Bourbon Bacon Brittle Recipe

If you love the rich, smoky goodness of bacon combined with the irresistible sweetness of brittle and a subtle hint of bourbon, then this Bourbon Bacon Brittle Recipe is about to become your new favorite treat. Imagine the perfect balance of crunchy caramel, toasted pecans, and candied bacon kissed with bourbon’s warm, oaky notes, all coming together in a bite that’s both savory and sweet. This is not your usual brittle; it’s a gourmet twist that’s perfect for sharing at parties, gifting during the holidays, or simply indulging whenever you crave something special and addictive. Let me walk you through this spectacular recipe that turns humble ingredients into pure magic.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t be intimidated by the list because each ingredient is key to creating the perfect texture and flavor combo that defines this brittle. From sweet corn syrup to smoky bacon and a splash of bourbon, every element is there to build layers of taste and crunch.

• Bacon (16 ounces): Trader Joe’s Black Forest bacon works beautifully for its smoky, slightly sweet flavor which crisps perfectly when candied.
• Bourbon whiskey (3 tablespoons total): Adds a warm, mellow depth that ties the sweet and savory together flawlessly.
• Brown sugar (1/2 cup): Used to candy the bacon, giving it that irresistible caramelized coating.
• Red pepper flakes (1/2 teaspoon): Just a pinch to add a subtle kick balancing the sweetness.
• Granulated sugar (2 cups): The base of your brittle that creates the crisp caramel backbone.
• Water (1/2 cup): Helps dissolve the sugar evenly for perfect caramelization.
• Unsalted butter (1/2 cup): Adds richness and smoothness to your caramel.
• Light corn syrup (1/3 cup): Prevents crystallization and keeps the brittle silky and glossy.
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the caramel’s flavor with a warm, fragrant note.
• Baking soda (1/2 teaspoon): Reacts with the caramel to give the brittle a lighter, airy texture.
• Pecans (8 ounces, toasted and chopped): Add a toasty nutty crunch that complements the bacon’s smokiness perfectly.

How to Make Bourbon Bacon Brittle Recipe

Step 1: Make the Candied Bacon

Start this caramel adventure by preparing your bacon with the perfect sweet and spicy coating. Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper and set an oven-safe rack on top. Lay out your 16 ounces of bacon in a single layer on the rack. Then drizzle 2 tablespoons of bourbon whiskey over the strips, sprinkle evenly with 1/2 cup brown sugar and scatter 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes on top for that gentle heat. Place everything into a 400°F oven for 13 to 15 minutes, or alternatively, bake low and slow at 300°F for 50 to 60 minutes. Keep a close eye so the bacon crisps and caramelizes without burning. Once done, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to cool, then roughly chop it. This candied bacon is going to be the star topping later on!

Step 2: Prepare the Caramel Brittle

In a large saucepan, combine 2 cups of sugar, 1/2 cup water, 1/2 cup unsalted butter, and 1/3 cup light corn syrup. Heat on medium-high, stirring occasionally, until the mixture boils and thickens. Watch carefully as it begins to turn a light brown and approaches 300°F on a candy thermometer—this usually takes about 10 minutes. Around 250°F, expect a thickening that signals you’re almost there. This caramel is the crunchy foundation everyone will rave about.

Step 3: Flavor and Combine

Remove your caramel from heat and quickly stir in the remaining tablespoon of bourbon whiskey, the teaspoon of vanilla extract, and the 1/2 teaspoon baking soda. The soda creates tiny bubbles that lighten the brittle’s texture, making it delightfully crisp without being too dense. Stir in your toasted, chopped pecans immediately so every piece is coated with caramel’s golden goodness.

Step 4: Assemble the Brittle

Working quickly, scrape the hot caramel mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Use a spatula to spread it thinly and evenly before it sets—it happens fast! While still warm, sprinkle the chopped candied bacon evenly on top, gently pressing it into the caramel so each bite includes that smoky-sweet bacon crunch. Let the brittle cool completely for at least 30 minutes before breaking it into generous chunks for serving.

How to Serve Bourbon Bacon Brittle Recipe

Garnishes

This bourbon bacon brittle shines on its own, but if you want to take it to the next level, try sprinkling a little flaky sea salt on top just before serving. The salt crystals elevate the sweet-savory contrast and make every bite pop. You can also toss a few extra lightly toasted pecans on the platter for added texture and a rustic look.

Side Dishes

This brittle pairs wonderfully with a sharp cheese board featuring aged cheddar or blue cheese, where the saltiness of the cheese complements the caramel bacon perfectly. It’s also fantastic alongside a glass of bourbon or a smoky cocktail for a party spread that’s sure to impress friends.

Creative Ways to Present

For gift-giving or special occasions, package the brittle chunks in decorative tins or cellophane bags tied with rustic twine. You can also crush some brittle to sprinkle over vanilla ice cream or use it as a topping for cocktails that call for a bit of smoky sweetness and crunch. The options are endless, and each presentation adds a charming touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, keep your bourbon bacon brittle in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh and crunchy for up to two weeks, ready for snacking or gifting.

Freezing

You can freeze brittle by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and placing it in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen brittle maintains its texture well and can be stored for up to two months. Just thaw at room temperature before serving to let those flavors come alive again.

Reheating

Brittle is best enjoyed at room temperature, but if it feels a bit soft, popping it into a warm oven for a few minutes can revive the crispiness. Avoid the microwave as it can make the brittle sticky or chewy rather than crunchy.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of bacon for this recipe?

Absolutely! While Black Forest bacon is preferred for its deep flavor, you can use any thick-cut, smoky bacon. Just be mindful of fat content and cook times, as leaner bacon might crisp faster or not render the same way.

Do I have to use bourbon, or can I substitute it?

Bourbon adds a unique warmth and complexity, but if you don’t have it on hand, you can substitute with whiskey or even a splash of rum. Keep in mind each spirit will impart a slightly different flavor profile.

How do I prevent the brittle from sticking to the pan?

Using parchment paper on your baking sheet is key to easy removal. Also, make sure to spread the caramel mixture thinly and evenly so it cools properly without sticking too much. Avoid greasing the parchment as it can make the brittle slippery to handle.

Can I make this recipe without nuts?

Yes! If you have a nut allergy or prefer nut-free brittle, simply omit the pecans. The brittle will still have that wonderful crunch and bacon flavor but with slightly less texture variation.

Is this brittle spicy because of the red pepper flakes?

The red pepper flakes add just a subtle heat that balances the sweetness—it’s not overpowering but gives a nice little kick. You can adjust the amount to your taste or omit them entirely if you prefer no spice.

Final Thoughts

This Bourbon Bacon Brittle Recipe truly is one of those magical treats that brings people together with every bite. It’s crunchy, sweet, smoky, and full of surprises, a perfect indulgence to make for friends, family, or just yourself. I can’t wait for you to try it and share it because there’s something wonderfully comforting about brittle that takes your taste buds on a joyful ride. Happy cooking and even happier snacking!

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