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This candied bacon BLT slider combines sweet brown sugar coated bacon with fresh lettuce and tomato on garlic butter toasted slider buns for an unforgettable bite. The balance of smoky, sweet, and savory flavors makes it perfect for parties or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
- Thick-cut bacon: provides a sturdy base for the caramelized sugar coating and stays crispy without burning
- Dark brown sugar: adds rich molasses sweetness that white sugar cannot match, avoid substitutes
- Hawaiian slider buns: are soft and slightly sweet, making the perfect vessel; regular buns work but less special
- Fresh Roma tomatoes: hold their shape better and prevent soggy sliders compared to larger tomatoes
- Real unsalted butter: is essential for the garlic spread, margarine or substitutes won’t give the same flavor
- Smoked paprika: brings a smoky depth that regular paprika cannot replicate, elevating the bacon’s flavor
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Getting the Bacon Ready:
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top to allow fat to drain and bacon to crisp evenly.
- Mix the Sugar and Spices:
- Combine dark brown sugar, smoked paprika, black pepper, and cayenne pepper in a bowl until no clumps remain for an even coating.
- Coating the Bacon:
- Arrange bacon slices on the wire rack without overlapping. Generously rub the sugar mixture onto both sides of each slice ensuring it sticks well to all edges.
- Baking the Bacon:
- Bake the bacon for 15 minutes, then carefully flip each slice and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until edges are dark and sugar is glossy and caramelized. Allow to cool completely before cutting.
- Preparing the Garlic Butter:
- Mix softened butter with minced garlic and chopped parsley. This flavorful spread will elevate the buns to the next level.
- Toasting the Buns:
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and spread the garlic butter on the cut sides of the slider buns. Toast face-down until golden and crispy then flip briefly to warm the other side.
- Assembling the Sliders:
- Cut bacon strips into thirds. Spread mayonnaise on the bottom bun, layer lettuce, a thick slice of seasoned tomato, and three pieces of candied bacon. Top with the other half of the bun.
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Cooked candied bacon can be made up to two days in advance and stored in the fridge. Reheat gently in the oven to restore crispness. Garlic butter can also be prepared ahead and stored refrigerated.
Ingredient Substitutions
Regular hamburger buns can replace Hawaiian slider buns if needed but the flavor and texture will be less special. You can omit cayenne pepper for a milder taste but smoked paprika should stay for depth.
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Serving Suggestions
These sliders are perfect for parties where finger foods shine. Pair with simple sides like chips or a fresh fruit salad to complement their rich flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes
- → Can I make the candied bacon ahead of time?
Yes! Cook the bacon up to 2 days ahead and store it in the fridge. Just reheat briefly before serving.
- → What kind of buns work best?
Hawaiian slider buns are ideal for their sweetness and softness, but regular buns also work if needed.
- → How spicy is the bacon?
It has mild heat from cayenne, but you can leave that out for a milder version that still tastes amazing.
- → Can I substitute another type of tomato?
Roma tomatoes are best for texture, but you can use grape or cherry tomatoes sliced in half as an alternative.
- → How do I keep sliders from getting soggy?
Assemble them just before serving and avoid overly juicy tomatoes to prevent sogginess.
- → What can I do with leftover candied bacon?
Chop it and add to salads, pasta, or reheat for a snack. It stores well in the fridge for a few days.