Homemade Bacon Brittle: A Sweet and Savory Delight
When it comes to indulgent treats, few can resist the allure of bacon or the crunch of brittle. Combine these two delights, and you get homemade bacon brittle—a unique fusion of salty and sweet that’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. This treat is perfect for snacking, gifting, or adding a gourmet twist to your dessert table. Let’s dive into the process of making this irresistible treat from scratch.
Why Bacon Brittle?
Bacon brittle takes the classic peanut brittle to a whole new level. The smoky, savory notes of crispy bacon perfectly complement the buttery sweetness of the caramelized sugar. It’s an unconventional pairing that surprises and delights the palate, making it a favorite among foodies and bacon enthusiasts alike.
Equipment Needed
To make bacon brittle, you will need the following equipment:
- Heavy bottom large saucepan
- 2 baking sheets
- Candy thermometer (I use THIS ONE)
- Wood spoon/spatula
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create homemade bacon brittle, you only need a handful of ingredients:
- 1-1 1/2 cups of bacon: Cooked until crispy and crumbled. (I use applewood smoked thick sliced-about 8 slices)
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 2 cups sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 sticks unsalted butter (1 cup)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
NOTE: When making brittle it is very important to have all your ingredients and utensils prepped and ready to go before starting the process. Candy making requires your full attention and working quickly before the candy hardens.
How to Make Bacon Brittle
- Fry the bacon strips until they’re crispy. Drain them on paper towels and let them cool. Once cooled, crumble or chop the bacon into small pieces. Set aside.
- Butter 2 baking sheets. Keep them nearby, as you’ll need them ready when the brittle mixture is done.
- In a large saucepan, combine the sugar, corn syrup, butter, and water. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally with a wooden spoon until the sugar dissolves and butter melts.
- Bring the mixture to a hard boil over medium high heat and stir frequently. A hard boil is one that won’t stop with stirring. Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature. You’re aiming for 300°F (the hard crack stage).
- Once the caramel reaches 300°F, immediately remove it from the heat. Stir in the crumbled bacon and baking soda until well incorporated. Be careful, as the mixture will bubble vigorously.
- Quickly pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheets and spread it out evenly with a wooden spatula. Work fast, as the caramel sets quickly.
- Let the brittle cool completely at room temperature. Once hardened, break it into pieces with your hands or a sturdy knife into rustic pieces.
Tips for Successful Bacon Brittle
- Use a Candy Thermometer: Precision is key when working with caramel. A candy thermometer ensures you hit the right temperature for perfect brittle.
- Work Quickly: The caramel hardens fast, so have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go.
- Storage: Store the brittle in an airtight container at room temperature. It’ll stay fresh and crunchy for up to two weeks.
Serving Suggestions
- As a Snack: Enjoy bacon brittle on its own for a sweet-and-savory pick-me-up.
- Gourmet Toppings: Crumble it over ice cream, yogurt, or pancakes for a decadent twist.
- Gift It: Wrap pieces in cellophane bags or tins for a homemade gift that’s sure to impress.
Final Thoughts
Homemade bacon brittle is more than just a treat—it’s a culinary adventure that combines unexpected flavors in a delightful way. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe is simple enough to try and sophisticated enough to wow your friends and family. So, grab your apron and get ready to create a batch of bacon magic!
Love this recipe? Check out the BEST cashew brittle recipe! My Mammam’s favorite holiday recipe. Here are a few of her other classic treats:
Homemade Bacon Brittle
Equipment
- Heavy bottom large saucepan
- 2 baking sheets
- Candy thermometer
- wood spoon/spatula1
Ingredients
- 1-1 1/2 cups cooked, crumbled bacon (I use applewood smoked thick sliced-about 8 slices)
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 2 cups sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 sticks unsalted butter (1 cup)
- 1 tsp baking soda
Instructions
See Recipe Notes Below Before Starting
- Fry the bacon strips until they’re crispy. Drain them on paper towels and let them cool. Once cooled, crumble or chop the bacon into small pieces. Set aside.
- Butter 2 baking sheets. Keep them nearby, as you’ll need them ready when the brittle mixture is done.
- In a large saucepan, combine the sugar, corn syrup, butter, and water. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally with a wooden spoon until the sugar dissolves and butter melts.
- Bring the mixture to a hard boil over medium high heat and stir frequently. A hard boil is one that won't stop with stirring.
- Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature. You’re aiming for 300°F (the hard crack stage).
- Once the caramel reaches 300°F, immediately remove it from the heat. Stir in the crumbled bacon and baking soda until well incorporated. Be careful, as the mixture will bubble vigorously.
- Quickly pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheets and spread it out evenly with a wooden spatula. Work fast, as the caramel sets quickly.
- Let the brittle cool completely at room temperature. Once hardened, break it into pieces with your hands or a sturdy knife into rustic pieces.
