Billionaire Bacon Recipe | Sweet & Spicy Kunekune Bacon
January 8, 2026 • 0 comments
- Prep Time:
- Cook Time:
- Servings: 4
Ingredients
- (8 slices) Kunekune Pork Thick-Cut Bacon, Smoked and Cured | Pasture-Raised, Heritage Breed | Flavor Perfection
- (8 Slices) Kunekune Pork Thin-Sliced Bacon, Smoked and Cured | Pasture-Raised| Savory Heritage Pork
- (Sliced into 8 slices, or use as a marinade on whole cut) Kunekune Pork Belly| Regeneratively Raised on Texas Pastures | Meat Candy for the Smoker
- (1 Cup) Brown Sugar
- (1 Tbsp) Black Pepper
- (1 tsp) Cayenne Pepper
- (1/2 cup) Maple Syrup
- (1/2 cup) Water
- (1/8 cup) Kosher Salt (optional, only if using to marinate whole belly cut that isn't cured already)
Directions
Billionaire Bacon: Sweet & Spicy Kunekune Pork Bacon Recipe
Billionaire Bacon is a wildly flavorful candied bacon recipe made with our pasture-raised Kunekune pork bacon. Perfectly balanced sweet and spicy, this bacon is a crowd-pleasing treat for brunch, game day, or anytime you want to elevate traditional bacon with a gourmet twist.
Description
This recipe uses pasture-raised Kunekune bacon glazed with brown sugar, maple syrup, and a kick of spice for an irresistible sweet-and-heat flavor. You can bake it right in the oven or use the glaze as a marinade on a pork belly before smoking — giving you flexibility whether you’re baking or BBQing.
Instructions
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Prepare the Glaze: In a large bowl, whisk together brown sugar, black pepper, cayenne pepper, maple syrup, and water until smooth.
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Prep the Bacon: Drag each slice of bacon through the glaze mixture so they’re well coated.
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Oven Method: Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Place a roasting rack on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and arrange the glazed bacon strips.
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Bake: Bake for 10–15 minutes, then rotate the pan and cook 2–5 more minutes based on how thick your bacon is and how caramelized you want it.
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Serve: Remove from the oven and enjoy while warm!
Optional Marinade & Smoker Method
If you’re smoking a whole pork belly:
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Place the belly in a vacuum seal bag or large zip-top bag.
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Pour the glaze over the belly and seal, turning once daily for up to 24 hours.
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Smoke at 175°F until the internal temperature reaches 150°F, then cool and slice like bacon.
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Cook on a skillet or in the oven as usual.
Tips for Perfect Billionaire Bacon
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Use thicker bacon for better balance with the glaze.
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Line the baking pan with parchment paper or foil to make cleaning easy.
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If you like it extra sweet and spicy, add a ½ tsp of extra cayenne.
When to Serve This Bacon
This candied bacon shines as:
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A brunch star with eggs and pancakes
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A snack platter centerpiece
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A garnish for salads or Bloody Marys
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A game-day treat that disappears fast
Recipe Variations
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Spicy Variation: Add more cayenne or red pepper flakes.
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Maple Twist: Increase maple syrup for a deeper sweet finish.
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BBQ Smoked: Use the marinade on a whole belly for a smoky variation.
Nutritional Note
This is a rich, indulgent bacon recipe — perfect for occasional treats and gatherings. Feel free to portion according to appetite and pair with lighter sides.
Try this recipe with our Kunekune Pork Thick-Cut Bacon or use the glaze on Kunekune Pork Belly for a smoked version
FAQ
Q: What is billionaire bacon?
A: Billionaire bacon is a sweet and spicy candied bacon recipe glazed with brown sugar, maple syrup, and spices, often baked until caramelized and crispy.
Q: Can I make this recipe with regular bacon?
A: Yes — but using pasture-raised Kunekune bacon gives a richer flavor and cleaner fat quality.
Q: How do I get the glaze to stick?
A: Ensure the bacon is patted dry before glazing and press the glaze into the meat so it adheres during baking.
