Ready in: 1 hour · Serves: 12 · Technique: Baking · Storage: 2-3 days in an airtight container.
Quick Answer
These Candied Bacon BLT Sliders blend sweet and savory flavors, perfect for holiday gatherings.
Thanksgiving and Christmas in the bustling atmosphere of New York City are always special, but they can get delightfully chaotic too. When I think of holiday gatherings, I often want to blend traditional comfort food with a touch of creativity. That’s where these Candied Bacon BLT Sliders come into play. They’re perfect for festive get-togethers, providing a delightful twist on a classic. Let’s dive into the mouthwatering details!
A Delightful Holiday Treat
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Combines the classic flavors of a BLT with a sweet twist that will surprise your guests.
- Easy to assemble, making them perfect for gatherings and parties.
- Deliciously crispy candied bacon adds a gourmet touch to a beloved comfort food.
- Flexible ingredient list allows for customization based on your taste preferences.
- Perfect for holiday celebrations or casual get-togethers alike.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to make these delightful sliders:
Candied Bacon:
- 1 pound of thick-cut bacon
- 1/2 cup of brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for a bit of heat)
For the Sliders:
- 12 soft slider buns (such as brioche or potato rolls)
- 1 cup of mayonnaise
- 2 large tomatoes, sliced
- 2 cups fresh arugula or mixed greens
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
How to Make Candied Bacon BLT Sliders (Step-by-Step)
Follow these steps to create mouthwatering candied bacon BLT sliders that are sure to impress.
Step 1: Prepare the Candied Bacon
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a rack on top. In a mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, black pepper, and cayenne (if using). This setup allows the grease to drain while the bacon caramelizes beautifully.
Step 2: Coat the Bacon
Dredge each slice of bacon in the sugar mixture until well coated, then lay them on the rack. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the sugar has formed a glossy glaze. Enjoy the delightful aroma of sweet, smoky bacon filling your kitchen.
Step 3: Assemble the Sliders
Once the bacon has cooled slightly, it’s time to build these beauties. Split the slider buns in half and lightly toast them if desired. On the bottom half of each bun, spread a generous dollop of mayonnaise. Layer on the candied bacon, followed by a slice of tomato, and a handful of fresh arugula. Season with a dash of salt and black pepper for added flavor.
Step 4: Serve
Place the top half of the bun on each slider and secure with a toothpick if needed. Arrange these sliders on a platter and prepare for the compliments to roll in!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the rack while baking the bacon; it makes a huge difference in getting that crispy texture.
- Overcooking the bacon; keep an eye on the oven as bacon can go from perfect to burnt quickly, especially with the sugar coating.
- Not tasting as you go; always taste your bacon and seasonings to achieve the perfect blend of flavors.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- For an extra level of flavor, consider adding avocado slices or jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Make the candied bacon ahead of time and store it in an airtight container to streamline your preparation on the day of the gathering.
- Experiment with different types of buns; a pretzel bun could add a unique twist that complements the smoky sweetness of the bacon.
Variations
- Use turkey bacon for a leaner option.
- Swap out the mayonnaise for a spicy aioli or a different type of condiment.
- Add different types of greens, such as spinach or kale, instead of arugula.
How to Serve
- Arrange sliders on a platter for easy serving at gatherings.
- Secure sliders with toothpicks to keep them intact.
- Serve with a side of pickles or chips for added crunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Prepare the candied bacon up to 2 days in advance and store in an airtight container.
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about 2-3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes to maintain crispiness.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture of the bacon may change upon thawing.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
Testing these sliders reinforced the power of balance in flavor. The sweet, candied bacon pairs beautifully with the acidity of tomatoes and the peppery bite of arugula, creating a harmony that’s simply irresistible! Plus, they are always a hit at any holiday gathering.
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 12 sliders · Serving Size: 1 slider
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~350 calories · 12g protein · 30g carbs · 22g fat
Delicious Candied Bacon BLT Sliders for Your Holiday Gatherings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a rack on top. In a mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, black pepper, and cayenne (if using).
- Dredge each slice of bacon in the sugar mixture until well coated, then lay them on the rack. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the sugar has formed a glossy glaze.
- Once the bacon has cooled slightly, split the slider buns in half and lightly toast them if desired. Spread a generous dollop of mayonnaise on the bottom half of each bun, followed by the candied bacon, a slice of tomato, and a handful of fresh arugula. Season with a dash of salt and black pepper.
- Place the top half of the bun on each slider and secure with a toothpick if needed. Arrange these sliders on a platter.
Notes
FAQs
1. Can I make the candied bacon ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the candied bacon in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will save you time on the day of your gathering.
2. What type of buns work best for these sliders?
Soft slider buns such as brioche or potato rolls work best, but you can experiment with other types like pretzel buns for a unique flavor.
3. How do I store leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store the sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about 2-3 days. To reheat, use the oven to maintain the bacon’s crispiness.
4. Can I omit the cayenne pepper?
Yes, the cayenne pepper is optional. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can skip it entirely.
5. What can I add to the sliders for extra flavor?
Consider adding avocado slices or jalapeños for an additional layer of flavor or a spicy kick!
