Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
- First, gather all your ingredients. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is perfect for cooking bacon evenly without burning it. While the oven heats, line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Arrange the Bacon
- Place the sliced bacon onto the prepared baking sheet. Ensure the strips don’t overlap; you want each piece to crisp up evenly. It’s best if they lay flat and spread out on the sheet.
Step 3: Mix the Sprinkle
- In a bowl, combine the brown sugar, smoked paprika, cracked black pepper, and cayenne pepper. This mixture is where the magic starts. Stir until well mixed.
Step 4: Season the Bacon
- Sprinkle this flavorful blend evenly over the bacon. Don’t be shy! The sugar will caramelize in the oven, creating a delightful crust.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
- Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven. Bake for about 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on it—the sugar can burn quickly, so you want it a perfect caramel brown. The bacon will also become super crispy as it cooks.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
- Once cooked, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the bacon cool for a few minutes. This allows the sugars to set and crystallize. Then, slice it up (if you wish) and serve immediately.
Nutrition
Notes
Here are some handy tips to elevate your bacon game:
- Use Quality Bacon: Opt for thick-sliced smoked bacon. It offers a better texture and flavor.
- Don’t Rush Cooling: Allowing bacon to cool helps the sugar set properly for that perfect crunch.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add more spices like cayenne or even a dash of cinnamon for a unique twist.
- Baking Sheet Choice: Use a rimmed baking sheet to catch any drippings for easier cleanup.
- Avoid Overbaking: Once your bacon gets to that nice caramel color, take it out! Crisper isn’t always better.