Bacon Maple Onion Jam Spread

Bacon jam brings together dark salty bacon with sweet caramelized onions and a touch of rich maple creating a crave-worthy spread that transforms breakfasts sandwiches or party boards. When I first made it for a holiday brunch I realized just how wildly versatile this recipe is for adding big flavor to so many of my everyday meals.

The first time I tasted bacon jam at a friend’s gathering I knew I had to try making it at home. Now it is my go-to for jazzing up burgers or serving alongside cheese trays for guests.

Ingredients

• Thick cut bacon: Delivers rich smoky flavor and crisp texture when cooked choose a quality brand with visible marbling
• Yellow onion: Caramelizes beautifully lending sweetness and depth look for firm bulbs with shiny skin
• Fresh garlic: Boosts savory complexity use plump cloves and mince right before cooking
• Brown sugar: Gives molasses notes and helps the jam thicken stick with dark brown for even richer taste
• Maple syrup: Deepens the sweetness and balances the salt opt for pure maple for best results
• Apple cider vinegar: Brings a subtle tang and brightness use good quality vinegar for rounded flavor
• Salt: Enhances all the layers of taste and pulls the spread together use sea salt if possible for best seasoning

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the bacon and onions:

Dice the bacon into quarter inch pieces and the onion into small cubes This ensures everything cooks evenly and you get plenty of flavor in every spoonful

Crisp the bacon:

Set a large skillet on medium high heat Add the bacon and cook slowly for about fifteen to twenty minutes Stir occasionally The goal is deep crispiness but not burnt

Drain and reserve bacon fat:

Use a slotted spoon to transfer the crispy bacon to a plate lined with paper towels Save about one tablespoon of the bacon drippings in a small bowl Set it aside and carefully discard the rest once cooled

Caramelize the onions:

Pour the saved bacon drips back into your pan Stir in the diced onions Lower the heat to medium and cook gently for about fifteen minutes Keep stirring so the onions turn golden soft and sweet

Add remaining ingredients:

When onions are perfectly caramelized add minced garlic brown sugar maple syrup apple cider vinegar and salt Return the cooked bacon to the skillet Stir everything together really well

Cook into jam:

Let the mixture simmer on low for about fifteen minutes Stir often as the sugars dissolve and the mix thickens to a sticky glossy jam consistency

Cool and store:

Remove from heat and let the jam cool to room temperature Spoon it into a glass jar Seal and refrigerate Uses are endless enjoy within seven days

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Every time my family smells this simmering on the stove they ask if I am making their favorite breakfast treat.

Storage Tips

Transfer the cooled jam to an airtight jar or container and keep it refrigerated It remains fresh for up to seven days For longer storage freeze portions in silicone ice cube trays then pop cubes into a freezer bag so you always have a little on hand to thaw when you need it

Ingredient Substitutions

You can try using turkey bacon for a lighter version or swap yellow onion with red for extra sweetness If you do not have maple syrup a drizzle of honey works as a substitute just expect a slightly different undertone Feel free to add a dash of black pepper or even a hint of chili for heat

Serving Suggestions

Bacon jam shines on breakfast sandwiches especially with eggs and sharp cheddar It is also amazing spooned over baked brie or blended with cream cheese for a tangy smoky dip I love adding a scoop to a warm biscuit or stirring a little into roasted brussels sprouts for extra flavor

Cultural and Historical Context

Bacon jam draws on a long American love of sweet smoky breakfast flavors inspired by Southern cooking traditions The craft spread rose in popularity in the last decade thanks to food trucks and creative chefs seeking savory twists on classic jams These days it is a beloved staple at brunches and gatherings across the country

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With some attention to detail this bacon jam recipe is your go-to for elevating everyday meals with irresistibly deep flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do you achieve a jammy texture?

Simmer the mixture until the liquids reduce and the ingredients thicken into a spreadable consistency.

→ Which bacon type works best for this spread?

Thick-cut bacon is recommended for hearty texture and rich flavor, but standard-cut can also work well.

→ How long does the finished spread last in the fridge?

Stored in an airtight jar, it keeps in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.

→ Can this be served warm or cold?

It's delicious either way—try it warm for extra richness, or cold for a firmer texture and convenience.

→ What are some serving ideas?

Spread on toast, burgers, sandwiches, or pair with cheeses on a charcuterie platter for bold flavor.