Bourbon Bacon Brittle
Ingredients
- For the Candied Bacon
- 12 strips thick cut bacon
- 3 tablespoons bourbon
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- For the Brittle
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons bourbon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- sea salt for sprinkling
Directions
- 1
For the Candied Bacon:
- 2
Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
- 3
Lay bacon strips on a foil lined baking sheet. Brush bacon with bourbon and sprinkle with brown sugar on both sides.
- 4
Bake for 13-15 minutes, until it starts to caramelize and becomes crispy.
- 5
Chop the bacon with a knife into small bite size pieces.
- 6
For the Brittle:
- 7
Spread the pecans on a baking sheet and lightly toast them in the oven at 400 degrees for 7 minutes.
- 8
Line a baking sheet with a silpat mat or parchment paper.
- 9
Make sure you have all the rest of your ingredients measured and ready to pour in the brittle when it gets to the candy stage. You can mix the vanilla and bourbon and the bacon and pecans together to make it easier.
- 10
In a medium sauce pan, combine the sugar, corn syrup and water over medium heat. Stir constantly until the sugar dissolves and the mixture starts to boil.
- 11
Increase the heat to high and cook, without stirring, until it reaches 290°F using a candy thermometer. I recommend using one, but if you don't have one, boil until it turns a golden amber color. Once it reaches this temp add the bourbon, bacon and pecans. Mix and allow mixture to get to 310°F. Immediately remove from heat.
- 12
Quickly stir in butter, vanilla, and baking soda.
- 13
Pour mixture onto the prepared baking sheet as quickly and thinly as possible. Use a wooden spoon to spread it if necessary.
- 14
Sprinkle with sea salt right away and cool for at least 20 minutes. Once it set, break into pieces and enjoy!
- 15
Can be stored in an air tight container for up to a week.
Bourbon Bacon Brittle
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About this Recipe
Craving a snack that hits all the right notes—sweet, salty, and wonderfully crunchy? This Bourbon Bacon Brittle delivers an unforgettable flavor experience that’s equally delightful on its own or as a surprising addition to your favorite desserts.
Why This Recipe Works The magic truly happens in the thoughtful combination of ingredients. This recipe ingeniously merges the smoky, savory depth of thick cut bacon with the rich warmth of bourbon, all encased in a classic, crisp brittle. The subtle hint of vanilla and a sprinkle of sea salt elevate the complexity, making each bite an adventure.
What to Expect You'll be treated to a delightful symphony of textures and tastes. Imagine the crisp, caramelized snap of brittle giving way to savory pieces of candied bacon, perfectly balanced with the nutty crunch of pecans. The bourbon contributes a sophisticated warmth without being overpowering, mingling beautifully with the sweet brown sugar and the salty pop from the sea salt. This isn't just brittle; it's a gourmet confection that excites the palate with its harmonious blend of contrasting flavors.
Customization & Variations While thick cut bacon is specified for its hearty texture, you could experiment with other cuts if desired, though cooking times might vary. For a different nutty profile, consider swapping pecans for walnuts or almonds. If you're looking to modify the bourbon flavor, a high-quality vanilla extract could offer a non-alcoholic alternative, though it would change the overall character of the brittle. The beauty of this recipe lies in its balanced profile, so any changes should be made thoughtfully.
Serving & Context This Bourbon Bacon Brittle is perfect for holiday gifts, a sophisticated party snack, or crumbled over vanilla ice cream for an extraordinary dessert. It also makes an amazing topping for popcorn, adding a gourmet twist to a simple treat.