Sweet & Spicy Bacon: Your New Indulgent Breakfast Hero

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Kacper Recipes Team

There s something irresistible about the combination of sweet and spicy, and when it comes to breakfast, my Sweet & Spicy Bacon takes that flavor profile to a whole new level. I discovered this delight one lazy Sunday morning, intending to make a simple side for my pancakes. Instead, I ended up creating a masterpiece that has since become a staple at my brunch gatherings. The glossy, caramelized finish of the bacon glistens invitingly, while the blend of light brown sugar and crushed red pepper flakes delivers a sensational crunch with each bite.

This recipe not only transforms every breakfast into a special occasion but is also refreshingly easy to whip up. Imagine how your family and friends will react when they sink their teeth into crispy strips of bacon with that perfect balance of sweet and heat. Whether you serve it alongside eggs or toss it in a breakfast burrito, this Sweet & Spicy Bacon is bound to impress and I promise it ll be the highlight of your morning!

Why will you love Sweet & Spicy Bacon?

Irresistible Flavor: The perfect blend of sweetness and spice makes every bite a delightful experience.

Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients, this recipe comes together in no time, making it ideal for busy mornings.

Brunch Showstopper: Impress your guests with a dish that looks and tastes gourmet, making any breakfast or brunch feel special.

Versatile Pairing: This candied bacon pairs beautifully with eggs, pancakes, or even in a breakfast burrito for an added kick.

Crowd Favorite: Whether you re hosting a brunch or enjoying a cozy breakfast at home, this Sweet & Spicy Bacon is sure to be the highlight of the table!

Sweet & Spicy Bacon Ingredients

For the Sweet & Spicy Glaze

• Light Brown Sugar Provides exceptional sweetness and forms a deliciously caramelized glaze over the bacon: feel free to swap it with dark brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
• Ground Black Pepper Adds a hint of warmth and complexity; freshly ground delivers a more robust flavor.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes Adds that spicy kick; adjust the amount according to your heat preference for the perfect balance.

For the Bacon

• Bacon The hero ingredient! Opt for thick-cut bacon to enhance the texture and keep flavors intact while cooking.

Enjoy making this Sweet & Spicy Bacon that transforms your ordinary breakfast into something extraordinary!

How to Make Sweet & Spicy Bacon

1. Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400 °F (204 °C). This temperature is perfect for achieving that crispy, caramelized texture we all love.

2. Prep Baking Sheet: Line your baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup, then place a wire rack on top. This ensures the bacon cooks evenly!

3. Mix Sugar and Spices: In a medium bowl, combine the light brown sugar, ground black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes. Mix well, allowing the sweet and spicy aromas to fill your kitchen.

4. Arrange Bacon: Place the bacon slices in a single layer on the wire rack. Evenly sprinkle the sweet and spicy mixture over each slice, ensuring each piece is generously coated.

5. Bake: Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, turning the pan halfway through, or until the bacon is crispy and glazed to perfection.

6. Cool: Once done, remove the bacon from the oven and let it cool on the wire rack for about 5 minutes. This step helps it crisp up even more!

Optional: Garnish with a drizzle of maple syrup for an extra touch of sweetness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Variations & Substitutions for Sweet & Spicy Bacon

Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own with these delicious variations!

• Maple Syrup: Swap light brown sugar for maple syrup to add a rich, woodsy flavor that complements the bacon beautifully.

• Cayenne Pepper: For an extra kick, sprinkle in cayenne pepper to the sugar mixture; just a pinch can elevate the heat level delightfully.

• Honey: Replace brown sugar with honey for a natural sweetness and a sticky glaze that hugs the bacon perfectly.

• Cinnamon: Eliminate the spice entirely by using ground cinnamon instead of red pepper flakes for a warm and comforting sweet treat.

• Chipotle Powder: Introduce smoky flavors by substituting crushed red pepper flakes with chipotle powder, giving a unique twist to the spicy aspect.

• Almonds or Pecans: Add crushed nuts atop the bacon before baking for a wonderfully crunchy texture and a nutty finish.

• Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle sesame seeds over the bacon during the last 5 minutes of baking for a nutty crunch and a touch of elegance.

• Brown Sugar-Coconut Mix: Mix equal parts of light brown sugar and shredded coconut for a tropical twist that melds beautifully with the sweet and savory profile.

