Maple-Candied Bacon Twists Recipe Everyone Will Love

Introduction

The irresistible combination of salty and sweet is what makes maple-candied bacon twists a crowd-pleaser every single time. Imagine crispy, smoky bacon coated with a glossy layer of caramelized maple syrup, twisted into bite-sized pieces of perfection. It’s the ultimate treat for brunches, holiday parties, or even a simple weekday indulgence.

I still remember the first time I made these for a family gathering. They disappeared so fast I barely got a chance to enjoy one myself! Since then, they’ve become a staple whenever I want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, they’re so easy to make that you’ll wonder why you haven’t been whipping these up for every occasion.

Whether you’re hosting a big brunch or just want to treat yourself, these maple-candied bacon twists check all the boxes. With minimal ingredients and effort, this recipe delivers maximum flavor. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll always want to have a batch on hand. Ready to give them a go?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect Balance of Sweet and Savory: The combination of maple syrup and crispy bacon creates a flavor that’s indulgent yet well-balanced.
• Simple Ingredients: You only need a handful of pantry staples to make this recipe happen.
• Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday brunch, a game-day snack, or a fun appetizer for a dinner party, these twists fit the bill.
• Kid-Approved: The sweetness of the maple syrup makes this a hit with kids, and adults won’t be able to resist the smoky bacon goodness.
• Instagram-Worthy: These twists look as good as they taste, with their golden caramelized glaze and delightful spiral shape.

What sets these apart is the simple technique of twisting the bacon before baking. Not only does it make the presentation unique, but it also ensures every bite has a delightful crunch. The maple syrup caramelizes beautifully in the oven, creating a sticky-sweet coating that’s impossible to resist. Trust me, this recipe will earn you rave reviews every time.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses just a few simple ingredients, but the flavor is anything but basic. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Bacon: Thick-cut bacon works best for this recipe as it holds its shape when twisted and gets perfectly crispy.
• Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup is ideal for this recipe. Avoid pancake syrup, as it won’t caramelize the same way.
• Brown Sugar: Adds depth to the sweetness and helps create that irresistible caramelized texture.
• Black Pepper: A pinch of freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle kick and enhances the smoky flavor of the bacon.
• Optional – Cayenne Pepper: For those who love a touch of heat, a sprinkle of cayenne takes these bacon twists to a whole new level.

These ingredients are easy to find, and you might already have most of them in your kitchen. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can swap traditional bacon for turkey bacon, but the texture and flavor will be slightly different.

Equipment Needed

You won’t need anything fancy to whip up these maple-candied bacon twists. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Baking Sheet: Make sure it’s large enough to fit all your bacon twists without overcrowding.
• Wire Rack: Place this on the baking sheet to allow the bacon to crisp up evenly.
• Parchment Paper: For easy clean-up and to prevent sticking.
• Basting Brush: Useful for evenly spreading maple syrup over the bacon.

If you don’t have a wire rack, you can place the bacon directly on the parchment paper, but you might need to flip it halfway through cooking to ensure even crisping. Trust me, investing in a good wire rack is worth it!

Preparation Method

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place a wire rack on top of the parchment paper.
2. Prepare the bacon: Take your thick-cut bacon slices and lay them flat on a clean surface. Twist each slice gently into a spiral shape and place them on the wire rack.
3. Brush with maple syrup: Using a basting brush, generously coat each bacon twist with pure maple syrup. Be sure to cover both sides for maximum flavor.
4. Add brown sugar: Sprinkle a light layer of brown sugar over the bacon twists. This will help create that irresistible caramelized coating.
5. Season with pepper: Add a pinch of freshly ground black pepper to each piece. If you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle a touch of cayenne for some heat.
6. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them after the 15-minute mark to avoid burning. They’re ready when the bacon is crispy and the maple glaze is golden and bubbling.
7. Cool slightly: Remove the bacon twists from the oven and let them cool for about 5 minutes. The glaze will firm up as they cool, making them easier to handle.

