Air Fryer Candied Bacon: A Quick, Sweet, And Salty Treat

Candied bacon is a delicious treat that can be made in an air fryer in just a few minutes. It's perfect for a sweet and salty snack, breakfast, or even as a fun twist for a Bloody Mary. The air fryer also makes cleanup a breeze, as the bacon grease drips away from the bacon and can be easily washed off. Thick-cut bacon is recommended for this recipe, as thinner bacon may burn before the sugar caramelizes. To make candied bacon in an air fryer, simply coat the bacon strips in brown sugar and air fry for 10-15 minutes until crispy.

Choosing the right bacon

Thick-cut bacon provides a better texture and a more balanced bite. It tends to have crispy outer edges while retaining a juicy center. This contrast creates a superior flavour and mouthfeel compared to regular bacon.

Regular bacon, which is thinner, can also be used, but it may not yield the same level of juiciness. It tends to get crispier faster due to its reduced thickness. This can make it more challenging to achieve the desired level of caramelization for the sugar without burning the bacon.

Additionally, thick-cut bacon is less likely to curl or move around in the air fryer due to the convection fan. This stability helps the sugar adhere better to the bacon, resulting in a more consistent coating.

If you opt for regular bacon, you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly as thinner bacon will cook faster. It is also essential to ensure that the bacon pieces do not overlap in the air fryer to ensure even cooking and caramelization.

Lastly, regardless of the type of bacon you choose, it is recommended to pat the slices dry with a paper towel if they have excess moisture. This step ensures that the sugar adheres better to the bacon during the cooking process.

Preparing the bacon

Before you begin, ensure your bacon is dry by patting the slices with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This will help the sugar coating adhere better. Now, it's time to prepare the coating. For a basic candied bacon recipe, all you need is brown sugar and black pepper. You can add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick, but this is optional.

Take a shallow dish and add your brown sugar. You can also add the black pepper and cayenne/red pepper flakes, if using, to the dish and mix them with the sugar. Take each bacon slice and press it into the sugar, ensuring both sides are well coated. You can also sprinkle the pepper on top of the sugar-coated bacon.

Once your bacon is coated, it's time to place it in the air fryer. Arrange the slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don't overlap. If your air fryer is small, you may need to cook the bacon in batches. With the bacon in the air fryer, it's time to move on to the cooking process.

Air frying the bacon is quick and easy. Set your air fryer to 350-400°F, and cook the bacon for 10-15 minutes, depending on your desired level of crispiness. For thinner bacon, keep a close eye on it, as it may cook faster. Halfway through the cooking time, flip the bacon and add more sugar if desired. Once the bacon is crispy and golden, remove it from the air fryer and place it on a cooling rack or plate to cool before serving.

Cooking time and temperature

The cooking time and temperature for candied bacon in an air fryer will depend on the type of bacon used. For example, thinner slices of bacon will likely need less cooking time than thick-cut bacon.

One source recommends pre-heating your air fryer to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Then, air fry the bacon for 5 minutes, before flipping it over and frying for another 5 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy to your liking.

Another source recommends cooking your bacon at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 minutes, and then checking if you want it any more done. If you like your bacon extra crispy, you can cook it for an additional 1-2 minutes.

A third source recommends cooking your bacon at 380 degrees Fahrenheit for 10-12 minutes.

A fourth source recommends cooking your bacon at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 15 minutes. After 7-8 minutes, flip the bacon and add the remaining sugar mixture.

It's important to note that the cooking time and temperature may vary depending on the specific air fryer model and the thickness of the bacon. It's always a good idea to keep an eye on your bacon while it's cooking to prevent overcooking or burning.

Adding flavour

One way to add flavour is to use maple syrup. You can coat the bacon in maple syrup before placing it in the air fryer, or you can drizzle it on top after cooking. Another option is to add some heat with cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes. Just a small amount of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes will give your bacon a subtle kick. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even try adding both maple syrup and cayenne pepper to your candied bacon for a sweet and spicy treat.

Additionally, you can experiment with different types of bacon. Thick-cut bacon is recommended for the best texture and to prevent the bacon from burning. However, regular bacon can also be used, but it may cook faster due to its thinner cut. You can also try using turkey bacon, which will require less cooking time.

Lastly, don't be afraid to get creative with your seasonings. In addition to cayenne pepper and red pepper flakes, you can try adding garlic powder, black pepper, or other spices to your candied bacon. Play around with different combinations to find your favourite flavour profile.

Cleaning the air fryer

It is important to keep your air fryer clean and well-maintained. Here are some tips and guidelines to help you with the cleaning process:

Unplug the Air Fryer and Allow it to Cool Down:

Before you start cleaning, make sure the air fryer is unplugged from the power source and has cooled down completely. This is important for safety reasons and to avoid any accidental burns.

Disassemble the Air Fryer:

Most air fryers have removable parts, such as the basket, tray, or rack. Carefully take these parts out of the air fryer. If your air fryer has additional accessories, such as a rotisserie or skewers, remove them as well.

Soak the Removable Parts:

Fill your sink with warm water and add a mild dish soap or detergent. Place the removable parts in the soapy water and let them soak for a while. This will help loosen any stuck-on food residue and grease.

Clean the Interior and Exterior:

Using a soft cloth or sponge, gently wipe down the interior and exterior surfaces of the air fryer. Be careful not to get any water inside the heating element or any electrical components. You can use a damp cloth to wipe away any grease or residue. For tougher stains, you can use a mild cleaning solution or a non-abrasive sponge.

Scrub the Removable Parts:

After soaking, use a soft-bristled brush or sponge to scrub the removable parts. Pay special attention to areas with built-up grease or food residue. Rinse the parts thoroughly with clean water and dry them with a soft cloth or paper towel.

Reassemble the Air Fryer:

Once all the parts are clean and dry, put them back together. Make sure they are properly secured in place.

Clean the Heating Element and Fan:

The heating element and fan are crucial components of the air fryer. Use a soft, dry cloth or brush to gently wipe away any grease or debris from these areas. Do not use water or any cleaning solutions on these parts to avoid electrical hazards.

Regular Cleaning and Maintenance:

It is recommended to clean your air fryer after each use. This will prevent a buildup of grease and food residue, making it easier to maintain. For deeper cleaning, consider doing a thorough cleaning once a month or as needed.

Dishwasher-Safe Parts:

Some air fryers have dishwasher-safe parts. Always check your air fryer's manual to see if this is an option. If so, you can place the removable parts on the top rack of your dishwasher and use a gentle cycle with a mild detergent.

Avoid Abrasive Cleaners:

Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaning tools, as they can damage the non-stick coating on the air fryer basket and other parts. Mild dish soap or detergents are usually sufficient for effective cleaning.

Use Baking Soda for Tough Stains:

For stubborn stains or burnt-on food residue, create a paste of baking soda and water. Apply this paste to the affected areas and let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing gently with a soft-bristled brush. Rinse and dry thoroughly afterward.

By following these steps, you can keep your air fryer clean and in good working condition. Regular cleaning will not only ensure that your food tastes better but also prolong the lifespan of your appliance.

Frequently asked questions