Maple Bacon Twists combine crispy bacon with sweet maple goodness in a fun twisty shape. These snacks are perfect for breakfast or brunch and are sure to please bacon lovers!
Making these is a blast! Just wrap the bacon around some dough, brush on maple syrup, and bake until they’re golden. They’re deliciously crunchy and sweet—who could resist? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bacon: Thick-cut bacon is the best choice for these twists. It gives you that perfect crispy texture. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey bacon works, but it might not get as crispy. I’ve tried both, and thick-cut adds a richer flavor!
Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup is essential for that authentic sweetness. If you don’t have any, you can substitute it with honey or agave syrup for a different touch. Just be careful; it can make the twists a tad sweeter!
Coarse Sea Salt: This is optional, but a little sprinkle of coarse sea salt enhances the flavors nicely. If you’re watching your sodium intake, feel free to skip it or use a salt substitute!
How Can You Make Sure Your Bacon Twists Stay Crispy?
Getting your bacon twists crispy is key to a great texture. To achieve this, follow these tips:
- Cut the bacon into thinner strips. Thinner strips cook faster and get crispier.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. Give each twist enough space to let hot air circulate around them.
- Monitor the baking closely. Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your twists to avoid burning.
- Let them cool on a wire rack. This prevents moisture from building up and keeps them crisp.
Maple Bacon Twists
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 slices of thick-cut bacon
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- Optional: coarse sea salt for sprinkling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus 15-20 minutes of cooking time. In total, you should plan for about 30 minutes before serving. Perfect for a quick and delicious appetizer or snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats up, prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or a silicone mat. This helps catch drippings and makes for easier cleanup!
2. Prepare the Bacon:
Next, lay the bacon slices flat on a cutting board. With a sharp knife, cut each slice in half lengthwise to create long, thinner strips. This will help them cook perfectly and become crispy.
3. Twist the Bacon:
Now it’s time to get creative! Take each bacon strip and carefully twist it a few times to form a fun spiral shape. This gives them that signature twist and helps them cook evenly.
4. Arrange the Twists:
Place the twisted bacon strips on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure to space them slightly apart so they can crisp up without sticking together!
5. Brush with Maple Syrup:
Using a pastry brush, lightly coat each twist with pure maple syrup. Be generous but don’t overdo it; you want just enough to caramelize without drowning the bacon!
6. Bake to Perfection:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them as they cook, checking occasionally to avoid burning. You want them nice and crispy with that beautiful golden brown color.
7. Season and Cool:
Once baked, remove them from the oven and sprinkle a pinch of coarse sea salt on top, if desired. Let the bacon twists cool for a few minutes; this allows them to crisp up even more.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve these delicious Maple Bacon Twists warm as a sweet and savory snack or appetizer. They’re sure to be a hit at any gathering!
Can I Use Different Types of Bacon?
Absolutely! While thick-cut bacon gives the best results, you can use standard cut bacon or even turkey bacon. Just keep in mind that thinner bacon may cook faster, so adjust your baking time accordingly.
What if I Don’t Have Maple Syrup?
In a pinch, you can substitute maple syrup with honey or agave syrup. Just remember, these alternatives will change the flavor slightly but will still add a delicious sweetness to the bacon twists!
How Do I Store Leftover Bacon Twists?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a hot oven (about 350°F) for a few minutes until warmed through and crispy again!
Can I Make These Bacon Twists in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the twists a day in advance and store them in the fridge. Just bake them fresh before serving for that crispy texture everyone loves.