Maple Bacon Bourbon Jam is a rich, smoky, and slightly sweet spread made with crispy bacon, onions, brown sugar, maple syrup, and a splash of bourbon. Perfect for burgers, charcuterie boards, or slathered on toast, this savory-sweet jam is the ultimate flavor bomb.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Maple Bacon Bourbon Jam is a decadent condiment that elevates any dish with its complex layers of sweet, smoky, and tangy flavors. It’s incredibly versatile—pair it with cheese boards, burgers, roasted vegetables, or even breakfast favorites like eggs and toast. With simple ingredients and an indulgent taste, this small-batch jam makes a gourmet addition to any kitchen or a thoughtful homemade gift for food lovers.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 lb thick-cut bacon, chopped
- 1 large onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup brewed coffee
- 2 tablespoons bourbon
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Directions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate. Drain most of the bacon fat, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the skillet.
- Add the finely diced onion to the skillet and cook over medium heat, stirring often, until soft and caramelized—about 10–15 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Stir in the brown sugar, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, brewed coffee, and bourbon. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2–3 minutes.
- Return the bacon to the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer gently for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thick and jam-like.
- Season with black pepper and allow the mixture to cool slightly.
- Transfer to a food processor and pulse a few times for a smoother texture, or leave it chunky if preferred.
- Spoon the jam into an airtight jar and refrigerate. Use within 2 weeks.
Servings and timing
Servings: 16 servings (approx. 1 tablespoon each)
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Calories per serving: 90 kcal
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped chipotle pepper for heat.
- Extra Smoky: Use smoked paprika or smoked bacon for deeper flavor.
- Sweeter Version: Increase maple syrup or add a tablespoon of honey.
- No Bourbon: Replace bourbon with extra brewed coffee or omit for an alcohol-free version.
- Herbal Note: Add a sprig of thyme or rosemary while simmering for an aromatic touch.
storage/reheating
Store the jam in a sterilized, airtight glass jar in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Let it come to room temperature before serving, or gently warm in a skillet or microwave if desired. Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes.
FAQs
Can I make this without alcohol?
Yes, simply omit the bourbon or replace it with more coffee or a splash of apple juice.
How do I know when the jam is done?
It should be thick and glossy, with very little liquid pooling at the bottom. A spoon dragged across the skillet should leave a clear path.
Is this jam shelf-stable?
No, it must be stored in the refrigerator and used within 2 weeks due to the meat content.
Can I freeze bacon jam?
It’s not ideal, but possible. Freeze in small portions and thaw in the refrigerator before use.
What kind of bacon works best?
Thick-cut bacon yields the best texture and flavor. Avoid overly lean cuts for this recipe.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but be sure to simmer longer to achieve the correct jam-like consistency.
What do I serve this with?
Try it on burgers, grilled cheese, charcuterie boards, scrambled eggs, crostini, or even roasted Brussels sprouts.
Can I use turkey bacon?
Yes, but the flavor and fat content will be different, and you may need additional oil for sautéing.
Is there a substitute for maple syrup?
Honey or agave syrup can be used, though maple syrup provides a signature depth of flavor.
How do I package this for gifts?
Cool completely and store in clean glass jars. Label with use-by dates and refrigeration instructions.
Conclusion
Maple Bacon Bourbon Jam is a luxurious, savory-sweet condiment that adds bold character to everyday dishes. Whether spread on toast or used to top a gourmet burger, it delivers rich, smoky flavor in every bite. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, this irresistible jam is sure to become a standout favorite in your homemade condiment collection.
PrintMaple Bacon Bourbon Jam
Maple Bacon Bourbon Jam is a rich, sweet-and-savory spread made with crispy bacon, caramelized onions, maple syrup, and bourbon—perfect for burgers, charcuterie boards, or gourmet toast toppings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Simmered
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
- 1 lb thick-cut bacon, chopped
- 1 large onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup brewed coffee
- 2 tablespoons bourbon
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook chopped bacon until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside. Drain excess fat, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the skillet.
- Add diced onions to the skillet and cook for 10–15 minutes until caramelized. Stir in garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes more.
- Add brown sugar, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, coffee, and bourbon. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2–3 minutes.
- Return the bacon to the skillet. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
- Season with black pepper. Let cool slightly.
- Transfer to a food processor and pulse a few times if a smoother texture is desired.
- Store in an airtight jar in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Notes
- Use smoked bacon for extra depth of flavor.
- Adjust sweetness by adding more or less maple syrup or brown sugar.
- Great as a gift in small mason jars—just label and chill.
- Delicious paired with sharp cheeses, eggs, or grilled meats.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 140mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg