This technique involves coating the bacon in a sweet and slightly spicy mixture and then twisting it before baking. The twisting creates a unique, chewy and crispy texture, while the oven-baking renders the fat perfectly and caramelizes the sugary coating.

Yields: 12-16 twists Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 25-35 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of standard-cut bacon (avoid thick-cut as it won’t twist as easily)
• 1/2 cup brown sugar (light or dark will work)
• 1 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground is best)
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper or smoked paprika (optional, for a little heat)

Equipment:

• Baking sheet
• Wire cooling rack that fits inside the baking sheet
• Tongs
• Shallow dish or plate

Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the wire rack inside the baking sheet. This setup is crucial as it allows the hot air to circulate around the bacon, ensuring it cooks evenly and the fat drips away, resulting in a crispier final product.
2. Create the “Candy” Coating: In a shallow dish or on a plate, mix together the brown sugar, black pepper, and cayenne pepper or paprika, if using.
3. Twist the Bacon: Take one slice of bacon and, holding both ends, twist it tightly from end to end. It should look like a rope.
4. Dredge in Sugar Mixture: Roll the bacon twist in the brown sugar mixture, ensuring it is evenly coated on all sides.
5. Arrange on the Rack: Place the sugar-coated bacon twist on the wire rack. Repeat with the remaining bacon slices, leaving a little space between each twist.
6. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for 25-35 minutes. The timing can vary depending on the thickness of your bacon and your oven’s performance. The bacon is done when it is deep golden-brown and the sugar coating has caramelized. Keep a close eye on it towards the end of the cooking time, as the sugar can go from caramelized to burnt quickly.
7. Cool and Crisp: Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Let the bacon twists cool on the wire rack for at least 10 minutes. As they cool, they will harden and become crisp.
8. Serve: Once cooled, the candied bacon twists are ready to be enjoyed. They can be served warm or at room temperature.

This method elevates bacon into a truly special treat that is sure to impress.