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Dr Pepper Candied Bacon

Dr Pepper Candied Bacon

A sweet and sticky snack featuring thick-cut bacon glazed with a rich mixture of Dr Pepper, brown sugar, and spices. This easy-to-make treat balances smoky, sweet, and slightly spicy flavors, making it perfect for brunch, parties, or game day snacks.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Appetizer, Snacks
Cuisine American
Servings 10 strips
Calories 150 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Baking Sheet Lined with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
  • 1 Wire Rack Placed on top of the baking sheet to elevate the bacon.
  • 1 Small saucepan For reducing Dr Pepper and making the glaze.
  • Optional Pastry brush For applying the glaze evenly.

Ingredients
  

For the Candied Bacon

  • 8–10 strips Thick-cut bacon Choose bacon with a good balance of meat and fat.
  • 1 cup Dr Pepper soda Fresh, carbonated for best results.
  • ½ cup Brown sugar Adds sweetness and caramelization.
  • ¼ tsp Cayenne pepper Adjust to taste for heat.
  • ¼ tsp Black pepper Adds earthy warmth.
  • ¼ tsp Garlic powder Enhances savory notes.

Instructions
 

Step-by-Step Recipe

    Prepare the Bacon:

    • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top.
    • Arrange the bacon strips in a single layer on the wire rack, ensuring they do not overlap.

    Make the Dr Pepper Glaze:

    • In a small saucepan, pour the Dr Pepper and heat over medium heat. Simmer until reduced by half, about 10 minutes.
    • Stir in the brown sugar, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and garlic powder. Cook until the sugar dissolves completely and the mixture thickens slightly. Remove from heat.

    Glaze and Bake:

    • Brush the Dr Pepper glaze evenly onto both sides of the bacon strips.
    • Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and caramelized.
    • Halfway through baking, remove the pan and apply a second coat of glaze to build up flavor and texture. Rotate the pan for even cooking.

    Cool and Serve:

    • Remove the bacon from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes to allow the glaze to set.
    • Serve warm as a snack, appetizer, or topping for other dishes.

    Notes

      • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
      • Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can soften the glaze.
      • Substitutions: Use turkey bacon or plant-based bacon for dietary preferences. Substitute maple syrup or honey for part of the brown sugar if desired.
     
     

    Frequently Asked Questions

    1. What ingredients are needed to make candied bacon?
      • Thick-cut bacon, Dr Pepper, brown sugar, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and garlic powder.
       
    2. How do I incorporate Dr Pepper into bacon for candied bacon?
      • Reduce Dr Pepper by half, then mix it with brown sugar and spices to form a glaze. Brush it onto the bacon before and during baking.
       
    3. What is the cooking time and temperature for perfect Dr Pepper candied bacon?
      • Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, rotating halfway through and applying a second coat of glaze.
       
    4. Can Dr Pepper candied bacon be made in advance?
      • Yes, cool completely, store in the fridge, and reheat gently in the oven before serving.
       
    5. What are some creative serving suggestions?
      • Serve as a snack, crumble over salads, desserts, or breakfast dishes, or include it on charcuterie boards.
       
    6. Are there any variations for dietary restrictions?
      • Use turkey bacon or plant-based alternatives. Adjust sugar levels or use sugar substitutes for lower-sugar options.
     
     

    Tips & Tricks

    • Flavor Enhancement: Add a splash of maple syrup or smoked paprika for deeper smoky-sweet notes. Garnish with flaky sea salt after baking for contrast.
    • Presentation: Arrange the bacon on a wooden board or platter for a rustic look. Pair with dips like beer cheese or mustard for added flair.
    • Leftovers: Crumble leftover bacon over ice cream, brownies, or salads for a unique twist.
     
     

    Plating and Garnishing

    • Garnish: Sprinkle flaky sea salt or chopped parsley over the bacon for added texture and visual appeal.
    • Serving Style: Serve on a wooden board with toothpicks for easy handling. Pair with complementary sides like fresh fruit, scrambled eggs, or BBQ dishes.
    • Pairings: Pair with creamy cheeses, melon slices, or sweet breakfast items like pancakes and waffles for a balanced meal.
    Keyword Dr Pepper Candied Bacon, Sticky Snack, Sweet Bacon Recipe