Sweet and Spicy Bacon Twists: The Ultimate Viral Recipe for Crispy, Caramelized Perfection
Prepare your tastebuds for an extraordinary bacon experience! These Sweet and Spicy Bacon Twists are a revelation, offering a delightful symphony of flavors with every bite. Imagine perfectly caramelized brown sugar clinging to crispy, twisted bacon, complemented by a subtle, invigorating kick of cayenne pepper. This isn’t just a method; it’s a game-changer that has taken the internet by storm, and for good reason. Get ready to elevate your bacon game and discover one of the most exciting ways to cook bacon you’ll ever encounter!
Why This Sweet & Spicy Bacon Twists Recipe Works So Well
The moment we spotted the viral TikTok trend for twisted bacon, we knew we had to dive in. What makes this recipe an absolute winner, especially with our unique sweet and spicy twist? It’s a combination of clever technique and balanced flavors that creates an irresistible treat. While countless variations emerged from the trend, our version featuring the delightful duo of brown sugar and cayenne pepper truly stands out, promising to awaken your tastebuds in the best way possible.
This isn’t our first rodeo on the viral food train – last year, we successfully tackled the smoked queso dip and Dalgona coffee sensations, and we were never disappointed. The twisted bacon trend, however, offers a whole new level of culinary delight.
The magic lies in the simple yet profound combination of flavors and textures. As the bacon bakes, the brown sugar caramelizes into a glossy, sweet coating, while the cayenne pepper infuses a warm, subtle heat. Twisting each strip of bacon before baking achieves a unique texture that’s neither entirely chewy nor entirely crispy. Instead, you get a beautiful ‘tender-crisp’ quality, with perfectly rendered fat and edges that shatter delightfully, contrasting with a satisfying chew in the center. This innovative twisting method allows the bacon to cook more evenly, creating more surface area for that incredible sweet and spicy glaze. Once you take that first bite, you’ll immediately understand why sweet and spicy twisted bacon became such a viral sensation!
Key Ingredients for Perfect Bacon Twists
Before you get started, gather your ingredients. All specific measurements and detailed instructions are available in the printable recipe card at the very end of this comprehensive guide. Here’s a quick overview of what you’ll need to create these irresistible bacon twists:
Ingredient Information and Smart Substitutions
Let’s dive deeper into the core ingredients to ensure you achieve the best possible sweet and spicy bacon twists, along with some helpful substitution suggestions.
- BACON: For this particular recipe, we opted for thick-cut pork bacon. Its robust nature holds up beautifully to the twisting technique and provides a satisfying, meaty bite alongside the sweet caramelization. However, feel free to use almost any kind of bacon you prefer.
- Thick-Cut Bacon: Offers a more substantial texture and takes longer to cook, allowing more time for the sugar to caramelize and the fat to render. This is our preferred choice for its ideal chew-to-crisp ratio.
- Regular-Cut Bacon: Will also work wonderfully. It will cook slightly faster than thick-cut, so keep a closer eye on it, especially during the second half of baking.
- Thin-Cut Bacon: Expect significantly reduced cooking times, as it will crisp up much quicker. While it can be twisted, it might become very brittle.
- Turkey Bacon: If you’re looking for an alternative to pork, turkey bacon can be used, but be prepared for a different texture and flavor profile. Turkey bacon is leaner and tends to crisp up very quickly, so your cook time will definitely need to be reduced. Also, the fat content is lower, which might affect the caramelization of the brown sugar.
Regardless of your choice, remember that the thickness of your bacon directly impacts the baking time. Since our recipe is based on thick-cut bacon, adjust your oven time accordingly to prevent under or overcooking.
- BROWN SUGAR: This is the secret to the irresistible caramelization and sweet notes. We recommend light brown sugar for its balanced molasses flavor, which pairs perfectly with the savory bacon and spicy cayenne. You can use dark brown sugar for a deeper, more intense molasses flavor if you prefer.
- Substitution: While brown sugar is ideal for its moisture and molasses content, you could technically use granulated sugar for a different kind of crisp. However, it won’t yield the same rich, caramelized glaze. Maple syrup or honey can also be brushed on for a “candied bacon” effect, but apply them towards the end of baking to prevent burning.
- CAYENNE PEPPER: Provides that delightful kick of heat, creating the “sweet and spicy” dynamic. The amount listed in the recipe gives a moderate warmth that enhances, rather than overwhelms, the bacon’s flavor.
- Adjustment: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your personal heat preference. Start with less if you’re sensitive to spice, or add a bit more for an extra fiery twist.
- Substitution: For a different kind of heat, you could try a pinch of red pepper flakes, smoked paprika for a smoky warmth, or even a dash of black pepper for a milder zest. A tiny bit of chili powder can also work if you’re feeling adventurous.
