Bourbon Bacon Brittle is the ultimate indulgence for anyone who loves the bold combination of sweet and salty flavors. Crunchy caramelized sugar, smoky bacon, toasted nuts, and a splash of bourbon come together to create a candy that’s rich, complex, and completely addictive. It’s the kind of treat that disappears fast—whether served at parties, gifted during the holidays, or kept hidden for personal snacking.

Classic peanut brittle has been around for generations, but this version adds a modern twist. Bacon brings savory depth, bourbon adds warmth and subtle oak notes, and vanilla rounds everything out. The result is a brittle that feels elevated, unexpected, and perfect for adults who appreciate layered flavors.

Despite its gourmet appeal, bourbon bacon brittle is surprisingly easy to make at home. With a candy thermometer, a heavy saucepan, and a bit of attention, you can create crisp, professional-quality brittle in under an hour.

Why You’ll Love This Bourbon Bacon Brittle

Perfect sweet-salty balance
Smoky bacon + warm bourbon flavor
Great for gifting and holidays
Crunchy, glossy, bakery-style texture
Keeps well and travels easily

It’s also endlessly versatile—swap nuts, adjust bourbon levels, or drizzle with chocolate for a custom finish.

Ingredients

1 lb thick-cut bacon, cooked until crisp and chopped
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup light corn syrup
¼ cup water
4 tbsp unsalted butter
1 cup chopped pecans (or peanuts)
2 tbsp bourbon
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp baking soda
½ tsp flaky sea salt (optional, for finishing)

Instructions

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it. Set aside.
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
Attach a candy thermometer and continue cooking without stirring until mixture reaches 300°F (hard crack stage).
Remove from heat and quickly stir in butter until melted.
Add chopped bacon, pecans, bourbon, and vanilla extract, stirring rapidly to combine.
Immediately sprinkle baking soda over the mixture and stir just until incorporated (mixture will foam).
Pour brittle onto prepared baking sheet and spread thin with a heat-resistant spatula.
Sprinkle with flaky sea salt if desired.
Let cool completely, then break into shards.