Rosemary and Fig Candied Bacon: The Ultimate Sweet & Savory Treat for Any Occasion
Prepare to have your taste buds utterly captivated! While classic bacon is undeniably delicious on its own, this Rosemary and Fig Candied Bacon takes it to an entirely new level. Imagine succulent, crispy bacon strips coated in a luscious, sweet fig jam, infused with the earthy aroma of fresh rosemary, and perfectly baked to caramelized perfection in the oven. The result is a symphony of sweet, savory, and outrageously crispy textures that will undoubtedly convert even the most staunch bacon purists. This isn’t just bacon; it’s an experience, a gourmet delight that promises to elevate any meal or snack.
I’ll readily admit, this particular recipe was born from a delightful “happy accident.” With a bounty of leftover fresh rosemary on hand, my mind wandered to a previous creation, a beloved butter board where rosemary and figs harmonized beautifully. A spark ignited: if that combination worked wonders on butter, why not with bacon? The thought of that sweet, savory, and herbaceous blend enveloping crispy bacon seemed too good to pass up. I confess, I hate to boast, but oh boy, was I absolutely right! The moment I tasted it, I knew I had stumbled upon something truly special.
This isn’t just everyday breakfast bacon, my friends. This is brunch-worthy bacon, the kind that graces menus in upscale cafes, leaving you wondering, “Why have I never thought of this ingenious combination before?” It’s guaranteed to “cure” (see what I did there with a little bacon pun?) any lingering breakfast blues, turning an ordinary morning into a culinary celebration. It’s perfect for impressing guests, adding a touch of elegance to your weekend brunch, or simply indulging in a ridiculously delicious treat.
What Exactly is Candied Bacon?
Candied bacon, affectionately known by many names such as pig candy, bacon crack, million dollar bacon, or millionaire’s bacon, is a truly addictive creation. At its core, it’s bacon that’s generously coated in a sweet glaze, typically brown sugar or maple syrup, and then baked in the oven. This baking process slowly caramelizes the sugar onto the bacon, transforming each strip into a magical blend of crispy texture and irresistible sweetness, often with a hint of saltiness from the bacon itself. It’s a delightful interplay of textures and flavors that makes it utterly irresistible.
My version offers a sophisticated and unique twist. Instead of conventional brown sugar, I opt for rich, sweet fig jam. This substitution infuses the bacon with a complex fruity sweetness and a subtle depth that pairs exquisitely with the smoky, salty notes of the bacon and the earthy freshness of rosemary. It’s a simple change that makes a world of difference, elevating this already beloved treat to gourmet status.
Why You’ll Adore This Rosemary and Fig Candied Bacon
There are countless reasons why this rosemary and fig candied bacon will become a staple in your culinary repertoire:
- Unforgettable Flavor Profile: The harmonious blend of sweet fig, fragrant rosemary, and savory bacon creates a unique and irresistible taste. It’s a balance that appeals to both sweet and savory cravings.
- Addictively Crispy Texture: Oven-baking bacon on a wire rack ensures maximum crispiness, making every bite a satisfying crunch. The caramelized jam adds an extra layer of delightful chewiness.
- Gourmet Appeal, Effortless Execution: Despite its sophisticated flavor, this recipe is incredibly simple, requiring just three main ingredients and minimal hands-on time. It’s perfect for busy mornings or elegant entertaining.
- Versatile Delight: This candied bacon isn’t just for breakfast! It makes an incredible appetizer, a fantastic addition to various dishes, or a stand-alone snack that disappears almost as quickly as it’s made.
- Impress Your Guests: Serve this at your next brunch or gathering, and watch as your guests rave about this unique and delicious treat. It’s a true conversation starter.
Simple Ingredients for Gourmet Flavor
You’ll be amazed that such an exquisite caramelized bacon dish requires only a handful of readily available ingredients. Simplicity truly meets sophistication here.
- Thick-Cut Bacon: For this recipe, I truly believe in using a good quality, thick-cut bacon. As the saying goes, “I like big bacon and I cannot lie!” Thick-cut strips are ideal because they can wonderfully soak up and hold onto all that delicious fig jam, creating a richer, more substantial bite. Furthermore, the extra thickness helps the bacon cook up beautifully crispy without becoming overly brittle. Avoid thin-cut bacon as it might burn too quickly.
- Fig Jam or Preserves: This is the star sweetener that sets this recipe apart. Use your absolute favorite fig jam or preserves. The quality of your jam will significantly impact the final flavor. Don’t worry if it’s seeded; the tiny seeds add a lovely textural element. There are many fantastic brands available; I personally adore this one from Divina for its rich, authentic fig taste.
