Candied bacon – the name alone is enough to make your mouth water. The combination of sweet and salty flavors, with a hint of spice, is simply irresistible.
But what do you serve with this delectable treat? The possibilities are endless! Whether you’re looking for a brunch dish, a savory salad topping, or a unique dessert idea, candied bacon can add a touch of indulgence to any meal.
In this article, we’ll explore some creative ways to serve and enjoy this Million Dollar Bacon. So get ready to tantalize your taste buds and impress your guests with these delicious ideas!
What To Serve With Candied Bacon?
There are so many ways to serve candied bacon, and it all depends on your personal taste and the occasion. Here are some ideas to get you started:
1. Brunch: Candied bacon is the perfect addition to any brunch spread. Serve it alongside French toast, pancakes, or waffles for a sweet and savory combination. You can also chop it up and sprinkle it over avocado toast or breakfast burritos for an extra burst of flavor.
2. Salad: Candied bacon makes a great salad topping. Try it on a spinach salad with strawberries and goat cheese, or on a classic Caesar salad with croutons and Parmesan cheese. The sweet and salty flavors of the bacon will complement the fresh greens perfectly.
3. Sandwiches: Candied bacon can take your sandwich game to the next level. Use it as a topping for burgers, BLTs, or grilled cheese sandwiches. The caramelized sugar and spices will add a unique twist to your favorite sandwich.
4. Appetizers: Serve candied bacon as an appetizer at your next party. Cut it into bite-sized pieces and skewer them with cherry tomatoes or pineapple chunks for a fun and easy party snack. You can also serve it in mason jars or other interesting containers for a snazzy addition to any party table.
5. Dessert: Believe it or not, candied bacon can even be used in desserts! Try adding chopped candied bacon to vanilla ice cream with a drizzle of chocolate syrup for a distinctly different dessert. You can also dip cooked bacon in melted chocolate for a tasty holiday gift.
Candied Bacon And Brunch: A Match Made In Heaven
If you’re looking to impress your brunch guests, candied bacon is the perfect addition to your menu. Whether you’re serving French toast, pancakes, or waffles, candied bacon will take your brunch game to the next level. The combination of sweet and salty flavors is a match made in heaven and will leave your guests wanting more.
To make the best candied bacon, all you need is pure maple syrup, light muscovado sugar, and ground cinnamon. Mix the sugar and cinnamon together and coat your bacon in the mixture on both sides. Place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake it in the oven until it’s golden brown and slightly crispy. The result is fool-proof and absolutely delicious.
Pair candied bacon with avocado toast or breakfast burritos for an extra burst of flavor. You can also serve it as a topping for eggs Benedict or add it to a breakfast sandwich for a truly indulgent meal. The possibilities are endless!
If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding candied bacon to your favorite brunch cocktail. A bacon Bloody Mary or a maple bacon mimosa will definitely impress your guests and add a unique twist to your brunch experience.
Savory Salad Toppings: Adding Crunch And Flavor With Candied Bacon
When it comes to adding crunch and flavor to your salad, candied bacon is a top choice. The combination of sweet and savory flavors in candied bacon can take your salad from ordinary to extraordinary. Here are some ideas for using candied bacon as a savory salad topping:
1. Classic Cobb Salad: Add chopped candied bacon to a classic Cobb salad for an extra burst of flavor. The bacon will complement the avocado, tomato, and blue cheese perfectly.
2. Spinach Salad: Candied bacon is a great addition to a spinach salad with sliced strawberries and crumbled goat cheese. The sweet and salty flavors of the bacon will balance out the bitterness of the spinach.
3. Caesar Salad: Add chopped candied bacon to a classic Caesar salad for an unexpected twist. The bacon will add a crispy texture and a sweet and savory flavor to the salad.
4. Grilled Chicken Salad: Top a grilled chicken salad with candied bacon for a delicious combination of flavors. The bacon will add a smoky flavor that pairs well with the grilled chicken.
5. Fruit Salad: Add chopped candied bacon to a fruit salad for a unique twist on a classic dish. The bacon will add a salty-sweet flavor that complements the sweetness of the fruit.
Candied Bacon In Main Dishes: Elevating Classic Recipes
Candied bacon is not just a side dish or a snack; it can also be a star ingredient in main dishes. Here are some classic recipes that you can elevate with the addition of candied bacon:
1. Mac and Cheese: Add some candied bacon crumbles to your favorite mac and cheese recipe for a sweet and salty twist. The crispy texture of the bacon will add a nice crunch to the creamy dish.
2. Meatloaf: Mix chopped candied bacon into your meatloaf mixture for a unique flavor profile. The sweetness of the bacon will balance out the savory meat, and the caramelized bits will add a nice texture to each bite.
3. Chicken: Wrap chicken breasts in candied bacon before baking or grilling for a decadent main dish. The bacon will keep the chicken moist and add an extra layer of flavor to each bite.
4. Pizza: Top your favorite pizza with candied bacon slices for a gourmet twist on a classic favorite. The sweetness of the bacon will complement the salty cheese and savory sauce, creating a flavor explosion in every bite.
5. Tacos: Add some candied bacon crumbles to your tacos for a unique twist on this Mexican classic. The sweet and salty flavors of the bacon will complement the spicy salsa and fresh toppings, creating a delicious fusion of flavors.
Dessert Delights: Sweet Treats With Candied Bacon As The Star Ingredient
If you have a sweet tooth and love bacon, then you’ll definitely want to try out some of these dessert ideas featuring candied bacon!
1. Maple Bacon Cupcakes: This delicious cupcake recipe features a vanilla bourbon buttercream frosting and a maple brown sugar candied bacon crunch topping. The combination of sweet and salty flavors is sure to satisfy any dessert cravings.
2. Bacon Crack: This highly addictive treat is a buttery, salty-sweet delight that’s perfect for snacking on around a campfire or as a quick dessert. The recipe involves sugaring raw bacon and baking it until crispy, and you can customize it with your favorite seasonings.
3. Bacon Candy: If you’re looking for a unique and tasty dessert idea, try making bacon candy. The basic recipe involves sugaring thick-cut bacon and baking it until crispy, but you can also add black pepper and crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick. Serve it on its own or use it as a garnish for other desserts.
Beverage Pairings: Finding The Perfect Drink To Complement Candied Bacon
Candied bacon is a unique and flavorful treat that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a variety of drinks. Here are some suggestions for finding the perfect beverage to complement candied bacon:
1. Beer: The salty and sweet flavors of candied bacon pair well with a variety of beers. Try pairing it with a brown ale, stout, wheat beer, or even an IPA. The richness of the bacon will be balanced out by the bitterness of the beer, creating a harmonious flavor combination.
2. Wine: Wine can also be a great choice when serving candied bacon. Choose a red wine with medium tannins, such as Pinot Noir or Syrah, to complement the sweetness of the bacon. If you prefer white wine, Chardonnay or Beaujolais can also be good options.
3. Cocktails: For those who prefer cocktails, there are many options that pair well with candied bacon. A bourbon-based Old Fashioned or Manhattan can balance out the sweetness of the bacon with its smoky flavor. A margarita made with fresh lime juice and agave nectar can also be a great choice.
4. Non-alcoholic beverages: If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic option, try pairing candied bacon with lemonade or iced tea. The acidity of these drinks can help cut through the richness of the bacon and refresh your palate.
When choosing a beverage to pair with candied bacon, it’s important to consider the flavors and textures of both the drink and the food. Experiment with different combinations to find your perfect match and enjoy the unique and delicious flavors that candied bacon has to offer.