Storage Tips for Sweet & Spicy Bacon

Fridge: Store leftover Sweet & Spicy Bacon in an airtight container for up to 7 days. This helps preserve its flavor and crispy texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the bacon in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer it to a freezer bag, where it can last for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy crispy bacon again, reheat it in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350 °F (175 °C) for about 10 minutes. This method helps restore its delightful crunch.

Wrap for Freshness: If you re not planning to use it right away, wrap individual slices in parchment paper before freezing to make portioning easier later.

Make Ahead Options

These Sweet & Spicy Bacon strips are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can mix the sweet and spicy glaze (light brown sugar, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes) up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its flavor. Additionally, you can lay out the bacon slices on the wire rack and apply the glaze up to 3 days ahead of time, refrigerating it covered to keep it fresh. When you re ready to serve, simply bake the bacon at 400 °F for 25 to 30 minutes until crispy and glazed, ensuring a delightful treat with minimal effort. This way, you ll have mouthwatering Sweet & Spicy Bacon ready to impress your family or guests without the last-minute rush!

What to Serve with Sweet & Spicy Bacon?

Elevate your breakfast spread with delightful pairings that perfectly complement the sweet and spicy flavors of this indulgent treat.

• Fluffy Scrambled Eggs: Creamy and rich, scrambled eggs provide a soft counterpoint to the crispy bacon, creating a satisfying balance of textures.

• Buttermilk Pancakes: The fluffy sweetness of pancakes drenched in syrup pairs beautifully, offering a delightful contrast to the savory bacon.

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing burst of brightness and a hint of acidity to balance the richness of the bacon.

• Breakfast Burrito: Wrap your sweet & spicy bacon in a soft tortilla with eggs and veggies for a hearty, flavorsome start to the day. The combination is packed with textures and tastes!

• Crispy Hash Browns: The crispy, buttery texture of hash browns complements the bacon perfectly, ensuring every bite is full of flavor and crunch.

• Maple Coffee: A warm beverage like maple coffee enhances the sweet notes in the bacon while providing a cozy feeling to your morning routine.

Each pairing enhances not just the taste but the overall breakfast experience, promising smiles around the table!

Expert Tips for Sweet & Spicy Bacon

• Monitor Closely: Keep an eye on the bacon starting at 15 minutes; it s easy for it to burn due to the sugar glaze.
• Use Thick-Cut Bacon: Thick slices not only provide better texture but also hold up well against the sweetness of the glaze in this Sweet & Spicy Bacon.
• Let it Rest: Allow the bacon to cool for a few minutes on the rack; this helps it achieve maximum crispiness by letting the excess fat drain.
• Experiment with Spice: Adjust red pepper flakes based on your taste; start with less if you re unsure, as it s easier to add heat than to take it away.
• Cleanup Made Easy: Lining your baking sheet with foil not only makes cleanup a breeze but also helps catch drippings for less mess!

Sweet & Spicy Bacon Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best bacon for Sweet & Spicy Bacon?
Opt for thick-cut bacon when making Sweet & Spicy Bacon. Thick slices hold up better during cooking, allowing for a perfect balance between the sweet glaze and savory flavor. This cut also ensures a satisfying texture that won t become overly crispy or burnt as sugar caramelizes.

What s the best way to store leftover Sweet & Spicy Bacon?
Store any leftover Sweet & Spicy Bacon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 7 days. To keep it crispy, let it cool completely before sealing. For longer storage, you can freeze the bacon. Lay the cooked bacon in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer it to a freezer bag to last for up to 3 months.

Can I reheat Sweet & Spicy Bacon?
Absolutely! To reheat, simply place the bacon in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, or pop it in the oven at 350 °F (175 °C) for 10 minutes until it s crispy again. Avoid the microwave, as it may make the bacon chewy rather than crispy.

What if I want to adjust the spice level?
No problem! Start with less crushed red pepper flakes if you re unsure about the heat. You can always increase the amount based on your preference. For a sweeter alternative, try cinnamon instead of red pepper flakes for a delightful twist that s less spicy but still delicious.

How can I tell if my Sweet & Spicy Bacon is done?
Monitor your bacon closely during the last few minutes of baking around the 25-minute mark. It should be a deep golden brown and slightly glossy but not burnt. The texture should be crispy yet not overly hard; if using thin bacon, check around the 15-minute mark to prevent overcooking.

Is Sweet & Spicy Bacon safe for my pets?
While bacon can be a tasty treat, it s not advisable to share it with pets, especially high in sugar and spices. The red pepper flakes can be harmful to dogs and cats, and the fat content might upset their stomachs. Always consult with your vet before offering any human food to your furry friends.