Give your breakfast a major upgrade with a side of sweet and salty million dollar bacon. This easy bacon recipe starts with thick cut slices that are slathered with maple syrup and cracked black pepper. Our recipe testers compared this recipe to candied bacon and found it totally addictive. Make a batch and see for yourself!

Why Is it Called Million Dollar Bacon?

Bacon is good on its own but what makes this worthy of the million dollar title is the syrupy sweet topping. It creates an addicting balance of sweet and salty. It's also known as Millionaires Bacon. Like other million dollar recipes, it's a couple of added ingredients that make the recipe truly indulgent and delicious.

You may have seen million dollar bacon on breakfast and brunch menus. Our copycat million dollar bacon recipe is just as good as the restaurant version.

Million Dollar Bacon Ingredients

The great news about this million dollar bacon recipe is that you don't need many ingredients to make it. The payoff is well worth the couple of extra steps beyond tossing the bacon in the pan.

Bacon: When making millionaire bacon, thick cut bacon works best. Its meaty, salty flavor balances the sweetness of the maple syrup and brown sugar.
Maple Syrup: For the best flavor, use real maple syrup rather than pancake syrup.
Brown Sugar: The molasses flavor of brown sugar gives this bacon recipe a deep caramel flavor. It's the perfect balance for the smoky bacon.
Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper gives this recipe the most flavor. Choose a course grind.
Cayenne Pepper: If you like things a little spicier, add a bit more cayenne pepper.

How to Serve Millionaires Bacon

Let your million dollar bacon cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This ensures the sweet, sticky glaze isn't too hot. Our Test Kitchen likes to serve this million dollar bacon recipe alongside the classic breakfast of eggs and toast. It's the perfect accompaniment. It also adds sweetness to breakfast sandwiches, BLT's, and even salads. We recommend making a double batch so you have plenty for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.