If you’ve ever tasted Billionaire’s Bacon, you know it’s not just bacon—it’s an experience. This sweet, spicy, and caramelized treat has earned its name by transforming a breakfast staple into a luxurious indulgence. Popularized by Twin Peaks restaurants, this bacon isn’t your ordinary side dish; it’s a showstopper that’s perfect for brunch, snacks, or even a party appetizer.
Billionaire’s Bacon Twin Peaks Recipe
Let’s dive into creating Billionaire’s Bacon, the ultimate blend of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors inspired by the famous Twin Peaks. This recipe will guide you step-by-step to achieve perfectly caramelized, candied bacon. Grab your apron, and let’s get started!
Ingredients
- 12 slices of thick-cut bacon (high-quality, for better texture and taste)
- 1/3 cup of brown sugar (packed)
- 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (adjust for spice level)
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper (freshly ground enhances the flavor)
- 1/4 cup of maple syrup (pure for the best taste and glaze)
Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Aluminum foil
- Wire rack
- Silicone brush (for even maple syrup application)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat the oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup, and place a wire rack on top to allow air circulation under the bacon.
Step 2: Mix the Seasoning Blend
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, cayenne pepper, and black pepper. Stir the mixture until evenly distributed. This creates a perfect balance between sweetness and heat.
Step 3: Arrange the Bacon
Lay the bacon slices in a single layer on the wire rack, ensuring they do not overlap to allow even cooking.
Step 4: Coat the Bacon
Sprinkle the sugar and spice mixture evenly over both sides of each bacon slice. Use your fingers to gently press the mixture onto the surface for better adhesion.
Step 5: Bake the Bacon
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for 15 minutes.
Step 6: Brush with Maple Syrup
Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Using a silicone brush, lightly coat each slice of bacon with maple syrup.
Step 7: Caramelize the Bacon
Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the bacon is glossy, caramelized, and slightly crispy. Watch closely to prevent burning, as sugar caramelizes quickly.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Carefully remove the bacon from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes on the wire rack. The bacon will firm up as it cools, creating a delightful crunchy texture.
Serving Suggestions
This indulgent treat pairs beautifully with:
| Serving Ideas | Notes |
|---|---|
| Brunch Spread | Serve alongside pancakes, waffles, or eggs. |
| Appetizer Platter | Cut into smaller pieces and add to a charcuterie board. |
| Cocktail Garnish | Add to Bloody Marys for a touch of smoky, spicy flavor. |
Ingredients
Creating Billionaire’s Bacon at home is simple with a handful of essential ingredients. Each component plays a role in achieving that perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and crispy caramelization that makes this dish irresistible. Here’s what we need:
- 12 slices thick-cut bacon (preferably uncured for added texture and flavor)
- 1/3 cup brown sugar (light or dark, depending on your preferred depth of sweetness)
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjustable for desired heat level)
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup (for a rich, glossy glaze)
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (if adding a subtle smoky flavor appeals to you)
Pro tip: Opt for high-quality bacon with an even fat-to-meat ratio for the best results. The thickness ensures it caramelizes perfectly without becoming overly crisp.
Ingredient Measurements Summary
| Ingredient | Measurement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Thick-Cut Bacon | 12 slices | Uncured recommended for richness |
| Brown Sugar | 1/3 cup | Use light or dark to customize flavor |
| Cayenne Pepper | 1/2 tsp | Adjust for mild or intense heat |
| Ground Black Pepper | 1/4 tsp | Adds a bold, savory contrast |
| Pure Maple Syrup | 2 tbsp | For sweet and glossy texture |
| Optional: Smoked Paprika | 1/4 tsp | Optional for a smoky undertone |
Tools And Equipment
Crafting Billionaire’s Bacon to perfection requires the right tools. Having these essential items on hand will ensure the bacon cooks evenly, caramelizes beautifully, and delivers that signature crispness. Here’s a breakdown of what we’ll need:
Kitchen Essentials
- Baking Sheet: Use a large, rimmed baking sheet to prevent any drippings from spilling into the oven. A rimmed edge also helps retain the caramelized syrup on the bacon.
- Wire Rack: A wire rack allows air to circulate around the bacon, ensuring even crisping and preventing it from sitting in excess grease.
- Parchment Paper: Lining the baking sheet with parchment paper makes cleanup effortless and keeps any melted sugar from sticking.
- Measuring Spoons and Cups: Precise measurements of ingredients like brown sugar, cayenne, and syrup are key to balancing flavors perfectly.
- Silicone Spatula or Spoon: Ideal for mixing the sugar-spice blend without clumping and spreading the mixture evenly onto the bacon.
- Tongs: Helpful for flipping and handling the bacon without breaking it.
Optional but Useful Tools
- Knife and Cutting Board: For trimming excess fat from the bacon, if needed.
