon straight from your air fryer!  

Air Fryer Maple Candied Bacon

Recipe Variations

Here are some delightful recipe variations to take your Air Fryer Maple Candied Bacon to the next level:

  • Candied Spice Blend: Create a custom spice blend by adding ingredients like cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice to the brown sugar mixture for a warm and aromatic twist.
  • Smoky Bacon Bliss: Infuse your candied bacon with a hint of smokiness by incorporating smoked paprika into the maple syrup mixture.
  • Nutty Crunch: Before cooking, sprinkle finely chopped pecans, almonds, or candied walnuts onto the bacon strips. The nuts will toast as the bacon cooks, adding a delightful crunch.
  • Bourbon-Infused Bacon: For an adult twist, add a splash of bourbon to the maple syrup mixture before brushing it onto the bacon. The bourbon imparts a rich, complex flavor.
  • Herb-Infused Candied Bacon: Experiment with savory herbs like rosemary or thyme by adding them to the candying mixture. The herbs provide a fragrant and herbaceous contrast to the sweetness.
  • Coconut Bacon: Replace the traditional brown sugar with coconut sugar and sprinkle shredded coconut on the bacon strips. This variation offers a tropical twist to your candied bacon.
  • Maple Sriracha Bacon: If you enjoy a sweet-spicy flavor combination, add a drizzle of Sriracha sauce and some red pepper flakes or chilli flakes to the maple syrup mixture for a sweet heat that’s truly irresistible.
  • Savory Candied Bacon: Mix things up by adding a touch of Dijon mustard and a sprinkle of crushed garlic to the candying mixture for a savory-sweet bacon experience.
  • Chocolate-Dipped Bacon: After air frying, dip the cooled candied bacon in melted dark chocolate and let it set. The combination of sweet maple, crispy bacon, and rich chocolate is pure decadence.
  • Maple Candied Bacon Bites: Cut the bacon strips into bite-sized pieces before air frying for a perfect party snack or appetizer.

Feel free to get creative and customize your Maple Candied Bacon to match your taste preferences or the occasion. These variations will keep your taste buds intrigued and your guests delighted! 

Air Fryer Maple Bourbon Candied Bacon

Pro Tips

Achieving the perfect Air Fryer Maple Candied Bacon requires a little finesse and attention to detail. Here are some pro tips to ensure your bacon turns out irresistibly crispy and delicious:

  • Choose Thick-Cut Bacon: Opt for thick-cut bacon strips, as they hold up better to the candying process and remain extra crispy in the air fryer.
  • Use Real Maple Syrup: Use pure maple syrup rather than pancake or maple-flavored syrup. Real maple syrup delivers authentic flavor and better caramelization.
  • Adjust the Sweetness: Tailor the sweetness to your liking. If you prefer a more pronounced sweetness, add an extra drizzle of maple syrup. For a balanced flavor, stick to the recommended measurements.
  • Even Coating: Ensure that each bacon strip is evenly coated with maple syrup. Use a brush or your fingers to spread it evenly, avoiding clumps or excess pooling.
  • Preheat for Crispiness: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for a few minutes before adding the bacon. Preheating helps kickstart the crisping process.
  • Watch the Time: Keep a close eye on the bacon as it cooks. Cooking times can vary depending on the thickness of the bacon and your air fryer model. Remove it when it’s golden brown and crispy.
  • Space Them Out: Arrange the bacon strips in a single layer without overlapping in the air fryer basket. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking.
  • Flip Midway: Flip the bacon strips halfway through cooking to ensure both sides get evenly crispy and candied.
  • Pat Excess Grease: After cooking, pat the bacon lightly with paper towels to remove any excess grease. This helps maintain the crispy texture and reduces excess oil.
  • Cool and Set: Allow the candied bacon to cool for a few minutes after cooking. This helps the candied coating set and become delightfully crunchy.
  • Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore their crispiness.
  • Get Creative: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different spices, nuts, or glazes to create your unique candied bacon variations.

