# Components:
→ Bacon
01 - 8 slices extra-thick cut bacon
→ Brown Sugar Coating
02 - 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
03 - 1/2 teaspoon cracked black pepper
04 - 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
05 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
# Directions:
01 - Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top.
02 - Lay the bacon slices in a single layer on the wire rack, spacing them evenly to ensure crisping.
03 - In a small bowl, mix together light brown sugar, cracked black pepper, cayenne pepper, and smoked paprika.
04 - Sprinkle the brown sugar mixture generously over both sides of each bacon slice, pressing lightly to adhere.
05 - Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through, until bacon is deeply caramelized and crisp.
06 - Remove from oven and allow bacon to cool on the rack for 5 minutes to further crisp.
07 - Serve warm or at room temperature as a decadent appetizer or snack.