Million Dollar Bacon Recipe

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Cook Time: 40 minutes

Original Recipe (1X) yields 8 servings

Ingredients

• 1 pound thick-cut bacon
• 1/3 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup

Directions

Begin by gathering all of your ingredients.

Preheat your oven to 350F (175C) and position the oven rack in the center. Line a large rimmed baking sheet with foil, ensuring it's ready for easy cleanup. Place a wire rack on top of the foil.

Lay the bacon strips in a single layer on the wire rack, ensuring they do not overlap. This ensures even cooking and crispy results.

In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, crushed red pepper, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir the mixture well.

Using your hands, rub the brown sugar mixture generously onto the bacon strips, making sure each piece is coated with the flavorful blend.

Once the bacon is coated, drizzle the maple syrup over the top, giving it a touch of sweetness.

Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 40 to 50 minutes. Keep an eye on the bacon during the last few minutes to ensure it reaches your desired level of caramelization and crispiness. The bacon should be golden, bubbly, and slightly sticky with a perfect balance of sweetness and spice.

Once done, remove the bacon from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	322
Total Fat	20g
Saturated Fat	7g
Cholesterol	56mg
Sodium	958mg
Total Carbohydrate	15g
Dietary Fiber	0g
Total Sugars	13g
Protein	19g
Calcium	24mg
Iron	1mg
Potassium	322mg

The Story Behind Million Dollar Bacon

The origins of Million Dollar Bacon are rooted in American culinary creativity, where traditional breakfast staples are often reimagined as indulgent treats. This recipe likely emerged in the late 20th century as part of the bacon craze, when chefs and home cooks began experimenting with sweet and spicy glazes to elevate the humble pork belly. By combining brown sugar, maple syrup, and a touch of heat from crushed red pepper and cayenne, cooks transformed ordinary bacon into a decadent, candy-like experience that quickly became popular at brunches and food festivals across the United States.

Regional Variations and Features

While Million Dollar Bacon is enjoyed nationwide, certain regions have added their own twists. In the South, pecans or bourbon might be incorporated for a deeper caramelized flavor. In the Northeast, where maple syrup production is iconic, recipes tend to emphasize a richer syrup coating. California chefs sometimes add chili flakes or smoked paprika to cater to local tastes for smoky and spicy profiles. Despite these variations, the core conceptcrispy, chewy, sweet, and spicy baconremains consistent across regions.

Differences from Similar Dishes

Million Dollar Bacon stands out from other bacon-based dishes such as candied bacon or bacon brittle because it balances sweetness and heat without becoming overly hard or brittle. Unlike plain maple-glazed bacon, this recipe incorporates multiple spices, giving it a complex flavor profile that contrasts sweet, savory, and spicy notes. Compared to bacon-wrapped appetizers, Million Dollar Bacon is baked flat, allowing even caramelization and a chewy, yet crisp texture that appeals to both casual eaters and gourmet enthusiasts.

Where Its Typically Served

This bacon is most often enjoyed as part of a hearty breakfast or brunch, paired with pancakes, waffles, or eggs. It has also become a popular topping for burgers, sandwiches, and even cocktails at modern gastropubs. Food festivals and specialty brunch spots often feature it as a novelty item, highlighting its rich flavor and photogenic appearance. Its versatility allows it to function both as a main feature and as a complementary side dish, making it a favorite for entertaining and casual gatherings alike.

Interesting Facts

• The name Million Dollar Bacon reflects its indulgent, luxurious flavor rather than costthough at times, specialty versions with artisan bacon or organic maple syrup can be quite pricey.
• Its a prime example of American sweet and savory experimentation, demonstrating how simple ingredients can be transformed into gourmet experiences.
• Some chefs use it as a garnish for cocktails, like a bourbon Old Fashioned, adding a smoky-sweet twist to beverages.
• The chewy texture with crisp edges is intentionally achieved by using a wire rack during baking, allowing excess fat to drain and the sugars to caramelize evenly.
• Despite its decadent flavor, the recipe remains easy to make at home, requiring minimal ingredients and simple oven baking, which adds to its widespread appeal.

FAQ about Million Dollar Bacon Recipe

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