Bacon Skewers with Brown Sugar Glaze

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious appetizer that will impress your family and friends, you’ve stumbled upon a gem! These Bacon Skewers with Brown Sugar Glaze are not just easy to whip up; they are also incredibly flavorful. The sweet and smoky combination is sure to satisfy any craving. Plus, they’re perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings where you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen.

What makes this recipe truly special is how simple it is to prepare. In just a few steps, you can create a dish that feels gourmet. Whether you’re hosting a game night or just want to treat your loved ones, these skewers are bound to be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time, these skewers come together in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves bacon! These skewers make for a fun finger food that kids and adults alike will enjoy.
• Deliciously Sweet & Savory: The brown sugar glaze adds a delightful sweetness that perfectly complements the smoky bacon flavor.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve them as an appetizer, snack, or even as part of a main dish!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the glaze and skewer the bacon ahead of time for an easy last-minute bake.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have at home. These components come together beautifully to create our tasty Bacon Skewers with Brown Sugar Glaze.

For the Bacon Skewers

• 1 package Original Natural Hardwood Smoked Oscar Mayer Bacon
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 tsp. cinnamon
• 2 Tbsp. apple juice

Variations

One of the best parts about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to switch things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Add Some Spice: Sprinkle in some cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a spicy kick.
• Try Different Sweeteners: Swap out brown sugar for maple syrup or honey for a unique twist.
• Vegetable Skewers: Mix in some veggies like bell peppers or zucchini between the bacon pieces for added color and nutrition.
• Herbed Glaze: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the glaze for an aromatic touch.

How to Make Bacon Skewers with Brown Sugar Glaze

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. This step is crucial because it ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect crispy texture on the bacon skewers.

Step 2: Set Up Your Baking Sheet

Line a lipped baking pan with foil—trust me, it makes cleanup so much easier! If you have one, place a metal rack on top of the foil-lined pan. This allows air to circulate around the skewers while they bake, helping them crisp up nicely.

Step 3: Make the Glaze

In a small mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, apple juice, and cinnamon. This glaze will settle into a lovely liquid as it sits. It’s important because this sweet mixture will caramelize on the bacon as it cooks, creating that irresistible flavor!

Step 4: Assemble Your Skewers

Take the bacon from the package and thread it onto your skewers. Arrange them evenly on your foiled baking sheet. The next step is key: use a spoon, fork, or basting brush to spread that delicious glaze generously over each side of the skewers. Covering all sides ensures every bite is packed with flavor.

Step 5: Bake Them Up

Place your baking sheet into the oven and cook for about 20 minutes or until your bacon reaches your desired level of crispiness. Keep an eye on them—this is when those beautiful flavors meld together!

Step 6: Let Them Cool

Once baked, carefully take out the bacon skewers from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Trust me; they will be worth waiting for!

Step 7: Ready to Serve!

Serve these delightful skewers on a platter or get creative—my favorite way is using a vase as an eye-catching centerpiece! Enjoy every scrumptious bite!

Now you’re ready to delight everyone with these amazing Bacon Skewers with Brown Sugar Glaze! Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Bacon Skewers with Brown Sugar Glaze

These bacon skewers are sure to impress, and with a few helpful tips, you can take your dish to the next level!

• Choose high-quality bacon: Using a good quality bacon enhances the flavor and ensures that your skewers are deliciously crispy. Look for bacon that is thick-cut for the best results.
• Let the glaze sit: Allowing the glaze to settle for a few minutes before applying it to the bacon will give it a better consistency, making it easier to coat each skewer evenly.
• Rotate during cooking: If you have time, rotate the skewers halfway through cooking for even crispiness. This ensures every side gets that delightful caramelization from the brown sugar glaze.
• Experiment with spices: While cinnamon adds warmth, feel free to experiment with other spices like smoked paprika or chili powder. This can elevate the flavor profile and add an exciting twist!
• Cool before serving: Letting the skewers cool for a few minutes after baking helps the glaze set and makes them easier to handle. Plus, they’re just as tasty at room temperature!

How to Serve Bacon Skewers with Brown Sugar Glaze

Presentation can elevate your bacon skewers from simple appetizers to stunning centerpieces at your gatherings. Here are some ideas on how to serve them beautifully!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs: Sprinkling chopped parsley or cilantro over your skewers adds a pop of color and freshness, enhancing both the visual appeal and flavor.
• Sesame seeds: Toasted sesame seeds sprinkled on top give a crunchy texture and a nutty flavor that complements the sweet glaze perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Crunchy coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the bacon skewers. The crispness of cabbage balances out the dish beautifully.
• Grilled vegetable platter: Colorful grilled veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus make an excellent accompaniment. Their smoky flavor complements the glazed bacon wonderfully.
• Sweet potato fries: The natural sweetness of sweet potatoes pairs nicely with the brown sugar glaze on the bacon. Plus, they add a satisfying crunch to your meal.
• Garlic bread: A side of warm garlic bread is always a crowd-pleaser! It’s perfect for soaking up any extra glaze left on your plate.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in hand, you’re all set to create an unforgettable dining experience with your Bacon Skewers with Brown Sugar Glaze. Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Bacon Skewers with Brown Sugar Glaze recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can make these delicious skewers in advance, ensuring you have a tasty and satisfying snack or appetizer ready to go. Here’s how to store and enjoy them later.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover bacon skewers in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate within two hours of cooking.
• Enjoy leftovers within 3-5 days for the best flavor and freshness.

Freezing

• Allow the cooked bacon skewers to cool completely.
• Wrap each skewer tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
• Place the frozen bacon skewers on a baking sheet lined with foil.
• Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and crisp.

FAQs

Have questions? You’re not alone! Here are some answers to common inquiries about this recipe.

Can I use turkey bacon for Bacon Skewers with Brown Sugar Glaze?

Absolutely! Turkey bacon works well as a healthier alternative while still providing that delicious smoky flavor. Just keep an eye on cooking times, as turkey bacon may require slightly less time in the oven.

How can I adjust the sweetness in Bacon Skewers with Brown Sugar Glaze?

If you prefer a less sweet glaze, simply reduce the amount of brown sugar used. You can also experiment by adding a pinch of salt or even a splash of vinegar to balance the flavors.

What other seasonings can I add to my Bacon Skewers?

Feel free to get creative! Garlic powder, paprika, or even crushed red pepper flakes can add an exciting twist. Just remember not to overpower the natural taste of the bacon!

Can I serve Bacon Skewers with Brown Sugar Glaze at parties?

Definitely! These skewers make for an impressive finger food option that guests will love. They are easy to grab and enjoy while mingling.

Final Thoughts

I hope you are as excited about these Bacon Skewers with Brown Sugar Glaze as I am! This recipe brings together sweet and savory flavors that everyone will adore, making it a standout dish at any gathering or cozy night in. Enjoy making your skewers, share them with friends and family, and don’t hesitate to come back for more delicious recipes. Happy cooking!