Bacon Twists (Viral TikTok Recipe)

Craving a snack that dances between sweet, spicy, and savory? Meet viral TikTok bacon twists!

These spiraled strips of deliciousness blend bacon’s rich smokiness with sweet brown sugar and a whisper of cayenne.

Each twist is a perfect balance of crispy texture and complex flavor.

Serve them at your next party, sit back, and let the compliments roll in.

Why You’ll Love These Bacon Twists

Savory-Sweet Combo: Caramelized brown sugar and a hint of cayenne bring the perfect flavor balance.

Stunning Appearance: The spiral shape enhances their texture and makes for an attractive presentation. People will comment on them long before they taste them. 

Versatile Serving: They work well for breakfast, brunch, snacking, or as a party appetizer. You really can’t go wrong!

Make Ahead: You can prepare these twists in advance and reheat them quickly. That makes them a terrific option for holiday entertaining.

Ingredients

• Thick-Cut Bacon: The hearty base. I recommend thick-cut so they don’t break apart or burn.

• Brown Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a caramelized glaze on the bacon.

• Cayenne Pepper: Introduces a spicy kick and balances the sweetness. Add as much or as little as you prefer.

How to Make Bacon Twists

This recipe is the ultimate flavor adventure! With just two ingredients, you can transform ordinary bacon into an irresistible treat.

And they’re a conversation starter to boot!

Here are the steps:

1. PREHEAT the oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment or foil.

2. MIX the brown sugar and cayenne pepper in a small bowl until evenly combined.

3. TWIST each bacon slice tightly into spirals. Arrange closely on the baking sheet to prevent unraveling.

4. SPRINKLE the spiced sugar evenly over the top and press gently to adhere.

5. BAKE for 20 minutes. Flip the bacon and bake for another 20 minutes, until crispy and caramelized.

6. COOL the twists for 5 minutes before serving warm. Enjoy!

Tips for the Best Bacon Twists

My kitchen smells absolutely heavenly right now, and these crispy, sweet-and-spicy spirals are disappearing faster than I can plate them.

Seriously, you should make extra – you’ll need it!

Check out these tips before you begin:

• Most bacon varieties work. Thick-cut bacon is my go-to because it’ll hold its shape better and is less likely to burn. That said, you can use regular bacon if you reduce the oven time. 

• Use toothpicks if needed. Bacon is pretty easy to twist. But if your spirals aren’t holding, secure the ends with toothpicks and remove them before serving. 

• Monitor them closely. Crystallizing sugar can burn quickly. So, keep an eye on them during the last 5-10 minutes.

• Remember to rest. Cool the bacon for about 5 minutes before serving to give the sugar time to harden.

• Use the air fryer instead. Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit in a single layer for 8-15 minutes, depending on thickness. 

• Try flavor variations. Experiment with different spices, such as cinnamon, nutmeg, or dry mustard. Or try using honey or maple syrup for a different flavor. 

Serving Suggestions

These bacon twists are terrific appetizers and simple snacks. They can also be enjoyed as part of a breakfast meal or on a charcuterie board.

Additionally, they work nicely in place of regular bacon on breakfast sandwiches.

Or simply pair them with dipping sauces, such as:

• Honey mustard
• BBQ sauce
• Ranch
• Maple syrup

How to Store

Though bacon twists may not be as crispy after storing, they’ll still taste great. 

To Store: Place cooled leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for 3-4 days.

To Freeze: Flash freeze cooled leftovers until solid, then transfer them to a resealable freezer bag for up to 3 months.

To Reheat: For best results, reheat bacon twists in the oven at 375 degrees for 5 to 7 minutes. Or use a microwave on high in 20-second intervals until heated through.

More Bacon Recipes You Have to Try

Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus
Million Dollar Bacon
Bacon Wrapped Scallops
Maple Bacon Crack