Bourbon Bacon Brittle – Sweet, Salty, Smoky, and Dangerously Addictive
Bourbon bacon brittle is one of those treats that makes people stop mid-bite and say, “Wait… what is this?” It’s sweet, salty, smoky, buttery, and just a little boozy in the best possible way. The kind of candy that feels grown-up and indulgent, perfect for gifting, sharing, or secretly keeping all to yourself.
Classic peanut brittle has been around forever, but adding bacon and bourbon takes it into a whole new realm. Crispy bacon brings smoky saltiness, while bourbon adds warmth, caramel notes, and depth that pairs beautifully with the amber sugar base. Together, they create a brittle that’s bold, balanced, and completely irresistible.
This recipe is surprisingly simple, but it does demand a bit of attention—brittle always does. Watching sugar melt and turn golden feels a little magical, and when you stir in butter, bacon, and bourbon, the aroma alone is enough to convince you it’s worth every second. A final sprinkle of flaky sea salt ties everything together, amplifying both the sweetness and the savory notes.
Bourbon bacon brittle is especially perfect around the holidays. It makes an unforgettable edible gift, tucked into jars or cellophane bags with ribbon. It’s also a standout addition to dessert boards, cheese platters, or even crumbled over ice cream for a sweet-salty crunch.
What makes this brittle so special is contrast. It shatters when you bite into it, then melts into buttery caramel with smoky bacon in every piece. The bourbon doesn’t overpower—it simply rounds out the sweetness and adds warmth that lingers just long enough to make you reach for another shard.
If you love desserts that walk the line between sweet and savory, simple and bold, this bourbon bacon brittle is a must-make. It’s fun, unexpected, and guaranteed to disappear fast.
Ingredients:
- Granulated sugar
- Light corn syrup
- Water
- Unsalted butter
- Cooked bacon, chopped
- Bourbon
- Vanilla extract
- Baking soda
- Flaky sea salt
Instructions:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Set aside.
- In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water over medium heat. Stir until sugar dissolves.
- Stop stirring and cook until the mixture turns a deep amber color, about 8–10 minutes.
- Carefully stir in butter until melted and fully incorporated.
- Add chopped bacon and bourbon, stirring quickly.
- Remove from heat and immediately stir in vanilla and baking soda (the mixture will foam).
- Pour the brittle onto the prepared baking sheet and spread thinly with a spatula.
- Sprinkle generously with flaky sea salt.
- Let cool completely until hardened, then break into shards.
Bourbon Bacon Brittle
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook sugar, corn syrup, and water until amber.
- Stir in butter, bacon, and bourbon.
- Add vanilla and baking soda off heat.
- Spread onto baking sheet and sprinkle with salt.
- Cool completely and break into pieces.
Notes
Tips & Tricks
- Have all ingredients measured and ready before starting—brittle moves fast.
- Use thick-cut bacon for better texture and flavor.
- Watch the sugar closely to avoid burning.
Variations
- Add chopped pecans or peanuts for extra crunch.
- Use maple syrup instead of corn syrup for a deeper flavor.
- Try smoked sea salt for an extra savory finish.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as a stand-alone candy or on a dessert board.
- Crumble over vanilla ice cream or brownies.
- Pair with sharp cheese like aged cheddar.
Storage Information
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- Keep away from moisture to prevent stickiness.
FAQ
- Does the alcohol cook off? Most of it does, leaving behind flavor.
- Can I make this without bourbon? Yes—replace with water or apple cider.
- Why add baking soda? It creates air bubbles, giving brittle its light, crisp texture.
History / Fun Facts
- Brittle is one of the oldest forms of candy, dating back centuries.
- Bacon desserts surged in popularity as part of the sweet-and-savory food trend.
