Bourbon Bacon Brittle (Sweet, Salty & Dangerously Addictive)

If you’re looking for a treat that blurs the line between candy and indulgent snack, bourbon bacon brittle is it. Crunchy, buttery, deeply caramelized, and studded with smoky bacon bits, this brittle delivers bold flavor in every bite. The splash of bourbon adds warmth and complexity without overpowering the sweet-salty balance that makes brittle irresistible.

This recipe is perfect for holidays, gifting, game days, or anytime you want a show-stopping homemade treat. It feels gourmet, a little rebellious, and completely unforgettable. Best of all, it’s easier to make than it looks — no candy thermometer required.

Bourbon bacon brittle is the kind of recipe people talk about long after the plate is empty. One bite turns skeptics into believers.

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Why You’ll Love This Bourbon Bacon Brittle

This recipe earns instant favorite status because it delivers contrast and crunch in the best way possible:

• Sweet caramelized sugar with smoky bacon
• Warm bourbon flavor without harsh alcohol bite
• Perfect balance of salty and sweet
• Crisp, shattering texture
• Ideal for gifting and entertaining

It’s candy with personality — bold, rich, and unapologetically indulgent.

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What Makes Bacon Brittle So Addictive?

Brittle relies on caramelized sugar for its signature crunch, but bacon changes the game entirely. The rendered fat and smoky notes deepen the caramel flavor, while flaky salt sharpens every bite. The bourbon adds subtle vanilla and oak notes, elevating the brittle from simple candy to something truly special.

As the sugar mixture cools, it hardens into thin, glossy sheets that snap beautifully when broken — the hallmark of perfect brittle.

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Ingredients

Each ingredient plays an important role in flavor and texture.

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup light corn syrup
• ½ cup unsalted butter
• 4 slices bacon, cooked until crisp and finely chopped
• 2 tbsp bourbon
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp flaky sea salt (plus more for topping)

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Instructions

Follow these steps carefully for perfect bourbon bacon brittle.

1. Prepare Your Pan
   Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Set aside.
2. Cook the Sugar Mixture
   In a heavy-bottom saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar, corn syrup, and butter. Stir constantly until butter melts and mixture begins to bubble.
3. Caramelize
   Continue cooking, stirring gently, until the mixture turns a deep golden amber, about 6–8 minutes.
4. Add Bacon and Bourbon
   Remove pan from heat. Carefully stir in chopped bacon, bourbon, and vanilla. The mixture will bubble vigorously.
5. Add Baking Soda
   Stir in baking soda quickly. The mixture will foam and lighten in color.
6. Spread the Brittle
   Immediately pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Spread thinly using a spatula.
7. Finish with Salt
   Sprinkle lightly with flaky sea salt while still warm.
8. Cool and Break
   Let brittle cool completely, then break into irregular pieces.

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Safety Tips for Candy Making

• Work carefully — hot sugar is extremely hot
• Keep kids and pets away while cooking
• Use a long-handled spatula
• Never touch brittle until fully cooled

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Make-Ahead, Storage & Gifting

Storage:
Store bourbon bacon brittle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.

Humidity Tip:
Keep brittle away from moisture to maintain crispness.

Gifting:
Package pieces in cellophane bags or tins for a perfect holiday or hostess gift.

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Flavor Variations

Chocolate-Dipped Bacon Brittle
Drizzle or dip cooled brittle in melted dark chocolate.

Spicy Bourbon Bacon Brittle
Add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder.

Maple Bacon Brittle
Replace bourbon with maple syrup for a breakfast-inspired twist.

Nutty Bacon Brittle
Add toasted pecans or peanuts for extra crunch.

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When to Serve Bourbon Bacon Brittle

This candy shines during:

• Holiday dessert tables
• Game day spreads
• Gift exchanges
• Cocktail parties
• Late-night snacking

It pairs beautifully with coffee, bourbon cocktails, or a glass of red wine.

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A Modern Twist on a Classic Candy

Traditional peanut brittle has been around for generations, but bacon brittle reflects modern tastes — bold flavors, savory-sweet balance, and creative twists on classics. It’s proof that even the simplest candies can evolve into something unforgettable.

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Final Thoughts

This bourbon bacon brittle is crunchy, buttery, smoky, and just a little bit boozy — the ultimate sweet-and-salty indulgence. Easy to make yet impressive enough for gifting, it’s the kind of recipe people beg you to share.

One bite, and you’ll understand why this brittle disappears fast.