How to Make These Irresistible Bacon Twists
These step-by-step photos and detailed instructions are here to help you visualize exactly how to make this incredibly popular recipe. For a concise, printable version of this recipe, complete with precise measurements and full instructions, simply Jump to the Recipe Card at the bottom of this post.
- Prepare Your Oven and Baking Tray: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature is crucial for crisping the bacon and caramelizing the sugar effectively. Next, line a large baking tray with a piece of parchment paper. The parchment paper serves multiple purposes: it prevents the bacon from sticking, makes cleanup a breeze, and helps catch any delicious caramelized drippings.
EXPERT TIP: Using parchment paper is highly recommended due to the sticky nature of caramelized brown sugar. If your parchment paper isn’t rated for 400°F, or if you simply don’t have any, you have alternatives. You can use aluminum foil (shiny side up for better heat reflection, which can aid crisping) or a silicone baking mat (Silpat) to line your baking tray. While leaving the tray unlined is an option, be warned: the caramelized sugar will likely harden and be extremely difficult to scrub off later, so a liner is always a wise choice!
- Twist and Arrange the Bacon: Take each individual slice of bacon and twist it as tightly as possible from end to end. The tighter the twist, the more structure the bacon will have and the more unique the texture will be after baking. Arrange the twisted bacon strips next to each other on the prepared baking tray. Ensure there is a small amount of space between each twist to allow for proper air circulation and even cooking. Overcrowding the tray can lead to steamed bacon rather than crispy bacon. You may need to use two baking trays depending on the quantity of bacon you are preparing.
- Season with Sweet and Spice: Generously sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the twisted bacon strips. Follow this with an even sprinkle of cayenne pepper. Aim for good coverage on all visible surfaces of the bacon. The sugar will melt and caramelize, forming a sticky, sweet coating, while the cayenne will infuse its heat throughout.
- Bake to Perfection: Place the baking tray in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes. After the initial baking period, carefully remove the tray from the oven. Using tongs, flip each bacon twist to ensure even cooking and crisping on all sides. Return the tray to the oven and continue baking for another 10-20 minutes, or until the bacon reaches your desired level of crispiness. Keep a close eye on it, especially towards the end, as sugar can burn quickly. The bacon should be beautifully golden brown and caramelized. Once done, carefully transfer the hot bacon twists to a wire rack set over a baking sheet (to catch excess grease) or a paper towel-lined plate to cool slightly. The twists will crisp up further as they cool.
Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips for Bacon Twists
Yes, absolutely! While the sweet and spicy combination is what makes these particular bacon twists so famous, you can certainly bake your twisted bacon as-is without any additional spices or seasonings. Bacon is inherently savory and delicious all on its own, and the twisting method still provides that unique texture. Simply follow the directions for twisting and baking at the specified temperature and time to make perfectly crispy, regular bacon twists. It’s a fantastic option if you prefer a classic bacon flavor or want to use them in savory dishes where the sweet and spicy notes might not fit.
As mentioned in the instructions, parchment paper is highly recommended for its non-stick properties and ease of cleanup, especially with caramelized sugar. If parchment paper isn’t available or suitable for the temperature, a silicone baking mat (like a Silpat) is an excellent reusable alternative. Heavy-duty aluminum foil can also work, but we find parchment paper or silicone mats provide the best non-stick surface and reduce the chances of the sugary bacon sticking during removal.
Achieving the perfect texture requires attention to detail. First, ensure your oven is preheated to the correct temperature (use an oven thermometer if unsure). Second, don’t overcrowd the baking sheet, as this can lead to steaming instead of crisping. Third, the two-stage baking process (baking, then flipping) is crucial for even cooking. Finally, the total baking time can vary based on your oven and bacon thickness, so always watch the bacon closely during the last 10-15 minutes. If it’s becoming too dark too quickly, reduce the temperature slightly or remove it sooner. For crispier results, you might extend the baking time by a few minutes, but be careful not to burn the sugar.
You can certainly prepare these bacon twists ahead of time. Once cooked and cooled completely, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For the best texture when reheating, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-8 minutes, or until warmed through and re-crisped. The microwave is not recommended for reheating, as it tends to make bacon soggy.
The beauty of twisted bacon is its versatility! Beyond sweet and spicy, consider these delicious variations:
- Maple Glazed: Brush with maple syrup instead of sprinkling brown sugar (or combine them) for a classic sweet and savory profile.
- Smoky BBQ: A sprinkle of your favorite BBQ rub can add a savory, smoky depth.
- Black Pepper Power: A generous crack of freshly ground black pepper creates a bold, peppery bacon.
- Garlic & Herb: A touch of garlic powder and dried herbs like thyme or rosemary can turn this into a more aromatic snack or appetizer.
