Spiced Bacon Twists Recipe

Bacon: The main ingredient that becomes crispy and delicious when baked.

Brown sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a caramelized coating on the bacon.

Ground cinnamon: Gives a warm, slightly sweet spice that pairs well with the sugar.

Cayenne pepper: Adds a little heat to balance the sweetness and make the flavor pop.

One of the coolest parts of making these Spiced Bacon Twists is twisting the bacon slices before baking. It might seem simple, but getting a good twist helps the bacon cook evenly and get that perfect crispy texture. Here’s how you can do it step by step:

1. Lay a slice of bacon flat on a clean surface.
2. Hold one end of the slice with one hand.
3. With your other hand, gently start twisting the bacon around itself, like you’re twisting a ribbon.
4. Keep twisting until the whole slice is spiraled.
5. Carefully place the twisted bacon on your baking sheet so it keeps its shape.

Twisting the bacon like this does two great things. First, it makes sure the brown sugar and spices stick all around the bacon, giving you flavor in every bite. Second, the twist creates little gaps where heat can flow, so the bacon crisps up nicely instead of staying soggy. Plus, the twists look fun and fancy when they’re done!

I remember the first time I tried this, I didn’t twist tightly enough, and the bacon kind of unraveled while baking. It still tasted good, but it wasn’t as pretty or crispy. Now I make sure to hold the ends firmly and twist just enough so it holds its shape but isn’t too tight to snap. Also, if you’re in a hurry, you can twist a few slices at once and line them up on the baking sheet to save time. It’s a simple trick that makes a big difference in how your Spiced Bacon Twists turn out!

• 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.