Caramelized Bacon

This appetizer is insanely delicious and addictive! Just like a Lay's potato chip: "bet you can't eat just one!". The crisp, sweet and spicy bacon pairs well with any cocktail.

                                                          Caramelized Bacon
                                                                adapted from
                                                            barefoot contessa

                                                              FOOLPROOF 
 

                                                             

Ingredients
1/2 cup light brown sugar lightly packed
1/2 cup chopped or whole pecans
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
2 tablespoons pure maple sugar
1/2 pound thick-sliced applewood smoked bacon

Preheat the oven to 375° F. Line a sheet pan with aluminum foil and place a wire baking rack on top.
Combine the brown sugar and pecans in a food processor and process until the pecans are finely ground. Add the salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper and pulse to combine. Add the maple syrup and pulse again to moisten the crumbs.

Cut each bacon slice in half crosswise and line up the pieces on the baking rack without touching. With a small spoon, evenly spread the pecan mixture on top of each piece of bacon, using all the mixture. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the top is very browned, but not burnt. If it's underbaked, the bacon won't crisp as it cools.

While it's hot, transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels and set aside to cool. Serve at room temperature.

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