Spiced Bacon Twists

There's something magical about the intersection of sweet and savory, and these Spiced Bacon Twists capture that perfect balance in every crispy, caramelized bite. The transformation of humble bacon strips into spiraled works of art, kissed with cinnamon and brown sugar, creates an irresistible treat that elevates any gathering from ordinary to extraordinary.

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The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the dramatic transformation that occurs in the oven. As the bacon twists bake, the brown sugar caramelizes into a glossy, amber coating while the cinnamon infuses every crispy edge with warmth and spice. The optional touch of cayenne pepper adds just enough heat to awaken your palate without overwhelming the sweetness.

Ingredients

• Bacon: 12 slices thick-cut bacon
• Spiced Sugar Mixture: 1/3 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a touch of heat)

Instructions

Step 1

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil and set a wire rack on top.

Step 2

In a shallow dish, mix together the brown sugar, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper (if using).

Step 3

Dredge each bacon slice in the sugar mixture, coating both sides evenly.

Step 4

Twist each bacon slice several times to form a spiral, then lay them on the wire rack, spacing them apart.

Step 5

Sprinkle any leftover spiced sugar mixture over the twists.

Step 6

Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until bacon is crisp and caramelized, rotating the tray halfway through baking for even cooking.

Step 7

Let cool for 5 minutes to allow the caramelized coating to set before serving.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

The key to perfect Spiced Bacon Twists lies in using thick-cut bacon, which provides the ideal canvas for the sweet spice coating while maintaining structural integrity during the twisting process. When coating the bacon, ensure each slice is thoroughly covered on both sides for maximum flavor impact. The wire rack is essential as it allows hot air to circulate around each twist, ensuring even cooking and preventing the bottom from becoming soggy.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For extra heat, increase the cayenne pepper to taste, or substitute it with chipotle powder for a smoky kick. Try replacing brown sugar with maple sugar for a more complex sweetness, or add a pinch of nutmeg alongside the cinnamon for deeper warmth. For a festive twist, incorporate orange zest into the spice mixture, or experiment with Chinese five-spice for an exotic flavor profile.

Serviervorschläge

These versatile twists shine as cocktail snacks at parties, elegant brunch accompaniments, or indulgent afternoon treats. Serve them alongside scrambled eggs and fresh fruit for a complete brunch spread, or crumble them over salads for added texture and flavor. They also make excellent garnishes for bloody marys or pair beautifully with sharp cheeses on a charcuterie board.

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With their stunning visual appeal and addictive flavor combination, these Spiced Bacon Twists represent the perfect marriage of technique and taste. Whether you're hosting a sophisticated brunch or simply treating yourself to something special, these caramelized spirals of bacon bliss will become your go-to recipe for impressive yet effortless entertaining.

Common Questions

→ Can I prepare these bacon twists in advance?

Yes, you can coat and twist the bacon up to 4 hours ahead, then refrigerate on the baking sheet. Bake directly from the cold state, adding 2-3 minutes to the cooking time. For best results, assemble and bake fresh on the day of serving.

→ How do I prevent the sugar coating from burning?

Rotate the baking sheet halfway through cooking and monitor closely during the final minutes. Using a wire rack elevated above the baking sheet allows heat to circulate evenly. If edges brown too quickly, reduce oven temperature to 325°F and extend cooking time slightly.

→ What's the best way to store leftover twists?

Store cooled bacon twists in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 weeks. Reheat briefly in a 325°F oven to restore crispness before serving.

→ Can I use regular thin-cut bacon instead of thick-cut?

Thick-cut bacon works best as it maintains structural integrity during twisting and develops superior caramelization. Thin-cut bacon may become too fragile to twist and cook unevenly. If using thin-cut, handle gently and reduce cooking time by 5-10 minutes.

→ What other spices pair well with this coating?

Nutmeg, maple extract, or smoked paprika add interesting depth to the sugar mixture. Black pepper enhances savory notes, while a touch of vanilla extract adds subtle sweetness. Experiment with small amounts to find your preferred flavor combination.

→ Why is a wire rack important for this preparation?

A wire rack elevates the bacon above the baking sheet, allowing hot air to circulate underneath for even cooking and optimal crisping. This prevents the bottom from steaming and ensures the sugar coating caramelizes properly on all sides.