The Best Homemade Sweet Maple Onion Bacon Jam

There's something magical about the way certain foods can transform the simplest of dishes into something drool-worthy! Bacon jam is one of those foods. This luscious, sweet, and savory spread takes the smoky richness of the bacon and melds it with the deep caramelized flavors of onions, the subtle heat of jalapeños, and the perfect touch of maple syrup and vinegar. It's the kind of thing that makes you wonder how you ever lived without it, and once you've tried it, there's no going back!

What is Bacon Jam?

Imagine a world where bacon isn't just a breakfast staple but a versatile, savory-sweet condiment that transforms everything it touches. Welcome to the universe of this jam! This magical spread combines thick bacon, caramelized onions, a hint of heat from jalapeños, the sweetness of maple syrup, and the tang of vinegar. It's like a smoky bacon lover’s dream come true, packed into a mason jar.

Why I Love Bacon Jam

Bacon jam is the kind of thing that, once you taste it, you're hooked for life. There’s something about the combination of smoky bacon, sweet onions, and rich maple syrup that hits every note on your palate. The first time I tried this jam, it was on a charcuterie board, and let me tell you, it stole the show! It’s the perfect balance of sweet, salty, tangy, and spicy. And the best part? You can put it on just about anything!

My Favorite Uses for Bacon Jam

One of the best things about this jam is its versatility. Here are some delicious ways to use this sweet and savory condiment:

• Burgers: This is my favorite way to enjoy bacon jam! Spread it on a juicy burger, and you’ve got a flavor explosion. The sweet and savory notes elevate the burger to a whole new level!
• Grilled Cheese: A grilled cheese sandwich with this jam? Yes, please! The jam adds a smoky, sweet touch that makes the cheese even more irresistible.
• Charcuterie Boards: Add it to your next cheese board. It pairs beautifully with a variety of cheeses, especially sharp cheddar and creamy brie.
• Fried Eggs: Dollop some jam on top of a fried egg for a breakfast that’s out of this world. You can even fry the egg in chili crisp oil, and you're all set!
• Biscuits: Spread it on hot biscuits, fresh out of the oven. The combination of warm, fluffy biscuits and sweet, savory bacon jam is pure heaven.
• Chicken and Pork: Use it as a glaze for grilled chicken or pork. The maple syrup and brown sugar caramelize beautifully, creating a seriously delicious crust.
• Salad Dressing: Whisk it into a vinaigrette with some balsamic vinegar and olive oil for a smoky, sweet salad dressing.

How to Make the Best Homemade Sweet Maple Onion Bacon Jam

Tips for the Perfect Bacon Jam

• Use Good Quality Bacon: The better the bacon, the better the jam. Look for thick-cut, smoky bacon for the best results.
• Cook the Onions Slowly: Low and slow is the name of the game for caramelized onions. They should be a deep golden brown, which takes time but is totally worth it.
• Balance the Flavors: Taste as you go and adjust the sweetness, spiciness, and acidity to your liking. The perfect combination of these flavors is what makes bacon jam so addictive.
• Store it Right: Keep your bacon jam in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep for up to two weeks, but good luck making it last that long!

Bacon Jam Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are countless ways to tweak the basic bacon jam recipe. Here are some of my favorites: 

• Hot Pepper Bacon Jam: Add more jalapeños, some red pepper flakes, or even some cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
• Balsamic Bacon Jam: Swap out the apple cider vinegar for balsamic vinegar for a deeper, richer flavor.
• Garlic Bacon Jam: Add a few cloves of minced garlic to the onions for an extra layer of flavor.
• White Wine Bacon Jam: Use white wine vinegar instead of apple cider vinegar for a lighter, tangier jam.

Bacon jam is more than just a trend; it’s a game-changer in the kitchen. Whether you’re spreading it on a burger, mixing it into a salad dressing, or simply eating it by the spoonful (no judgment here), it’s bound to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. So, grab a large skillet and a wooden spoon, and get cooking. Your taste buds will thank you.

Whether you need it for a quick breakfast, to crumble over a salad, or to add a crispy element to your burger, microwave bacon is a game-changer. Give it a try, and you might just find it becoming your new go-to method for cooking bacon. Click here to go to the recipe!

How to Serve This Jam

When it comes to serving bacon jam, the possibilities are endless. Here are some of my favorite ways to enjoy this delectable condiment:

• On a Burger: As seen in the stunning visual, a generous dollop of the jam on a juicy burger is pure perfection. Pair it with some crispy bacon, melted cheese, and a toasted bun for the ultimate burger experience.
• With Cheese: Bacon jam pairs wonderfully with a variety of cheeses. Spread it on a cracker with a slice of sharp cheddar, or let it melt into a gooey brie on your next cheese board.
• With Breakfast: Add a spoonful of the jam to your breakfast plate. It’s incredible on scrambled eggs, an English muffin, or even mixed into your oatmeal for a savory twist.
• On Hot Biscuits: Fresh, warm biscuits and bacon jam are a match made in heaven. The sweet, smoky jam perfectly complements the buttery, flaky biscuits.

Bacon jam is the sweet condiment you never knew you needed but now can’t live without. Whether you’re a seasoned bacon lover or new to the concept of bacon jam, this homemade recipe is sure to become a favorite. So, whip up a batch, store it in little jars for future use, and discover the countless ways to enjoy this delicious bacon jam.

Print