🥓 Backyard Pig Candy Bacon

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This one’s for the bacon lovers — the ones who believe everything’s better with a little smoke, sugar, and spice. Backyard Pig Candy Bacon is the ultimate sweet-meets-savory indulgence, with caramelized edges, smoky undertones, and just enough heat to keep things interesting. Whether you’re cooking brunch, tailgating, or adding the perfect finishing touch to a burger, this candied bacon is the kind of snack that disappears faster than you can make it.

The Story Behind the Recipe

Every backyard cook has a dish that stops people in their tracks — for me, this was it. I made Pig Candy for the first time on a lazy Sunday, testing out how sugar and smoke would play together. Within minutes, the smell had neighbors wandering over.

It’s become a Delmarva Backyard staple — one of those recipes that needs no excuse. It’s dessert for carnivores, the perfect mix of sweet maple syrup, brown sugar, and a smoky kiss from the pit. I’ve served it as a side, chopped it over mac and cheese, and even used it to top burgers. It never fails.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe ❤️

🔥 Sweet + Smoky Balance: A perfect glaze that caramelizes without burning.
🥓 Crispy Yet Tender: The texture every bacon lover dreams of.
🍁 Bold Backyard Flavor: Maple syrup, BBQ rub, and smoke combine for pure magic.
🌶️ Customizable Heat: Keep it mild or turn up the spice — it’s your call.

Backyard Pig Candy Bacon Recipe

🕒 Prep Time: 30 min ⏱ Cook Time: 30 min ⏳ Total Time: 1 hr
🍽 Serves: 4+

Ingredients

Bacon:

  • 1 pack Thick-Cut Center-Cut Bacon

  • 2 Tbsp Killer Hogs BBQ Rub

  • 2 Tbsp SPG (Salt 35%, Pepper 60%, Garlic Powder 5%)

  • ½ cup Brown Sugar

Baste Sauce:

  • ½ cup Brown Sugar

  • ½ cup Apple Juice

  • ½ cup Maple Syrup

  • 1 Tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar

  • Optional: A few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for extra heat

Instructions

1️⃣ Prep the Bacon
Lay the bacon strips out on wire racks placed over a foil-lined baking sheet for easy cleanup.

2️⃣ Combine the Rub
Mix together Killer Hogs Rub, SPG, and brown sugar. Use a shaker to evenly coat the top side of the bacon. Flip and repeat on the other side.

3️⃣ Fire Up the Smoker
Set your smoker to 300°F (148°C) and let it stabilize.

4️⃣ Start Smoking
Place the trays of bacon inside the smoker and cook for 10 minutes.

5️⃣ Mix the Glaze
In a saucepan or mixing bowl, combine brown sugar, apple juice, maple syrup, and vinegar until fully blended.

6️⃣ Baste Generously
After 10 minutes, brush each slice of bacon thickly with the glaze. Cook for 5 minutes, then flip and baste again.

7️⃣ Repeat and Build Layers
Every 5 minutes, flip and baste again. Continue this process until the bacon is glossy, dark, and starting to caramelize — about 25–30 minutes total.

8️⃣ Finish and Cool
Remove the bacon when it reaches your desired crispness (just before it looks fully set — it’ll crisp up as it cools). Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Pro Tips for Perfect Pig Candy 💡

🔥 Low & Controlled Heat: Stay under 325°F — too hot and the sugar will burn.
🍁 Layered Flavor: Each round of basting builds a thicker, stickier glaze.
🌶️ Add Heat: Mix cayenne or chipotle powder into your glaze for a spicy kick.
🥓 Even Cooking: Wire racks ensure airflow so the bacon cooks evenly on both sides.
🍔 Creative Uses: Crumble it over salads, burgers, pancakes, or even ice cream.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe nails the trifecta of sweet, smoky, and spicy without overcomplicating things. The rub and glaze work together to create that glossy, candy-like coating while the bacon stays meaty and crisp. It’s a foolproof crowd-pleaser that turns ordinary bacon into something unforgettable.

💬 What’s your favorite way to serve Pig Candy? On burgers? Brunch boards? Let me know — always looking for new ways to use this backyard legend.

FAQ

Q: How do I keep the bacon from burning?
A: Cook low and slow at 300°F or below. The sugar needs time to caramelize without scorching.

Q: Can I make Pig Candy in the oven?
A: Absolutely. Bake at 300°F on a wire rack for the same effect — just watch closely near the end.

Q: How long does it take to make?
A: Around 30 minutes, depending on the bacon’s thickness and your desired crispness.

Q: Can I make it ahead of time?
A: Yes! Reheat gently in the oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.

Q: What kind of bacon works best?
A: Thick-cut center-cut bacon gives the best balance between texture and flavor.

🔧 Recommended Gear

  • Wire Racks – Ensure even airflow for perfect caramelization and easy cleanup.