Bacon Ends Recipe: A Smoky, Sweet, & Savory Treat
This easy Bacon Ends Recipe transforms leftover bacon ends into irresistible bacon burnt ends – a smoky, sweet, and savory appetizer perfect for any gathering. With crispy, caramelized edges and a melt-in-your-mouth interior, these bacon burnt ends are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you're a seasoned pitmaster or a grilling newbie, this recipe will elevate your snack game and become a favorite at your next party.
Ingredients
- Thick-cut bacon ends or slab bacon, cut into 1-inch cubes
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper optional
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- Your favorite BBQ rub
- BBQ sauce for glazing
Instructions
- Prep the Bacon: Start by cutting thick-cut bacon ends (or a slab of bacon) into 1-inch cubes. This size ensures a perfect balance between crispy edges and a tender, melt-in-your-mouth center.
- Create the Spice Rub: In a mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup of brown sugar, 1 tablespoon of smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder and onion powder, 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (optional for heat), and 1 teaspoon of black pepper. This spice blend will add a symphony of sweet, smoky, and savory notes to your bacon.
- Coat the Bacon: Toss the bacon cubes in the spice rub until they are thoroughly coated. Make sure to use your hands to ensure every nook and cranny gets a good dusting of the spice mixture.
- Rest the Bacon: Allow the coated bacon cubes to rest for about 30 minutes. This resting period helps the flavors meld and penetrate the meat, resulting in a deeper, more complex taste.
- Prepare the Smoker/Grill: Set up your smoker or grill for indirect heat and preheat it to a steady temperature between 225°F and 250°F (107°C to 121°C). If you are using a smoker, choose fruitwoods like apple or cherry for a sweet and mellow smoke that complements the bacon's natural richness.
- Smoke the Bacon: Place the bacon cubes on the smoker or grill and let them cook for about 2-3 hours. Check on them every hour, and if necessary, give them a light spritz of apple juice or cider vinegar to keep them moist. As the bacon cooks, the fat will render and the sugars in the rub will caramelize, creating a delicious "bark."
- Glaze the Bacon: About 30 minutes before the bacon is done, brush the cubes generously with your favorite BBQ sauce. The heat will help the sauce thicken and create a sticky, finger-licking glaze that enhances the bacon's flavor.
- Serve: Once the bacon burnt ends are done, remove them from the smoker or grill. Serve them hot as an appetizer, in sliders, on top of baked potatoes, or as a delectable topping for mac and cheese. Enjoy the smoky, sweet, and savory flavors that these bacon burnt ends bring to your table.
Notes
- Feel free to experiment with different types of bacon and BBQ rubs to customize the flavor.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add more cayenne pepper or other hot spices to the rub.
- For a sweeter touch, drizzle maple syrup or honey over the bacon before glazing.
- These bacon burnt ends can be served on their own, in sliders, on baked potatoes, or as a topping for mac and cheese.