Maple Bourbon Bacon Bites: Simple, Sweet, and Savory

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If you’ve ever thought bacon couldn’t get any better, wait until you try these sweet, smoky, and delightfully boozy Maple Bourbon Bacon Bites. They’re perfect for game nights, holiday gatherings, or any time you want to thrill your friends with something irresistibly savory.

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Ingredients

  • 1 pound thick-cut bacon, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • ¼ cup maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons bourbon (optional but highly recommended for flavor)
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper (or more to taste)
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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment or aluminum foil. Arrange the bacon pieces in a single layer, ensuring they don’t overlap. Bake for about 10 minutes, just enough for the bacon to begin crisping but not fully cooked.

Meanwhile, whisk together the maple syrup, bourbon, brown sugar, and pepper in a small bowl. Remove the partially cooked bacon from the oven and carefully brush or spoon the bourbon-maple mixture over each piece. Return the bacon to the oven, letting it bake for another 5 to 8 minutes or until your bites turn glossy, sticky, and fabulously caramelized. Keep a close eye to avoid burning. Let them cool slightly before serving—if you can wait that long!

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These Maple Bourbon Bacon Bites are a guaranteed winner for anyone who loves a casual yet indulgent appetizer. They’re easy to customize—swap turkey bacon for a leaner option, or use a non-alcoholic glaze if you prefer to skip the bourbon. Whether you’re hosting a big party or a cozy night in, these sticky-sweet, crowd-pleasing morsels check all the boxes: fast, fun, and downright delicious.

Nathaniel Lee is an avid cook, drawing on his decades of home cooking and fine dining experience. He is a contributing chef at Mashed, and his recipes and contributions have been featured in Tasting Table, Edible Arrangements, Insanely Good Recipes, and The Daily Meal.