This maple-glazed bacon topping is perfect for elevating burgers, pancakes, salads, or even desserts.
Prep/cook: 15min
Ingredients
8 strips of thick-cut bacon
3 tbsp pure maple syrup
2 tbsp brown sugar
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/4 tsp black pepper
For the bacon
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper and place a wire rack on top. Arrange the bacon strips in a single layer on the rack.
For the glaze
In a small bowl, combine the maple syrup, brown sugar, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the glaze is smooth.
Brush the bacon strips with the maple glaze, ensuring an even coating. Reserve some glaze for later use.
Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 10–12 minutes. Remove from the oven, flip the bacon, and brush the other side with the remaining glaze.
Continue baking for another 10–15 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and caramelized to your liking. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning, as the sugar can caramelize quickly.
Let the bacon cool slightly on the rack to crisp up further. Once cool, chop it into small pieces or crumble it into a topping and add to a gourmet burger or grilled cheese sandwich, fluffy pancakes, or waffles.
