The Best Homemade Bacon Jam Recipe

I’ve always loved finding ways to elevate simple dishes, and this bacon jam recipe has become a staple in my kitchen. It’s a perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and savory, blending crispy bacon with caramelized onions and a touch of maple syrup. The slow cooking process deepens the flavors, creating something truly special. If you’re curious about how to transform these ingredients into a versatile spread, you’re in the right place.

Recipe

Trust me when I say this homemade bacon jam is a game-changer—it’s the kind of condiment that turns ordinary meals into extraordinary ones. Sweet, smoky, and irresistibly savory, this jam is packed with caramelized onions, brown sugar, and, of course, crispy bacon, creating a texture that’s perfectly spreadable yet delightfully chunky.

What makes it special? It’s all about the slow simmer, allowing the flavors to meld into a rich, decadent spread that’s impossible to resist. I’ve made this for countless gatherings, and it always steals the show—whether slathered on a burger, paired with crackers and cheese, or even dolloped onto scrambled eggs.

It’s ridiculously easy to make, and once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it. Let’s get cooking—your taste buds will thank you!

Ingredients

The secret to next-level bacon jam? It’s all about balancing smoky, sweet, and tangy—with a few chef-approved twists.

Stick to thick-cut bacon for the best texture (flimsy slices will disappear when cooked down), and don’t skimp on real maple syrup—its depth beats pancake syrup every time.

Essential Ingredients:

• 1 lb thick-cut bacon (applewood-smoked for maximum flavor) – *Chef’s note: Dice it cold for cleaner cuts.*
• 1 large yellow onion (finely chopped) – *Sweet varieties like Vidalia add caramelized richness.*
• 3 garlic cloves (minced) – *Fresh is non-negotiable; powdered tastes flat here.*
• ½ cup strong brewed coffee – *Adds a bitter backbone; decaf works too.*
• ¼ cup apple cider vinegar – *Swaps: balsamic for a fruitier tang, but reduce to 2 tbsp.*
• ¼ cup pure maple syrup – *Grade B has deeper flavor, but Grade A works in a pinch.*
• 2 tbsp brown sugar – *Light or dark; dark adds molasses depth.*
• 1 tsp smoked paprika – *This is your smoky amplifier—don’t skip it.*

Elevator Moves (Optional but Worth It):

• 1 tbsp bourbon or whiskey – *Stir in during the last 5 minutes of cooking for grown-up complexity.*
• Pinch of red pepper flakes – *Just enough to tease the palate, not overwhelm.*

*Pro Tip: Render the bacon low and slow—rushing this step means chewy bits instead of melt-in-your-mouth jam.*

How to Make the Best Smoky Bacon Jam Recipe

• Stir in brown sugar, maple syrup, coffee, and spices. The sugar and syrup provide sweetness, while coffee enhances the smoky richness.
• Simmer gently to let the flavors meld.
• Chop the cooked bacon into small pieces and add it back to the skillet. Mix well to incorporate it evenly throughout the jam.
• Simmer the mixture over low heat, stirring occasionally, until thickened—about 10-15 minutes. You want it to coat the back of a spoon but still be spreadable.
• Blend partially for a smoother texture, if desired. Use an immersion blender or transfer a portion to a food processor, leaving some chunks for texture.
• Cool and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. The flavors deepen over time, making it even more delicious after a day or two.

Pro Tip: For quicker prep, use pre-chopped bacon or a food processor to mince onions.

Watch Out: Avoid high heat during caramelization—it can burn the onions and ruin the balance of flavors.

Nutrition

Nutritional values may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

Chef Tips

While making bacon jam, I’ve found that using thick-cut bacon adds a more robust texture and flavor to the final product.

Cook it low and slow to render fat evenly without burning. Deglaze the pan with bourbon or apple cider vinegar for depth.

Stir frequently to prevent sticking. Let it cool slightly before blending—it thickens as it sets.

Store in sterilized jars for freshness.