Candied Maple Bacon Twists

These sweet, smoky, and slightly spicy bacon twists are a total crowd-pleaser. Thick-cut bacon is twisted and brushed with a maple-brown sugar glaze, then baked until caramelized and crisp. Perfect for brunch boards, cocktail parties, or anytime you want an irresistible savory-sweet bite.

Ingredients

• 8 slices thick-cut bacon

• 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup (not pancake syrup)

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar

• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for depth)

• ¼ teaspoon mustard powder (optional, for tang)

• ½ teaspoon apple cider vinegar (optional, balances sweetness)

• Pinch of cayenne or black pepper (optional, for heat)

Directions

1. Preheat Oven
   Heat oven to 375°F (190°C).
   Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
   If you have a wire rack, place it on top for extra crisping.

2. Twist the Bacon
   Hold both ends of each bacon slice and twist tightly.
   Lay them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between.

3. Mix the Glaze
   In a small bowl, combine the maple syrup, brown sugar, and any optional spices or vinegar.
   Stir into a thick paste or syrupy mixture.

4. Brush the Bacon
   Brush or spoon the glaze generously over each twist.
   Flip and coat both sides.

5. Bake
   Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
   Watch closely toward the end, as sugar can burn quickly.
   Bacon should be deep golden, crisp, and shiny.

6. Cool and Serve
   Let cool 2 to 3 minutes to firm up.
   Serve standing upright in a glass or fanned out on a platter.

Tips and Recommendations

• Make it spicier by adding extra cayenne or a drizzle of hot honey before serving.

• For presentation, serve in a tall glass or jar so the twists stand up and create an eye-catching display on a brunch table.

• Best eaten the same day, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for one day. Recrisp in a 325°F oven for five minutes.