- Oven Thermometer: Ensures your oven temperature remains consistent for optimal caramelization.
Quick Reference Table
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Baking Sheet | Catches drippings and provides a stable surface for cooking. |
| Wire Rack | Elevates the bacon for even cooking and crispness. |
| Parchment Paper | Ensures easy cleanup and prevents sticking or burning of sugar. |
| Measuring Tools | Provides accuracy for sweet and spicy seasoning. |
| Silicone Spatula | Aids in an even spread of the sugar mixture. |
| Tongs | Safely handles hot bacon during cooking. |
By equipping ourselves with these essential tools, we can create the beautifully caramelized Billionaire’s Bacon at home, emulating the Twin Peaks restaurant experience right in our own kitchen.
Directions
Follow these step-by-step directions to make your own Billionaire’s Bacon just as indulgent, crispy, and caramelized as the one served at Twin Peaks. With the perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and smoky flavors, this recipe guarantees mouthwatering results.
Prep
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature ensures the bacon cooks evenly without burning the sugar glaze.
- Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Then, place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet for even air circulation.
- Lay out 12 slices of thick-cut bacon in a single layer on the wire rack, ensuring no overlap. Use high-quality bacon with an even fat-to-meat ratio for superior results. If needed, trim excess fat.
Cook The Bacon
- Place the bacon in the preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes.
- While it cooks, monitor closely to ensure it doesn’t crisp too early since the glaze will be added later.
Prepare The Glaze
- In a small bowl, combine the following for the glaze:
- 1/3 cup of brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons of pure maple syrup
Optional: Add 1/4 teaspoon of smoked paprika for a subtle smoky kick.
- Mix the ingredients thoroughly using a silicone spatula until a smooth, sticky glaze forms.
| Glaze Ingredients | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Brown Sugar | 1/3 cup |
| Cayenne Pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Black Pepper | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Pure Maple Syrup | 2 tablespoons |
| Optional: Smoked Paprika | 1/4 teaspoon |
Coat And Finish The Bacon
- Remove the partially cooked bacon from the oven. Using tongs, carefully flip each slice.
- Using a silicone spatula or brush, generously coat one side of each bacon slice with the glaze.
- Flip the bacon back, then coat the other side with the glaze for even caramelization.
- Return the glazed bacon to the oven and bake for an additional 8–10 minutes, or until the bacon becomes crispy and the glaze caramelizes to a golden-brown perfection.
- Once done, carefully remove the baking sheet and transfer the bacon to a clean wire rack to cool for 5 minutes. This step ensures the glaze sets, creating that iconic sticky texture.
Make-Ahead Tips
Preparing Billionaire’s Bacon in advance is simple and ensures it’s ready to impress during meals or gatherings. Here are our key make-ahead tips for making your cooking process smoother while maintaining the indulgent flavors and texture.
1. Pre-cook the Bacon
- We recommend partially cooking the bacon for the initial bake (around 8–10 minutes at 375°F) without adding the glaze.
- Once cooled, store the partially cooked bacon in an airtight container or resealable bag in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- When you’re ready to serve, preheat the oven and finish glazing and baking the bacon to ensure it’s caramelized, crispy, and fresh.
2. Prepare the Glaze Ahead of Time
- Mix the brown sugar, maple syrup, cayenne pepper, and black pepper in a bowl.
- Store the glaze in an airtight jar or container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Before using, give it a good stir as some separation might naturally occur.
3. Storage Tips for Completely Cooked Bacon
- If you decide to cook the Billionaire’s Bacon entirely in advance, allow it to cool and ensure the glaze fully sets.
- Once it’s cooled, place the bacon on parchment paper to prevent sticking and layer it in an airtight container.
| Storage Method | Shelf Life | Tips for Best Results |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerated (airtight) | Up to 3 days | Keep layers separated with parchment or wax paper to avoid sticking. |
| Frozen (airtight or vacuum) | Up to 1 month | Reheat at a low oven temperature directly from frozen for crispiness. |
4. Reheating Tips
- To reheat, preheat the oven to 325°F. Place the bacon on a wire rack over a baking sheet and warm for about 5–7 minutes.
- For a crispier texture, broil it for the last 30 seconds, keeping an eye on it to avoid burning.
By following these make-ahead tips, we can reduce prep time and still enjoy the signature sweet and spicy glaze, sticky caramelized texture, and impressive flavors this recipe delivers.
Serving Suggestions
Billionaire’s Bacon is an incredibly versatile treat that can easily elevate any dining experience. Its sweet, spicy, and caramelized flavors lend themselves to a variety of creative pairings and plating ideas. Here are some of our favorite ways to serve this indulgent indulgence:
1. Brunch Showstopper
Pair Billionaire’s Bacon with classic breakfast dishes for an elevated brunch spread. Serve it alongside fluffy buttermilk pancakes, golden waffles, or a hearty stack of French toast. For a savory option, pair it with scrambled eggs, an avocado toast, or a veggie-packed omelet to balance the sweetness.
