Man Candy: Candied Bacon and Nuts
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
10 mins
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Cook Time
25 mins
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Total Time
35 mins
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Servings
6 - 8
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Calories
443 kcal
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Course
Dessert
Man Candy: Candied Bacon and Nuts
Description
Man Candy: Candied Bacon and Nuts features small pieces of center-cut bacon baked with a brown sugar and spice coating to form caramelized, slightly crispy bacon bites. The bacon is enhanced with paprika, cayenne pepper, and lemon zest, providing mild heat and citrus notes. After partial baking, the candied bacon is stirred into a mixture of pecans and walnuts coated with brown sugar, maple syrup, and pumpkin pie spice, then baked again to candy the nuts and meld the flavors. Baking steps ensure the combination has crunchy textures and sweet-savory balance.
The spices used contribute a gentle warmth and subtle piquancy, keeping the snack lively but not overpowering. The maple syrup and brown sugar create a sticky glaze that crisps during baking. This mix can be served as an appetizer or snack, highlighting the combination of smoky bacon and sweet-spiced nuts.
According to the original notes, center-cut bacon is preferred for its lower fat content, though streaky bacon can be used with adjustment. The recipe’s heat comes from a combination of paprika and cayenne pepper, but chili powder can be substituted if pure. Pumpkin pie spice is a specific blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and ginger, giving the nuts a fall-inspired flavor. Because of the bacon's perishability, the candied mixture should be refrigerated and can keep up to three days. It’s best served at room temperature for optimal flavor and texture.
Ingredients
Candied Bacon
- 6 lices centre cut bacon about 200g / 6 oz) (Note 1, or middle bacon
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (light or normal)
- 1/2 tsp paprika (Note 2)
- 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper (Note 2)
- 1 lemon , zest only
- Pinch salt
- black pepper (3 grinds)
Candied Nuts
- 1 cup pecans , roughly chopped
- 1 cup walnuts , roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (light or normal)
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice (Note 3)
- 1/2 tsp paprika (Note 2)
- 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper (Note 2)
- 1/8 tsp black pepper
- black pepper (3 grinds)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 180C/350F.
- Line a baking tray with baking paper (parchment paper).
- Cut the bacon into 1.5cm / 0.6" pieces (remove rind if it has it).
- Combine with remaining Candied Bacon ingredients in a bowl and use your fingers to coat the bacon.
- Combine the Candied Nuts ingredients in a bowl and toss to combine.
- Spread the Candied Bacon onto a baking tray and bake for 10 minutes, or until the sugar is bubbling and the bacon is starting to turn brown (i.e. almost cooked).
- Remove the bacon from the tray using a slotted spatula (so you don't get too much bacon fat) and transfer it into the bowl with the nuts. Mix to combine.
- Use a spatula to scrape and pour the excess oil off the parchment paper (this is what I did).
- Pour the nuts back onto the baking tray and bake for 15 minutes, stirring once at half time.
- Turn the oven off and open the door slightly. Leave for at least 15 minutes, then remove and allow to cool.
- Break the candy into chunks. To store, place into an airtight container and keep in the refrigerator. (Note 4)
Notes
- Use center-cut or middle bacon for less fat; if using streaky bacon, add an extra slice to compensate for rendered fat.
- Hot Hungarian paprika or a combination of paprika and cayenne pepper delivers balanced heat; pure chili powder can be used as an alternative.
- Pumpkin pie spice consists of cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and ginger, providing a warm, aromatic flavor to the nuts.
- Store the finished candied bacon and nuts mixture in the refrigerator and consume within three days for best quality.
- Bring refrigerated mixture to room temperature before serving to enhance texture and flavor.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 6- 8
Amount Per Serving
Calories 443 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 82g | |
| Calories | 443cal | 22% |
| Carbohydrates | 21.5g | 7% |
| Protein | 16.1g | 32% |
| Fat | 34.5g | 53% |
| Saturated Fat | 5.3g | 27% |
| Cholesterol | 28mg | 9% |
| Sodium | 582mg | 24% |
| Potassium | 360mg | 8% |
| Fiber | 3.4g | 14% |
| Sugar | 16.6g | 33% |
| Vitamin A | 250IU | 5% |
| Vitamin C | 1.7mg | 2% |
| Calcium | 40mg | 4% |
| Iron | 1.8mg | 10% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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