Pro Tip: If you notice the bacon twists are cooking unevenly, rotate the pan halfway through to ensure even heat distribution. And don’t forget to pat off any excess grease with a paper towel before serving!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

• Use thick-cut bacon: Thin bacon tends to burn easily and won’t hold its shape as well when twisted.
• Don’t skip the wire rack: It allows air to circulate around the bacon, ensuring it gets crispy on all sides.
• Keep an eye on the oven: Maple syrup can burn quickly, so watch closely during the last few minutes of baking.
• Customize the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet twist, use less brown sugar, or skip it altogether.
• Clean up easily: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to catch drips and make clean-up a breeze.

One time, I forgot to use parchment paper, and let’s just say my baking sheet wasn’t too happy about it! Lesson learned: always prep your pan properly.

Variations & Adaptations

• Spicy Bacon Twists: Add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper and smoked paprika for a smoky, spicy kick.
• Gluten-Free Option: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but double-check the labels on your bacon and maple syrup to ensure there are no hidden gluten ingredients.
• Vegan Version: Swap out the bacon for vegan bacon and use maple syrup and coconut sugar for a plant-based treat. Keep in mind the texture may vary.
• Seasonal Twist: Add a sprinkle of pumpkin spice around fall or a pinch of chili powder for a summer BBQ-inspired flavor.
• Sweet and Nutty: After brushing with maple syrup, sprinkle crushed pecans on the bacon for added texture and flavor.

My personal favorite variation is the spicy-sweet combo with a dash of cayenne pepper—it’s always a hit with friends who love bold flavors!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Maple-candied bacon twists are best served slightly warm or at room temperature. Arrange them on a platter for easy sharing, and watch them disappear in minutes! Pair them with scrambled eggs, pancakes, or even a spicy Bloody Mary for the ultimate brunch spread.

To store leftovers (if you have any!), place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to regain their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bacon chewy instead of crisp.

Pro Tip: If you’re making these ahead for a party, prepare them the day before and reheat them just before serving. The flavors will have an extra chance to meld together!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Each twist is approximately 120 calories, depending on the amount of sugar and syrup used. Here’s the breakdown:

• Protein: Bacon provides a good amount of protein, making these twists a satisfying snack.
• Healthy Sweetener: Maple syrup is a natural sweetener that’s rich in antioxidants.
• Low-Carb Option: Skip the brown sugar for a lower-carb version.
• Allergen-Friendly: Naturally gluten-free, but double-check labels to ensure safety.

While this recipe isn’t the healthiest on the block, it’s a great way to treat yourself or your loved ones in moderation.

Conclusion

Maple-candied bacon twists are the kind of recipe you’ll turn to again and again—whether you’re hosting brunch or just craving something indulgent. They’re simple to make, endlessly customizable, and guaranteed to impress anyone lucky enough to snag a piece.

I absolutely love this recipe because it’s a little fancy, a little indulgent, and a whole lot of fun. Plus, it’s the perfect balance of sweet and savory with a hint of smoky goodness. Make sure to give it a try, and don’t forget to share your creations in the comments below!

Now it’s your turn—grab some bacon, whip up a batch, and let me know how you made them your own. I can’t wait to hear about your delicious twists!

FAQs

Can I use turkey bacon instead?

Yes, turkey bacon works, but it may not crisp up as much as pork bacon. Adjust cooking time as needed.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Definitely! You can prepare the twists a day in advance and reheat them in the oven before serving.

What’s the best way to prevent the bacon from sticking?

Line your baking sheet with parchment paper and use a wire rack to elevate the bacon. This prevents sticking and ensures even cooking.

Can I use honey instead of maple syrup?

Yes, honey can be a substitute, but the flavor will differ slightly. It won’t caramelize as well as maple syrup, so keep an eye on it while baking.

How do I make these less sweet?

Simply skip the brown sugar or use less maple syrup. You can also add more black pepper or spices for a savory twist.

Print