Million Dollar Bacon from First Watch features thick-cut applewood-smoked bacon glazed with a sweet and savory blend of brown sugar and cracked black pepper, delivering a perfectly caramelized, crispy, and melt-in-your-mouth flavor experience.
Equipments
- Baking sheet
- Wire rack
- Parchment paper (optional)
- Small mixing bowl
- Spoon or pastry brush
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) thick-cut applewood-smoked bacon
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cracked black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
When selecting ingredients, choose thick-cut applewood-smoked bacon for its robust flavor that crisps well during baking. Use light or dark brown sugar to achieve the ideal caramelization and sweetness without overpowering the bacon. Freshly cracked black pepper is preferred for its pungency and texture, enhancing the dish's savory profile. Measure spices carefully, especially cayenne pepper, to balance heat without overwhelming the sweet elements. Your homemade Million Dollar Bacon from First Watch copycat will shine with these ingredient choices, delivering a perfectly sweet, spicy, and smoky treat.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper (optional).
- Place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet.
- Arrange bacon slices in a single layer on the wire rack.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine brown sugar, cracked black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
- Sprinkle the brown sugar mixture evenly over the bacon slices.
- Drizzle maple syrup over the coated bacon slices.
- Place baking sheet in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until bacon is crispy and caramelized.
- Remove bacon from the oven and let cool for 2-3 minutes on the rack.
- Transfer to a cutting board and cut bacon as desired.
- Serve warm and enjoy.
Substitution
Million Dollar Bacon from First Watch copycat recipe calls for thick-cut applewood-smoked bacon glazed with a mixture of brown sugar, cracked black pepper, cayenne pepper, and maple syrup for a rich, caramelized finish. If thick-cut applewood-smoked bacon is unavailable, you can substitute with hickory-smoked bacon or a thick-cut variety from your local butcher to maintain the smoky flavor and texture. When applying the glaze, use a pastry brush or spoon to evenly coat the bacon on a wire rack over a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to catch drips and facilitate crispiness. Adjust the cayenne pepper quantity to suit your spice preference, reducing it if you prefer a milder sweet-savory balance. Your patience during baking is key, as slow cooking at low temperature allows the sugars to caramelize perfectly without burning.
Tips
Ensure your bacon slices are evenly spaced on the wire rack to allow hot air circulation, which promotes uniform crispiness and caramelization. When mixing the brown sugar, black pepper, and cayenne, make sure the spices are well combined before sprinkling to achieve balanced seasoning on each slice. Use a sharp knife to cut the bacon after baking to prevent shredding and preserve its crispy texture. Your patience in cooling the bacon on the rack for a few minutes before cutting helps maintain its structure and enhances the melt-in-your-mouth flavor experience.
Nutritions
Million Dollar Bacon provides a rich source of protein and fat, primarily from the thick-cut applewood-smoked bacon. The brown sugar and maple syrup add simple carbohydrates, contributing to the dish's sweet flavor but also increasing calorie content. Black pepper and cayenne pepper introduce small amounts of antioxidants and metabolism-boosting compounds. When you prepare this dish, mindful portion control can help balance indulgence with your nutritional goals.
Storage
Store Million Dollar Bacon in an airtight container or wrap tightly with aluminum foil to maintain its crispy texture and sweet, smoky flavors. Refrigerate leftover bacon for up to 4 days, ensuring it cools completely before sealing. When reheating, use your oven or a toaster oven to preserve the caramelized finish without losing crunch.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute applewood-smoked bacon with hickory-smoked or peppered bacon to change the smoky profile. Instead of maple syrup, try honey or agave nectar for a different sweetness level that balances the brown sugar. For a spicier kick, increase the cayenne pepper or add smoked paprika to the sugar mixture. Using a convection oven can help your bacon crisp faster while maintaining that caramelized texture.
Allergies
Million Dollar Bacon contains ingredients that may trigger allergies, including applewood-smoked bacon, which is a pork product that some people are allergic to. Brown sugar and maple syrup are generally safe but can pose risks for those with sugar sensitivities or diabetes. Your caution is advised if you have allergies to pork, spices like cayenne or black pepper, or if you have dietary restrictions related to sugar intake.
Why this recipe?
Million Dollar Bacon at First Watch is famous for its thick-cut, applewood smoked bacon coated in a brown sugar and cayenne pepper glaze, creating a perfect balance between sweet and spicy flavors. The bacon's crispy edges and tender inside offer a unique texture that enhances any breakfast or brunch dish. You can replicate this delicious treat at home to impress your guests with gourmet flavors without the restaurant price. Making a copycat version lets you customize the spice level and sweetness to suit your personal taste preferences.