Spiced Bacon Twists Recipe

Bacon: The star of the dish, providing a savory and crispy base.

Brown sugar: Adds a sweet caramelized flavor that balances the spice.

Ground cinnamon: Brings warmth and a hint of sweetness to the mix.

Cayenne pepper: Adds a spicy kick that elevates the overall flavor.

When twisting the bacon, ensure that each slice is evenly coated with the sugar mixture to achieve a consistent flavor throughout. For an extra layer of texture, consider using thick-cut bacon which holds its shape better and provides a satisfying crunch. Additionally, using a wire rack on top of the baking sheet allows the bacon to cook more evenly and lets the fat drip away, resulting in a crispier finish.

• bacon - Substitute with turkey bacon: Turkey bacon is a leaner option and provides a similar texture and flavor when cooked.

• bacon - Substitute with tempeh bacon: For a vegetarian option, tempeh bacon offers a smoky flavor and a satisfying crunch.

• brown sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a similar sweetness and caramel-like flavor, making it a good alternative.

• brown sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup adds a rich, sweet flavor and can be used in a slightly reduced quantity to avoid excess moisture.

• ground cinnamon - Substitute with ground nutmeg: Ground nutmeg provides a warm, spicy flavor that complements the other ingredients well.

• ground cinnamon - Substitute with pumpkin pie spice: Pumpkin pie spice includes cinnamon along with other spices, adding a complex flavor profile.

• cayenne pepper - Substitute with paprika: Paprika offers a milder heat and a slightly smoky flavor, making it a good alternative.

• cayenne pepper - Substitute with chili powder: Chili powder provides a similar level of heat with additional depth from other spices.

• Allow the bacon twists to cool completely on a wire rack before storing.
• Place the cooled bacon twists in an airtight container. You can use a plastic container with a tight-fitting lid or a resealable plastic bag.
• Store the container in the refrigerator. The bacon twists will stay fresh for up to 4-5 days.
• For longer storage, consider freezing the bacon twists:
  1. Lay the cooled bacon twists in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  2. Place the baking sheet in the freezer for about 1-2 hours, or until the bacon twists are frozen solid.
  3. Transfer the frozen bacon twists to a resealable freezer bag or airtight container. Label the container with the date.
  4. Store in the freezer for up to 2 months.
• To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the frozen bacon twists on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
• Alternatively, you can reheat the bacon twists in a microwave. Place them on a microwave-safe plate and heat on high for 20-30 seconds, or until warm.

• Oven Method:

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Place the spiced bacon twists on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  • Cover them lightly with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning.
  • Heat for about 10 minutes or until they reach your desired level of crispiness.

• Microwave Method:

  • Place the spiced bacon twists on a microwave-safe plate.
  • Cover them with a microwave-safe paper towel to absorb excess grease.
  • Microwave on high for 20-30 seconds. Check and add more time in 10-second increments if needed.

• Skillet Method:

  • Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  • Place the spiced bacon twists in the skillet without overcrowding.
  • Heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are warmed through and crispy.

• Air Fryer Method:

  • Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  • Place the spiced bacon twists in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
  • Heat for 3-5 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they don't burn.

• Toaster Oven Method:

  • Preheat your toaster oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Place the spiced bacon twists on the toaster oven tray.
  • Heat for about 5-7 minutes or until they are crispy and warm.

• Oven: Used to bake the bacon twists at a consistent temperature of 350°F (175°C).

• Mixing bowl: Utilized to combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper.

• Baking sheet: Provides a flat surface to place the twisted bacon slices for baking.

• Parchment paper: Lined on the baking sheet to prevent the bacon from sticking and to make cleanup easier.

• Tongs: Handy for twisting the bacon slices and placing them on the baking sheet without getting your hands too messy.

• Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring the brown sugar.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the ground cinnamon and cayenne pepper precisely.

• Small bowl: Optional, but can be used to hold the sugar mixture for easier coating of the bacon slices.

Prepare the sugar mix ahead: Mix the brown sugar, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper in advance and store it in an airtight container.

Use parchment paper: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.

Pre-twist the bacon: Twist the bacon slices the night before and store them in the fridge to save time on the day of baking.

Batch cooking: If you need more than 12 slices, prepare multiple baking sheets and bake them simultaneously to save time.