- Hot Honey: Drizzle with hot honey after baking for a sticky, spicy, and sweet finish.
Experiment with different flavor profiles to find your favorite twist!
Creative Serving Suggestions for Bacon Twists
These versatile sweet and spicy bacon twists are truly delightful and can be enjoyed in countless ways. Their unique blend of flavors makes them suitable for almost any meal or occasion. Here are some ideas to inspire you:
- Breakfast & Brunch Star: Serve them alongside classic scrambled or fried eggs, pancakes, waffles, or French toast for an elevated breakfast experience. They’re also a fantastic addition to breakfast casseroles or a sophisticated brunch spread.
- Appetizer & Party Food: These twists are perfect finger food for gatherings! Arrange them on a platter for football games, holiday parties, or any social event. They disappear fast!
- Snack Attack: Whenever a craving for something sweet, savory, and a little bit spicy hits, these bacon twists are your answer. They’re a satisfying and flavorful snack on their own.
- Garnish & Enhancement:
- Chop them up and sprinkle over salads for an extra crunch and flavor boost.
- Use them as a gourmet garnish for a Bloody Mary or other savory cocktails.
- Crumble them over roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or green beans.
- Add them to a charcuterie board alongside cheeses, fruits, and crackers for a sweet and savory element that truly stands out.
- Holiday Twist: A dash of cinnamon added alongside the brown sugar and cayenne will infuse these twists with a warm, festive flavor, making them absolutely perfect for a holiday breakfast or brunch.
Remember, the beauty of this recipe is its adaptability. Feel free to play with the amounts of brown sugar and cayenne pepper to perfectly suit your individual tastes. This recipe provides an excellent starting point, yielding bacon with a fantastic balance of sweet and spicy flavors that’s sure to be a hit!
The original creator behind the viral TikTok bacon twists is Abby from House of Keto. You can find her inspiring video here!
More Irresistible Bacon Recipes to Try
If you’re a true bacon enthusiast and loved these sweet and spicy twists, you’ll be thrilled to explore more ways to incorporate this beloved ingredient into your cooking. Here are some of our other favorite bacon-centric recipes:
- Air Fryer Bacon: For perfectly crispy bacon with minimal mess.
- Sheet Pan Breakfast Pizza: A fantastic way to feed a crowd, loaded with breakfast favorites and, of course, bacon!
- Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies: The ultimate party appetizer, combining smoky sausage with savory bacon.
- Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole: A hearty and comforting meal that brings together two classic comfort foods.
- Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Asparagus: A simple yet elegant side dish or appetizer that’s quick to prepare.
- How to Cook Bacon in the Oven: A foolproof guide to achieving perfectly cooked bacon every time.
I love to bake and cook and share my kitchen experience with all of you! Remembering to come back each day can be tough, that’s why I offer a convenient newsletter every time a new recipe posts. Simply subscribe and start receiving your free daily recipes!
Bacon Twists
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
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Course:
Appetizer, Breakfast, Snack
Cuisine:
American
12
servings
50
minutes
324
Amanda Davis
Ingredients
-
2
pounds
thick-cut bacon -
2
Tablespoons
brown sugar -
2
teaspoons
cayenne pepper
Things You’ll Need
-
Baking sheet
Before You Begin
- You can drain off excess grease by transferring the cooked bacon to a wire rack placed over a baking tray or a paper towel-lined plate.
- Feel free to play with the amounts of brown sugar and cayenne pepper to suit your tastes! This recipe yields bacon with a good balance of sweet and spicy flavors.
- If you can’t find parchment paper that can withstand this temperature, you can use foil or a silpat baking mat to line your baking tray instead. You could also leave the tray unlined, but the caramelized sugar will likely be hard to scrub off.
Instructions
-
Preheat the oven to 400F (200°C). Line a large baking tray with a piece of parchment paper.
-
Twist each slice of bacon as tightly as possible and arrange them next to each other on the prepared tray.
-
Sprinkle the brown sugar and cayenne pepper evenly on top of the twisted bacon.
-
Bake for 20 minutes, then flip the bacon and bake for another 10-20 minutes or until crispy and caramelized.
Nutrition
Serving:
1
bacon twist
|
Calories:
324
cal
|
Carbohydrates:
3
g
|
Protein:
10
g
|
Fat:
30
g
|
Saturated Fat:
10
g
|
Polyunsaturated Fat:
5
g
|
Monounsaturated Fat:
13
g
|
Trans Fat:
0.1
g
|
Cholesterol:
50
mg
|
Sodium:
501
mg
|
Potassium:
159
mg
|
Fiber:
0.1
g
|
Sugar:
2
g
|
Vitamin A:
167
IU
|
Vitamin C:
0.3
mg
|
Calcium:
6
mg
|
Iron:
0.4
mg
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The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.