Bourbon Brown Sugar Slab Bacon Bites Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

For a more refined presentation, let the glazed bacon bites rest on a wire rack for a minute or two before skewering. This allows the excess glaze to drip off and ensures the coating sets firmly onto the bacon, creating a cleaner look and a more pleasant mouthfeel when served to your guests.

The choice of bourbon can significantly influence the final flavor. A standard, mid-range bourbon with notes of vanilla and oak works best.

Avoid using overly expensive bottles, as the nuances will be masked by the intensity of the brown sugar and maple syrup. Ensure the bourbon is at room temperature before adding to the hot pan to avoid excessive splattering.

Variations

• Spicy Bourbon Bacon: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the glaze mixture for a spicy heat that complements the sweetness of the brown sugar and the smokiness of the bacon.
• Bourbon Apple Bites: Toss in a handful of finely diced tart apples during the final two minutes of glazing to add a crisp, refreshing fruit element that pairs perfectly with the smoky bacon.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving to restore the texture.

Freezer

Freezing is not recommended as it will compromise the texture of the bacon and the consistency of the glaze.

Reheat

Reheat in a skillet over low heat until warm and sticky, or in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5 minutes.

If you have leftovers, allow them to cool at room temperature for no more than 2 hours, then place them in an airtight container and refrigerate.

Do not store them while they are still warm, as this will introduce moisture into the container and cause the bacon to lose its crisp texture. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days.

You can prepare the glaze and cut the bacon up to 24 hours in advance. Store the bacon in a sealed container in the refrigerator and keep the glaze in a separate jar. When ready to serve, simply combine them in the skillet and proceed with the rendering and glazing steps as directed for a fresh, hot appetizer.

Serving ideas

Serve these bacon bites immediately while they are still warm and the glaze is at its stickiest. Arrange them on a platter with the cocktail picks already inserted to make them easy for guests to grab.

Provide small napkins, as the glaze can be quite sticky, and consider offering a side of toothpicks for convenience.

Pair these bites with a crisp, acidic drink to balance the richness of the bacon and the sweetness of the glaze. A dry sparkling wine or a light, hoppy beer works exceptionally well to cut through the intense flavor profile.

The contrast between the smoky, sweet bacon and a refreshing beverage creates a sophisticated pairing for any appetizer course.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Bourbon Brown Sugar Slab Bacon Bites

Prep 10 minCook 25 minRest 5 minTotal 40 minServes 8

Ingredients

• 2 lb thick-cut slab bacon, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1/3 cup dark brown sugar
• 1/4 cup Kentucky bourbon
• 2 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 tbsp coarse black pepper

Instructions

1. Cut the slab bacon into uniform 1-inch cubes using a sharp chef's knife. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the dark brown sugar, Kentucky bourbon, maple syrup, and coarse black pepper until the sugar is mostly dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
2. Place the bacon cubes into a cold cast-iron skillet and turn the heat to medium-high to reach 375°F (190°C). Render the bacon for 12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the cubes are crispy and golden brown on all sides. Carefully drain the excess rendered fat from the skillet, leaving only the crispy bacon bites behind. Ensure the bacon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and let it rest for at least 3 minutes.
3. Pour the bourbon glaze over the crispy bacon cubes in the skillet. Reduce the temperature to 325°F (163°C) and simmer, stirring constantly, until the liquid reduces into a thick, sticky lacquer that coats each piece perfectly. Remove from heat and serve with cocktail picks.

Contains: sulfites

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

280

Protein

12 g

Carbohydrates

14 g

Fat

20 g

Fiber

0.1 g

Sugar

13 g

Sodium

450 mg

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.