Twisted bacon has become a TikTok favorite — and it’s easy to see why. This sweet-and-spicy version is perfect for appetizers, holiday spreads, snacks, or a special breakfast.
I jumped on the trend as soon as I saw it because bacon is always a crowd-pleaser. The recipe is simple and makes a beautiful holiday appetizer — the balance of sweet and heat is just right.
Ingredient notes: most items are pantry staples and easy to find. Scroll to the recipe card for exact measurements.
Ingredient Notes
- Thick-cut bacon: Choose a good-quality cut. If possible, pick nitrate- and sugar-free bacon — it pairs well with the added glaze.
- Coconut sugar: An optional swap for brown sugar; brown sugar works just as well.
- Fresh cracked black pepper: Freshly cracked pepper adds more flavor than pre-ground.
- Cayenne pepper: Adds heat. Adjust to taste.
- Maple syrup: Adds a richer sweetness that complements the bacon and spices.
How To Make Twisted Bacon
Prep: Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment and preheat the oven to 350°F. Lay bacon strips in a single layer.
Mix: Combine the coconut or brown sugar, fresh cracked black pepper, cayenne, and maple syrup in a shallow bowl. Sprinkle and press the mixture into both sides of each bacon strip.
Twist: From the top of each strip, twist tightly to form a spiral rod. Place the twisted strips on the prepared sheet without overcrowding.
Bake: Bake at 350°F for 34–38 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the bacon is crisp. Cooking time will vary with thickness. Transfer finished bacon to a paper towel–lined plate or cooling rack to drain excess fat. Serve warm or at room temperature.
What Kind of Bacon Should I Use?
Quality matters more than brand. Thick-cut bacon works best for this recipe; it holds the twist and crisps nicely. I prefer nitrate- and sugar-free when available, but regular thick-cut bacon will also work. If you want a leaner alternative, turkey bacon can be twisted and cooked the same way, though crisping times may differ slightly.
Twisted Bacon in the Air Fryer
Air frying is a fast, effective option. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F for about 5 minutes. Arrange twisted bacon in a single layer in the basket (no overlap) and air fry for 8–15 minutes, depending on thickness, until crispy.
Recipe FAQs
Why twist bacon?
Twisting creates a decorative spiral and can produce a crisper texture than flat strips. The spiral shape also helps channel and drain fat as the bacon cooks, which can reduce excess grease in the finished pieces.
How do I reheat bacon in the oven?
Reheat on a lined baking sheet at 350°F for 5–10 minutes, or until heated through and crisped to your liking.
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven or toaster oven for 5–10 minutes on a lined baking sheet until warmed and crisp. Leftover twisted bacon is great as a snack, in a BLT, alongside eggs, or dropped into a cocktail like a Bloody Mary.
If you make this recipe, consider leaving a star rating and a review so others can find it and enjoy your feedback.
More Bacon Recipes
Try these other bacon ideas next time you want a crowd-pleasing treat:
- Bacon wrapped dates
- Bourbon bacon brittle
- Bourbon bacon jam
Sweet and Spicy Twisted Bacon
Ingredients
- 1 lb thick-cut bacon (nitrate- and sugar-free if possible)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar or coconut sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F and line a large rimmed baking sheet with foil or parchment. In a small bowl, combine the sugar, black pepper, cayenne, and maple syrup.
- Lay bacon strips flat on the prepared sheet. Sprinkle the sugar mixture onto one side of each strip and press it in with the back of a spoon.
- Twist each bacon strip tightly from the top to form a spiral rod. Place the twists on the sheet without overlapping. Bake for 34–38 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crisp. Transfer to a paper towel–lined plate to drain and serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
Air fryer: Preheat to 350°F for 5 minutes. Place twisted bacon in a single layer and air fry 8–15 minutes until crispy — time depends on thickness.
Bacon: Thick-cut is preferred but regular bacon will work; adjust cooking time accordingly.
Aluminum foil: Lining the sheet with foil helps catch grease and makes cleanup easier.
To store: Refrigerate in an airtight container up to 5 days. Reheat at 350°F for 5–10 minutes to crisp.
Video
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be used as an approximation.