With these pro tips, you’ll master the art of making crispy, sweet, and irresistible Air Fryer Maple Candied Bacon. Enjoy every delicious bite! 🥓🍁🔥😋

Air Fryer Maple Candied Bacon

Faq’s​

Can I use regular thin-cut bacon for this recipe? While thick-cut bacon is recommended for the best results, you can use regular bacon if that’s what you have. Just remember that cooking times may vary, and you may need to reduce the candying mixture to prevent it from becoming overly sweet.

What’s the ideal thickness for bacon strips? Thick-cut bacon, typically 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick, works best for this recipe as it maintains its texture and flavor while caramelizing with the maple syrup.

Can I make this recipe with turkey bacon or vegetarian bacon? Yes, you can use turkey bacon or vegetarian bacon alternatives, but the texture and cooking times may differ from traditional pork bacon. Adjust the cooking time as needed.

Is it necessary to flip the bacon during cooking? Flipping the bacon strips halfway through the cooking time is recommended to ensure even crispiness and caramelization.

How do I prevent the bacon from becoming too sweet? Adjust the sweetness to your preference by using less maple syrup or brown sugar in the candying mixture. Taste-test the mixture before applying it to the bacon to achieve your desired level of sweetness.

Can I make this recipe in advance? While Maple Candied Bacon is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare it in advance and reheat it in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore its crispiness.

Can I use different spices or flavorings in the candying mixture? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other spices, herbs, or sauces to create unique variations of candied bacon.

How do I store leftover candied bacon? Let the bacon cool to room temperature before storing. Store any leftover candied bacon in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Or wrap tightly with aluminum foil. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain its crispiness when ready to enjoy again.

Can I freeze Maple Candied Bacon? While it’s possible to freeze candied bacon, it may lose some of its texture and flavor upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored in the refrigerator for short-term use.

What are some serving suggestions for Maple Candied Bacon?– Maple Candied Bacon is incredibly versatile. Enjoy it as a sweet-savory snack, perfect for spice or bacon lovers; serve it as an ideal addition for breakfast or brunch, Bloody Mary, crumbled-on salads, or a unique topping for burgers and sandwiches.

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Air Fryer Maple Candied Bacon

Air Fryer Maple Candied Bacon

5 from 2 votes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 22 minutes
Servings: 6 Servings

Description

Making Maple Candied Bacon in the air fryer is a breeze and delivers irresistibly crispy, sweet-savory goodness. Here's a step-by-step guide

Ingredients 

  • 12 slices center-cut bacon
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • 2 tsp brown sugar
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp paprika

Instructions

  • Lay out your bacon strips on a clean surface. You can use a rack or parchment paper in the air fryer basket to keep the bacon elevated and prevent it from sitting in its own grease, which helps with crispiness.
  • In a small bowl, combine maple syrup, brown sugar, a pinch of ground black pepper, and a dash of cayenne pepper (if you want a spicy twist). Stir until the mixture is well combined.
  • Brush or drizzle the maple syrup mixture generously over each strip of bacon. Ensure that each strip is coated on both sides for maximum flavor.
  • If you prefer, you can also sprinkle the brown sugar and spices directly onto the bacon.
  • Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for a few minutes. Preheating ensures that the bacon starts cooking immediately.
  • Place the bacon strips in the air fryer basket or on the rack in a single layer, ensuring they don’t overlap.
  • Cook the bacon at 400°F (200°C) for about 8-12 minutes. Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the bacon and your air fryer model.
  • Flip the bacon strips halfway through the cooking time to ensure even crispiness.
  • Keep a close eye on the bacon to prevent it from burning. It should be golden brown and crispy when done.
  • Once done, carefully remove the Maple Candied Bacon from the air fryer. Let it cool for a few minutes to allow the candied coating to set.
  • Serve your crispy, sweet-savory Maple Candied Bacon as a delicious snack, a side dish, or a delightful breakfast treat.

Equipment

  • Air Fryer
  • Cooking Spray
  • Parchment Paper, optional

Nutrition

Serving: 1ServingCalories: 60kcalCarbohydrates: 11gProtein: 0.03gFat: 2gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.2gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 2mgSodium: 5mgPotassium: 36mgFiber: 0.1gSugar: 9gVitamin A: 27IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 17mgIron: 0.05mg

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