- Fresh Rosemary: This ingredient is non-negotiable for this recipe. You absolutely need fresh rosemary; dried just won’t deliver the same vibrant, aromatic punch that stands up so beautifully to the sweet fig preserves and rich bacon. Finely dicing it ensures an even distribution of flavor in every bite.
- Fresh Ground Black Pepper (Optional, but Recommended): A few generous grinds of fresh black pepper add an extra layer of subtle spice and complexity. It’s a small addition that makes a noticeable difference, enhancing the overall sweet and savory balance.
For precise measurements, please refer to the detailed recipe card below.
Essential Equipment for Perfect Candied Bacon
Having the right tools will make your candied bacon journey smooth and successful, ensuring that coveted crispy texture and easy cleanup:
- Baking Pan: A sturdy, rimmed baking sheet is essential to catch any drips and ensure even cooking.
- Wire Rack: This is a crucial piece of equipment. Placing your bacon on a wire rack set inside the baking pan allows air to circulate around all sides of the bacon strips. This circulation is key to achieving that perfectly crispy, caramelized texture on both the top and bottom. If you have a broiler pan, that would work wonderfully as it typically comes with a built-in rack.
- Aluminum Foil or Parchment Paper: Lining your baking pan (under the wire rack) with either aluminum foil or parchment paper is a cleanup savior. The bacon fat and caramelized jam will drip onto the lining instead of baking onto your pan, making post-cooking tidying a breeze.
- Pastry Brush or Spoon: For evenly spreading the fig jam onto each strip of bacon.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Create Culinary Magic
Creating this gourmet candied bacon is incredibly straightforward. Follow these simple steps for perfectly sweet, savory, and crispy results every time:
- Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures a consistent cooking temperature from the start. Line a large, rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper. This step is vital for significantly easier cleanup later. Then, place a wire rack directly over the lined baking sheet. An aluminum cookie rack works perfectly for this purpose.
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Step 1: Laying out raw bacon on the wire rack. Carefully arrange the raw bacon strips in a single layer on top of the wire rack. It’s important not to overlap the strips, as this will prevent them from crisping evenly.
Step 2: Brushing with fig jam and sprinkling fresh rosemary. Generously brush each bacon strip with the fig jam. Don’t be shy – a good coating ensures maximum caramelization and flavor. Then, evenly sprinkle the finely diced fresh rosemary over each jam-coated slice. If you’re using fresh ground pepper, add a few grinds over the top now.
- Place the baking sheet with the bacon into your preheated oven. Bake for approximately 35-45 minutes, or until the bacon is beautifully caramelized, golden brown, and wonderfully crispy around the edges. Keep a close eye on it, especially towards the end, as the jam can burn quickly due to its sugar content. Different ovens can vary, so visual cues are key.
- Once baked to perfection, carefully remove the bacon from the oven. This next step is crucial for ultimate crispiness: let the candied bacon rest on the wire rack for another 5-7 minutes after taking it out of the oven. As it cools, it will continue to crisp up and the caramelized jam will set. Serve immediately and enjoy the irresistible sweet and savory magic!
💡Top Tips for the Best Candied Bacon
For optimal crispiness, patience is key! Always let the candied bacon cool for 5-7 minutes on the wire rack after removing it from the oven. This allows the bacon to finish crisping up and the caramelized jam to set properly. Rushing this step might result in slightly chewier bacon.
- Don’t Crowd the Pan: Ensure there’s enough space between each strip of bacon for even cooking and crisping. If necessary, use two baking sheets.
- Watch Carefully: Due to the sugar in the fig jam, the bacon can go from perfectly caramelized to burnt very quickly. Stay nearby and check frequently during the last 10-15 minutes of baking.
- Grease the Rack (Optional): If you’re concerned about sticking, lightly spray your wire rack with a non-stick cooking spray before placing the bacon on it, although usually, the bacon fat prevents excessive sticking.
- Uniform Slices: Try to use bacon slices of similar thickness for consistent cooking times.
- Flip for Evenness (Advanced): Some chefs prefer to flip the bacon halfway through cooking. If you do this, be gentle, and re-brush with a little more jam if needed. However, baking on a wire rack usually negates the need for flipping.
How to Serve This Rosemary Candied Bacon
While this fancy bacon is absolutely divine eaten all on its own (and trust me, you’ll be tempted to devour it straight from the rack!), its unique flavor profile makes it an incredibly versatile ingredient. Here are some fantastic ways to incorporate this sweet and savory delight into your meals:
- As a Standalone Snack: The simplest and often most satisfying way! Offer it on a platter for an easy, impressive appetizer.
- Elevate Sandwiches: Transform your everyday into gourmet. Add it to classic breakfast sandwiches, a BLT for a sweet kick, or even on avocado toast for an unexpected twist. Imagine it on a grilled cheese!
- Sprinkle on Salads: Crumble this candied bacon over your favorite salads, such as a Cobb salad or a spinach salad with goat cheese and walnuts. It adds a crunchy, sweet-savory punch.