Pro Tip: Add a drizzle of maple syrup over your pancakes or waffles, allowing its sweetness to complement the rich, caramelized bacon.
2. Cocktail Garnish
Turn heads at your next gathering by using Billionaire’s Bacon as a unique cocktail garnish. The crisp, sticky texture tastes amazing when paired with smoky or bourbon-based drinks. It’s particularly delightful with an Old Fashioned or a Bloody Mary.
| Cocktails | Garnish Placement Idea |
|---|---|
| Old Fashioned | Swirl a bacon strip inside the glass. |
| Bloody Mary | Add as a stir stick replacement. |
| Maple Bacon Whiskey Sour | Place across the rim for décor!. |
3. Appetizer Extravagance
Cut the Billionaire’s Bacon into bite-sized pieces and skewer onto toothpicks for beautiful, sticky appetizers. Alternatively, wrap bacon pieces around dates or jalapeños before caramelizing in the glaze for a sweet-and-spicy contrast.
Serve On: A wooden board or small plates with colorful garnishes like fresh herbs or a side of dipping sauce.
4. Salad Enhancer
Crumble chilled Billionaire’s Bacon over salads for an unexpected upgrade. Toss it into an arugula or spinach salad with goat cheese, candied pecans, and a tangy balsamic dressing to balance the flavors while adding crunch.
5. Sweet & Savory Dessert
Surprise guests by showcasing this bacon in desserts. Try crumbling it over vanilla ice cream, dipping it in melted chocolate, or incorporating it into a maple-bacon cookie dough for a unique treat.
6. Game-Day Snack
Arrange strips of Billionaire’s Bacon on a platter alongside crispy potato chips, cheese cubes, and crackers for a luxurious take on game-day snacks. Add a tangy dipping sauce like ranch or spicy aioli for extra flavor.
Make it Memorable: Offer a range of dips and label the platter for the perfect Instagram-worthy snack board!
With all these options, Billionaire’s Bacon isn’t just a dish—it’s an experience. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, shaking up cocktails, or revamping your snack game, this indulgent recipe will have everyone begging for more.
Conclusion
Billionaire’s Bacon isn’t just a recipe; it’s a statement piece for any meal or gathering. Its perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and smoky flavors makes it an unforgettable treat that elevates any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for brunch, as a cocktail garnish, or as a game-day snack, this indulgent dish is guaranteed to impress.
With its simple preparation and luxurious taste, Billionaire’s Bacon is an experience worth recreating. So let’s grab our ingredients, fire up the oven, and bring a touch of decadence to our table.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Billionaire’s Bacon?
Billionaire’s Bacon is a decadent twist on traditional bacon, featuring a sweet, spicy, and caramelized glaze. It originated from Twin Peaks restaurants and is often enjoyed as a brunch item, snack, or gourmet appetizer.
What ingredients are needed to make Billionaire’s Bacon?
You’ll need thick-cut bacon, brown sugar, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and maple syrup. These ingredients combine to create the dish’s signature flavor.
How do you make Billionaire’s Bacon?
Prepare by baking the bacon for 10 minutes, then brush both sides with a glaze made of brown sugar, cayenne, black pepper, and maple syrup. Bake for another 8–10 minutes until crispy and sticky.
What tools do I need to make Billionaire’s Bacon?
Essential tools include a large rimmed baking sheet, a wire rack, parchment paper, and measuring spoons. These help achieve even cooking and a perfect glaze coating.
Can I prepare Billionaire’s Bacon ahead of time?
Yes! You can partially cook the bacon or prepare the glaze in advance. Store partially cooked bacon in the refrigerator and finish baking when ready to serve.
How do I store and reheat Billionaire’s Bacon?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for a few minutes to regain crispiness.
What are some serving ideas for Billionaire’s Bacon?
Billionaire’s Bacon is versatile—pair it with pancakes for breakfast, use it as a garnish for cocktails like Bloody Marys, or serve it as a snack or appetizer at gatherings.
Is high-quality bacon necessary for this recipe?
Yes, high-quality thick-cut bacon is recommended for the best texture and flavor. It holds up better during baking and enhances the overall dish.
Can I adjust the spice level in Billionaire’s Bacon?
Absolutely! Reduce or increase the cayenne pepper to suit your preferred spice level, or omit it altogether if you prefer a purely sweet flavor.
What are some creative uses for Billionaire’s Bacon?
Aside from brunch or appetizers, you can crumble it over salads, add it to desserts like chocolate brownies, or serve it as a gourmet game-day snack.