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CANDIED BACON CRACKERS

CANDIED BACON CRACKERS

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Candied Bacon Crackers – The Ultimate Sweet and Savory Snack

If you’re looking for a snack that combines the irresistible flavors of crispy bacon, sweet caramelization, and a satisfying crunch, look no further than Candied Bacon Crackers. This recipe takes a beloved breakfast classic, bacon, and transforms it into a savory-sweet treat that’s perfect for any occasion—from casual snacking to holiday appetizers. The best part? It’s super easy to make, and everyone will be asking for your secret once they take that first bite.

In this article, we’ll dive into the delicious world of Candied Bacon Crackers, giving you everything you need to know to make this addictive snack at home.

What Are Candied Bacon Crackers?

Candied Bacon Crackers are the perfect fusion of crunchy, salty crackers and rich, sweet candied bacon. The recipe starts by layering crispy bacon, coated in a sweet glaze, over buttery crackers. The bacon is then baked to perfection until it reaches the ideal level of sweetness and crunch, creating a delightful contrast between the savory cracker base and the sweet, smoky bacon topping.

These little bite-sized treats are perfect for game day, parties, or just a fun snack to enjoy at home. The combination of sweet, salty, and smoky flavors will have your taste buds dancing with joy.

Ingredients for Candied Bacon Crackers

Making Candied Bacon Crackers is simple, and you probably already have most of the ingredients in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Bacon:

  • 12 slices of thick-cut bacon (the thicker the bacon, the better the texture)
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar (for sweetness and caramelization)
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup (adds a deeper sweetness and flavor)
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper (for a little savory kick)
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (adds a subtle smokiness to complement the bacon)

For the Crackers:

  • 24 unsalted buttery crackers (Ritz crackers or any similar buttery cracker works best)
  • A pinch of sea salt (to enhance the flavors)

How to Make Candied Bacon Crackers

Creating these sweet and savory bites is surprisingly easy and requires minimal prep. Here’s how to make Candied Bacon Crackers in a few simple steps:

Step 1: Prepare the Bacon

  1. Preheat the oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Prep the bacon: Place the thick-cut bacon slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Ensure that the slices are spread out evenly without overlapping to ensure even cooking.
  3. Glaze the bacon: In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, maple syrup, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Using a spoon or a pastry brush, coat the bacon slices with the glaze mixture. Make sure each slice is generously coated.
  4. Bake the bacon: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and caramelized. Keep an eye on the bacon to prevent burning, as the sugar can quickly go from caramelized to burnt.
  5. Cool the bacon: Once the bacon is crispy and golden brown, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. Once cooled, chop the bacon into small bite-sized pieces, which will be used to top the crackers.

Step 2: Assemble the Crackers

  1. Prepare the crackers: While the bacon is cooling, arrange the buttery crackers in a single layer on a separate baking sheet. You can use any buttery cracker of your choice—Ritz crackers work perfectly due to their delicate, buttery flavor.
  2. Top with bacon: Once the bacon is cool enough to handle, chop it into small pieces. Evenly distribute the candied bacon pieces over the crackers. Each cracker should get a generous amount of bacon.
  3. Add a pinch of sea salt: Lightly sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the crackers to enhance the savory aspect and balance the sweetness of the bacon.

Step 3: Bake the Candied Bacon Crackers

  1. Bake the crackers: Place the crackers topped with bacon back in the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes at 350°F. This step helps the bacon adhere to the crackers and gives them a little extra crunch.
  2. Cool and serve: Remove the tray from the oven and let the Candied Bacon Crackers cool for a few minutes. Once they have cooled slightly and the bacon has set, they’re ready to serve!

Tips for Perfect Candied Bacon Crackers

  • Use thick-cut bacon: Thick-cut bacon crisps up better and holds its shape, making it perfect for this recipe. It also allows the bacon to caramelize beautifully without becoming too crispy or burnt.
  • Adjust sweetness: If you like a sweeter flavor, feel free to add a little more brown sugar or maple syrup to the glaze. For those who prefer a more savory flavor, you can reduce the sugar and add extra pepper or spices.
  • Make in batches: If you’re making these for a large crowd, feel free to double the recipe and use multiple baking sheets. This way, you can prepare enough for everyone to enjoy!
  • Use a cooling rack: After baking, if you want extra crispness, place the bacon-topped crackers on a cooling rack. This helps air circulate a