Bacon Jam Recipe

Introduction

Bacon jam is a rich, savory spread that elevates everything from burgers to crackers. Made with smoky bacon, sweet maple syrup, and tangy vinegar, this unique condiment is as versatile as it is delicious. Using a slow cooker makes the process easy and perfect for warm days.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 pounds Applewood Smoked Thick Cut Bacon, cut into one-inch pieces
• 2 medium onions, diced small
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 teaspoons minced jarred garlic, or 3 cloves garlic peeled and smashed
• 1/2 cup dark brown sugar
• 1/4 cup 100% maple syrup
• 3/4 cup brewed coffee
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Instructions

1. Step 1: Place the bacon pieces in a large skillet and cook until light brown. Drain bacon on paper towels and set aside.
2. Step 2: Drain all but one tablespoon of bacon grease from the pan. Add the garlic and onions, then cook until soft.
3. Step 3: Add the vinegar, maple syrup, brown sugar, and coffee to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring and scraping the bottom to release any browned bits. Add the bacon and red pepper flakes, then stir to combine.
4. Step 4: Transfer the mixture to a 6-quart crock pot. Cook uncovered on high heat for 3 to 4 hours, until the liquid is syrupy.
5. Step 5: Transfer the cooked mixture to a food processor and pulse until coarsely chopped. Let the bacon jam cool, then refrigerate in a covered container.

Tips & Variations

• Use thick-cut bacon for a richer texture and deeper smoky flavor.
• Add a splash of balsamic vinegar for an extra layer of tanginess.
• For a milder kick, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes or omit entirely.
• Serve bacon jam warm on burgers or cold as a savory spread for crackers.

Storage

Store bacon jam in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 weeks. Reheat gently in a microwave or on the stovetop if you prefer it warm. It also freezes well for longer storage—thaw overnight in the refrigerator before use.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular bacon instead of Applewood smoked?

Yes, regular bacon works fine, but using smoked bacon adds an extra depth of flavor that makes the jam more aromatic and rich.

How spicy is bacon jam with red pepper flakes?

The red pepper flakes add a subtle heat that complements the sweetness; you can adjust the amount to suit your spice preference or leave it out for a milder version.

Bacon Jam Recipe

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★★★★★

5 from 146 reviews

• Author: anna
• Total Time: 3 hours 45 minutes
• Yield: About 2 1/2 cups 1x

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Description

Deliciously savory and sweet Bacon Jam made with thick-cut Applewood smoked bacon, caramelized onions, garlic, vinegar, maple syrup, brown sugar, brewed coffee, and red pepper flakes. Slow-cooked to perfection in a crock pot and finished with a coarse chop, this versatile jam is fantastic on burgers, crackers, or as a unique appetizer topping.

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Ingredients

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Ingredients

• 1 1/2 pounds Applewood Smoked Thick Cut Bacon, cut into one inch pieces
• 2 medium onions, diced small
• 1/2 cup Apple cider vinegar
• 2 teaspoons minced jarred garlic or 3 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed
• 1/2 cup dark brown sugar
• 1/4 cup 100% maple syrup
• 3/4 cup brewed coffee
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes

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Instructions

1. Cook the bacon: Place the bacon pieces in a large skillet and cook over medium heat until they are light brown and slightly crispy. Drain the bacon on paper towels to remove excess grease and set aside.
2. Sauté the aromatics: Drain all but one tablespoon of bacon grease from the skillet. Add the minced garlic and diced onions to the pan and cook until they become soft and translucent, releasing their sweet flavors.
3. Add liquids and simmer: Stir in the apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, dark brown sugar, and brewed coffee into the skillet with the onions and garlic. Bring the mixture to a boil while stirring and scraping the bottom of the pan to release any flavorful browned bits. Then add the cooked bacon and red pepper flakes, mixing everything together well.
4. Slow cook in crock pot: Transfer the entire mixture into a 6-quart crock pot. Cook on high uncovered for 3 to 4 hours, allowing the liquid to reduce and become syrupy, melding the flavors deeply.
5. Process and cool: After cooking, transfer the mixture to a food processor and pulse until the jam is coarsely chopped, maintaining some texture and chunkiness.
6. Store and serve: Let the Bacon Jam cool to room temperature, then refrigerate in a covered container. It will keep for up to 4 weeks and is perfect for topping burgers, spreading on crackers, or enjoying as a flavorful appetizer.

Notes

• Use thick-cut Applewood smoked bacon for best flavor, but any thick-cut bacon works well.
• If you prefer less heat, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes.
• Make sure to use brewed coffee for depth of flavor, not instant granules.
• Bacon Jam stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 weeks.
• This recipe can be doubled easily to share or save.
• For a smoother jam, process longer in the food processor.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
• Category: Condiment
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: Bacon Jam, Applewood Bacon Jam, Slow Cooker Bacon Jam, Bacon Condiment, Bacon Spread, Appetizer, Bacon Recipe