Introduction

Bourbon Bacon Brittle is a delightful treat that perfectly balances sweet, salty, and smoky flavors. This crunchy candy combines crispy bourbon-glazed bacon with toasted pecans and a rich caramel brittle base, making it an irresistible snack or gift.

A close-up view of crispy brittle pieces with a shiny, caramelized amber color filled with small chunks of nuts and red bits, packed inside a clear glass jar with visible rounded edges, all sitting on a white marbled surface blurred in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

8-12 strips thick cut bacon
3 tablespoons bourbon (for bacon)
3 tablespoons light brown sugar (for bacon)
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
1/2 cup light corn syrup
1/2 cup water
2 tablespoons bourbon (for brittle)
1/2 cup chopped pecans
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking soda
Sea salt for sprinkling

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with foil or a Silpat mat.
Step 2: Lay the bacon strips on the prepared baking sheet. Brush both sides with 3 tablespoons bourbon and sprinkle with light brown sugar.
Step 3: Bake the bacon for 15-20 minutes, until it caramelizes and becomes crispy. Thinner bacon cooks closer to 15 minutes; thick cut may take up to 20 minutes.
Step 4: Let the bacon cool slightly, then chop into small, bite-sized pieces.
Step 5: Spread chopped pecans on the same baking sheet and toast in the oven at 400°F for 5-7 minutes until fragrant.
Step 6: Clean the baking sheet or prepare a new one by lining it with a Silpat mat or parchment paper for the brittle.
Step 7: Combine the bourbon, chopped bacon, and toasted pecans in a bowl and set aside for easy access during candy making.
Step 8: In a medium saucepan, stir together the granulated sugar, corn syrup, and water over medium heat. Stir until sugar dissolves and the mixture boils.
Step 9: Without stirring, cook the syrup until it reaches 290°F (143°C) on a candy thermometer, or until it turns a golden amber color. Add the bourbon, bacon, and pecan mixture, then continue heating and stirring until the temperature reaches 300°F (149°C).
Step 10: Remove the pan from heat immediately. Stir in butter, vanilla, and baking soda until the butter melts and the mixture is fully combined.
Step 11: Quickly pour the brittle mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Use a wooden spoon to spread it as thinly and evenly as possible.
Step 12: Sprinkle sea salt over the hot brittle and allow it to cool and set for at least 20 minutes.
Step 13: Once hardened, break the brittle into pieces and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

Use a candy thermometer for precise temperature; it greatly improves the texture of the brittle.
Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds for a different nutty flavor.
For a spicier twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the brittle mixture before pouring.
If you prefer less smoky flavor, use regular cut bacon instead of thick cut.

Storage

Store the bourbon bacon brittle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Keep it away from moisture to maintain crispness. To refresh slightly softened brittle, warm gently in a low oven for a few minutes before serving.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a clear glass jar filled with thin, irregular pieces of amber-colored brittle candy that have small bits of nuts and reddish-brown pieces embedded throughout. The brittle has a shiny, smooth, and slightly translucent texture, with some sharp edges and occasional rough patches where the nuts are visible. The jar is placed on a white marbled surface, and the background is softly blurred to keep focus on the candy pieces protruding from the top of the jar. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use turkey bacon instead of pork bacon?

Yes, turkey bacon can be used, but it has a different fat content and texture, so the final brittle will be less rich and smoky. Adjust cook time as needed to achieve crispiness.

Is bourbon essential for this recipe?

Bourbon adds a distinctive flavor that complements the sweet and smoky elements beautifully. If you prefer not to use alcohol, you can substitute with a splash of vanilla extract, though the taste will differ.