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Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your crackers will cook evenly and the bacon will crisp up perfectly.
Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet. The wire rack allows the heat to circulate around the crackers, ensuring even cooking.
Arrange the Crackers: Lay out the butter crackers on the wire rack, leaving a little space between each one. This spacing helps the bacon cook properly and allows the sugar to melt and caramelize without making the crackers stick together.
Prepare the Bacon: Slice the bacon into thirds or fourths, depending on the size of your crackers. Each piece of bacon should fit neatly on top of the crackers. Place a piece of bacon lengthwise on each cracker.
Add the Sugar and Spice: Sprinkle a heaping teaspoon of brown sugar on top of each slice of bacon. This is what will give the bacon its candied effect. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper and a pinch of freshly ground black pepper to each cracker. The cayenne adds a subtle kick, while the black pepper enhances the overall flavor.
Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them; the exact baking time can vary. You’ll know they’re done when the brown sugar has melted and the bacon is crispy.
Cool and Serve: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the crackers to cool. The sugar will harden as they cool, creating a crunchy, sweet, and savory treat. Once cooled, they are ready to serve. Enjoy!
Tips and Variations
Cheese Lovers: For an added layer of flavor, sprinkle some shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese over the brown sugar before baking.
Spice It Up: If you love heat, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a dash of hot sauce to the brown sugar mixture.
Maple Twist: Substitute the brown sugar with maple syrup for a different, but equally delicious, sweetness.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with a sprinkle of rosemary or thyme on top of the bacon before baking to add a herby note to your crackers.
Conclusion
Candied Bacon Crackers are a delightful blend of sweet, smoky, and savory flavors that are sure to become a favorite snack at any gathering. With their simple preparation and irresistible taste, they offer a unique twist on traditional snacks. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply looking for a tasty treat to enjoy at home, these crackers are sure to impress.
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