- Taco Tuesday Reinvented: Chop it up and use it as a surprisingly delicious topping for savory tacos, especially those with a hint of sweetness like pork or chicken tacos.
- Garnish Soups: A sprinkle of crumbled candied bacon adds texture, flavor, and an elegant touch to creamy soups, like a roasted butternut squash soup or a velvety potato soup. It’s especially good with this Roasted Butternut Squash Soup with Crispy Sage.
- Amp Up Dips: Game night just got an upgrade! Mix finely chopped candied bacon into cheesy dips, a creamy onion dip, or even a spicy guacamole for an extra layer of flavor and crunch.
- The Ultimate Bacon Burger: Forget plain bacon on your burger. This candied version adds a gourmet touch, creating an explosion of flavors. Trust me, the cheese should not stand alone without this bacon!
- A Bloody Mary Garnish: Yes, you read that right! Garnish your next Bloody Mary with a strip of rosemary and fig candied bacon for a truly decadent and unforgettable cocktail experience. It’s sweet, savory, and boozy perfection.
- Cheese Boards and Charcuterie: This candied bacon is an absolute showstopper on any cheese or charcuterie board, pairing beautifully with sharp cheeses, fresh fruits, and crusty bread.
Storing and Reheating Your Candied Bacon
To keep your delicious candied bacon fresh and ready for enjoyment, proper storage is key. Once completely cooled, store the rosemary and fig candied bacon in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To prevent the slices from sticking together (which can happen with the caramelized jam), place a piece of wax paper or parchment paper between each layer of bacon. You can then wrap the entire batch well in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or store it in an airtight lidded container. This will help maintain its crispy texture and prevent it from drying out.
Frequently Asked Questions About Candied Bacon
For the best results, reheat your candied bacon in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes until it warms through and crisps up again. You can also quickly pop it in your microwave for about 30 seconds for a faster option, though it might not be quite as crispy as oven-reheated.
Several factors can contribute to chewy candied bacon. Ensure you’re using thick-cut bacon, as thin-cut often cooks too quickly or burns before crisping. Using a wire rack is crucial for air circulation. Also, make sure your oven temperature is correct and that you’ve baked it long enough for the fat to render and the jam to caramelize properly. Finally, don’t forget the resting period after baking; it helps the bacon crisp up as it cools.
Absolutely! While the fig and rosemary combination is stellar, you can experiment. Apricot jam, cherry preserves, or even a spicy pepper jelly could work well. For herbs, thyme or sage could be interesting alternatives, though rosemary’s robust flavor pairs exceptionally with figs. The key is to choose flavors that complement the richness of the bacon and the sweetness of the jam.
Perfect Pairings for Rosemary and Fig Candied Bacon
This incredible candied bacon pairs wonderfully with a variety of other breakfast and brunch favorites. Which one will you try alongside your batch of sweet and savory goodness?
- Buttermilk Scrambled Eggs
- Smoked Sausage Strata
- Miso Deviled Eggs
- Truffle Omelet with Crème Fraîche
Did you make this recipe? I would love to hear about it! Please leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating with a comment right below the recipe card. If you snap a photo of your creation, don’t forget to tag me on Instagram @brunchandbatter.
📖Recipe
Rosemary and Fig Candied Bacon
Pin Recipe
Equipment
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broiler pan or baking pan fitted with a wire rack
Ingredients
- 12 oz thick cut bacon
- ½ cup fig jam or preserves
- 1½ tablespoon finely diced fresh rosemary
- freshly ground black pepper optional
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 375°F. Line a large broiler pan or baking sheet with parchment or aluminum foil (for easier clean-up). You may need 2 baking sheets depending on your size.
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Place the bacon strips in the pan. Do not overlap. Brush each strip generously with the fig jam. Sprinkle the rosemary evenly over the slices. Grind some fresh pepper over the top, if using.
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Place in the oven at 375°F and cook for 35-45 minutes. Watch carefully for burning. Remove from the oven when the bacon is caramelized, and crispy around the edges. Let rest 5-7 minutes after removing to continue to crisp up. Serve immediately.
Nutrition*
*Nutrition information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. Nutrition information can vary depending on many factors, such as products used, measurements and substitutions, therefore it is recommended that you obtain nutritional calculations based on your own finished recipe.
We hope you love this Rosemary and Fig Candied Bacon recipe as much as we do. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients can create something truly extraordinary. Whether you’re serving it at a sophisticated brunch, a casual family breakfast, or simply enjoying a few strips as a special treat, this sweet and savory bacon is sure to become a cherished favorite. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the pepper for a touch more heat, or even a sprinkle of chili flakes if you’re feeling adventurous. Happy cooking, and happy eating!