Million Dollar Bacon
This crispy, caramelized Million Dollar Bacon is sweet, spicy, and absolutely irresistible. It’s ready in just 30 minutes and perfect for breakfast, brunch, appetizers, or snacking.
Servings 7
Equipment
- Air Fryer
Ingredients
- 1 lb thick cut bacon can use regular bacon
- ⅓ C brown sugar
- ½ t black pepper
- ½ t paprika
- ¼ t cayenne pepper - optional
- ½ t chili pepper flakes - optional
- 2 T maple syrup
Instructions
- Cut the bacon crosswise into shorter pieces.
- Lay out the bacon pieces flat on a cutting board or parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, black pepper, paprika, optional cayenne pepper, and optional crushed red pepper flakes.
- Sprinkle the desired amount of seasoned brown sugar over each piece of bacon, spreading it evenly.
- Place half of the bacon in a bare, unlined air fryer basket.
- Cook at 400°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through. Be sure to check that the bacon isn’t overcooking, since sugar burns quickly. Cook in 1–2 minute increments as needed to desired crispness.
- Once cooked, use tongs to transfer the bacon to a plate—do not use paper towels, or it will stick.
- Using a spoon, drizzle your desired amount of maple syrup over each piece. Allow it to sit for 10 minutes to caramelize; it crisps as it cools.
- Repeat with the second batch. Reduce cooking time to about 8 minutes, as the preheated air fryer cooks faster.
- Optional: sprinkle with fresh cracked black pepper and additional red pepper flakes for color and flavor.
Notes
Tips for Success
- Always check the bacon while cooking so the sugars don’t burn.
- Do not place cooked bacon on paper towels—the candy coating sticks!
- If using regular bacon, reduce cooking time slightly.
- Let the bacon cool fully for the crispiest finish.