Candied Bacon Recipe Pig Candy Delight

There's nothing quite like the satisfying crunch and savory flavor of bacon, but what if you could elevate this beloved breakfast staple to a whole new level? Enter Pig Candy, a delightful treat that combines the rich taste of bacon with the sweetness of caramelized sugar. This easy-to-follow recipe will surely impress your friends and family, and it’s just one of those dishes that keeps everyone coming back for more!

In this article, we'll explore the ins and outs of making the perfect candied bacon, also known as Pig Candy, discuss variations, and even share tips for making it in a smoker. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds and learn how to create this irresistible delight!

What is Pig Candy?

Pig Candy is a popular Southern delicacy that transforms ordinary bacon into a sweet and sticky indulgence. The process involves coating thick slices of bacon with a mixture of brown sugar and spices, then cooking them until they achieve a caramelized, candy-like texture. The resulting flavor is a delightful blend of sweet and savory that can be enjoyed as a snack, an appetizer, or a unique addition to dishes.

Old fashioned candied bacon or pig candy recipe

Creating your own Pig Candy at home is a straightforward process that requires just a few ingredients. Here’s what you'll need:

• 3 lbs of thick sliced smoked bacon (Wright brand is recommended)
• ½ cup of brown sugar
• ¼ cup of your favorite BBQ rub
• ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper (optional for a kick)

To make the cooking process easier and less messy, use a cookie sheet lined with aluminum foil and place a cooling rack on top. Spray the cooling rack with cooking spray to prevent the bacon from sticking.

Step-by-step instructions for making pig candy

Follow these simple steps to create your own irresistible Pig Candy:

1. Preheat your smoker or oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, combine brown sugar, BBQ rub, and cayenne pepper. Mix well.
3. Lay the bacon strips on the cooling rack and generously coat both sides with the sugary mixture.
4. Place the pan on the center rack of your smoker or oven.
5. Cook for approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour, flipping the bacon halfway through for even cooking.
6. Once done, the bacon should be pliable and sticky, not crispy.
7. Allow the bacon to cool on the rack for 30 minutes so that the sugar coating can harden slightly.

Beware: this delicious treat tends to disappear quickly, so you may want to hide a few pieces for later!

Variations on the classic recipe

While the classic Pig Candy recipe is delicious on its own, there are numerous variations you can try to elevate the flavor even further:

• Maple syrup version: Drizzle maple syrup over the bacon before applying the sugar mixture for a rich, sweet flavor.
• Spicy twist: Add extra cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce to the sugar mixture for a spicy kick.
• Nuts and seeds: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the bacon before baking for added crunch and flavor.
• Chocolate drizzle: After cooling, drizzle melted chocolate over the bacon for an indulgent treat.

Pig candy in a smoker

If you prefer a smoky flavor, making Pig Candy in a smoker is an excellent option. The process is similar to cooking in an oven but adds an extra layer of depth to the flavor:

• Use wood chips such as hickory or cherry for added flavor.
• Maintain a consistent temperature of around 250°F (121°C) for slow smoking.
• Monitor the bacon closely, as smoking may take longer than baking.

Pig candy crackers: a creative twist

If you want to take your Pig Candy experience to the next level, consider making pig candy crackers. This unique recipe combines the flavors of candied bacon with savory crackers, making for a delightful appetizer or snack:

• Start with your favorite buttery crackers.
• Prepare the Pig Candy recipe and chop the bacon into small pieces.
• Spread a thin layer of cream cheese on each cracker and top with chopped Pig Candy.
• Drizzle with honey or a balsamic reduction for added flavor.

Tips for the best candied bacon

To maximize your chances of success when making Pig Candy, consider the following tips:

• Use thick-cut bacon: Thin bacon can become overly crispy and may not hold up well with the sugar coating.
• Don’t rush the cooling process: Allowing the bacon to cool completely will help the sugar coating harden, creating the perfect texture.
• Experiment with flavors: Don’t be afraid to try different spices or sweeteners to customize the flavor to your liking.

By following these guidelines and variations, you can create a memorable version of Pig Candy that will leave your guests begging for the recipe!

Have a question about this recipe?

Connect with us in our HowToBBQRight Facebook group for recipe help, to share your pictures, giveaways, and more!

If you want to know other articles similar to Candied Bacon Recipe Pig Candy Delight you can visit the category BBQ RECIPES.