If you love desserts that walk the fine line between indulgent sweetness and savory depth, Bourbon Bacon Brittle deserves a permanent place in your recipe collection. This crave-worthy candy blends crisp bacon, rich caramelized sugar, and a subtle bourbon kick into a brittle that shatters beautifully and melts on the tongue. It is bold, addictive, and surprisingly easy to make at home.

Brittle has long been a classic American candy, traditionally made with sugar, butter, and nuts. But modern variations like bacon brittle elevate the concept into something truly unforgettable. The smoky saltiness of bacon cuts through the sweetness of the caramel, while bourbon adds warmth, complexity, and just a hint of sophistication.

Whether you are preparing holiday gifts, planning a dessert table, or simply looking for a next-level snack, this bourbon bacon brittle recipe delivers on every level.

Why Bourbon and Bacon Work So Well Together

Bacon and bourbon share complementary flavor profiles that make them a natural pairing. Bacon brings smoky, salty, and umami notes, while bourbon contributes caramel, vanilla, oak, and spice undertones. When cooked into a brittle, these flavors meld into a perfectly balanced candy that never feels one-note.

The alcohol itself cooks off during the process, leaving behind only the rich essence of bourbon. This makes the brittle family-friendly in flavor while still feeling grown-up and refined.

What Makes This Bourbon Bacon Brittle Special

Perfect texture: Crisp, glassy brittle that snaps cleanly without sticking to your teeth
Balanced flavor: Sweet caramel, smoky bacon, and warm bourbon notes
No candy thermometer required: Simple visual cues guide you to success
Versatile: Ideal for gifting, entertaining, or everyday snacking

This is the kind of recipe people ask for after one bite.

Ingredients

Granulated sugar
Light corn syrup
Unsalted butter
Cooked bacon, chopped
Bourbon
Vanilla extract
Baking soda
Flaky sea salt (for finishing)

Each ingredient plays a specific role. Sugar and corn syrup create the brittle base, butter adds richness, bacon provides savory crunch, bourbon deepens flavor, and baking soda creates that signature airy snap.

Instructions

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat and set aside.
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar, corn syrup, and butter. Stir gently until melted.
Continue cooking without stirring until the mixture turns a deep amber color, swirling the pan occasionally for even caramelization.
Remove the saucepan from heat and carefully stir in the bourbon and vanilla extract. The mixture will bubble vigorously.
Quickly fold in the chopped cooked bacon.
Sprinkle baking soda over the mixture and stir briefly. The brittle will foam and lighten in texture.
Immediately pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread thin using a heatproof spatula.
Sprinkle with flaky sea salt while still warm.
Allow the brittle to cool completely at room temperature until hardened.
Break into shards and serve or store.

Pro Tips for Perfect Bacon Brittle

Use thick-cut bacon for the best texture and flavor
Cook bacon until very crisp to prevent chewiness
Watch the caramel closely; color matters more than time
Work quickly after adding baking soda; brittle sets fast
Do not refrigerate; moisture can cause stickiness

Flavor Variations You’ll Love

Maple Bourbon Bacon Brittle: Replace part of the sugar with maple sugar
Spicy Bacon Brittle: Add cayenne or smoked paprika
Chocolate-Dipped Bacon Brittle: Drizzle or dip in dark chocolate
Nutty Twist: Add toasted pecans or almonds

Each variation builds on the same base, giving you endless creative options.

Serving Suggestions

Serve alongside coffee or espresso
Crumble over vanilla ice cream
Add to dessert boards or charcuterie platters
Package in jars or bags for edible gifts

This brittle is especially popular during fall and winter holidays, but it shines year-round.

Storage and Shelf Life

Store bourbon bacon brittle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. Keep it away from humidity and heat to maintain its crisp snap.

A Brief Cultural Note on Brittle

Brittle candy has roots in early American confectionery, prized for its long shelf life and simple ingredients. Modern twists like bacon brittle reflect today’s love for sweet-savory contrasts and bold flavor experimentation.

Final Thoughts

Bourbon Bacon Brittle is more than a candy; it is a statement dessert. It is indulgent, unexpected, and deeply satisfying. Once you master this recipe, it will become a go-to favorite for holidays, gifting, and those moments when you want something truly special.

Bourbon Bacon Brittle

A crisp, sweet-and-salty brittle made with smoky bacon, rich caramel, and warm bourbon notes.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 20

Total Time 30

Servings: 8 pieces

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American, Autumn

Calories: 180