Smoky, sweet, and boozy, this bacon jam layers bourbon, maple, and coffee into a spreadable savory-sweet treat. Spoon over burgers, biscuits, or cheese boards.
0.5cupshallot, mincedoptional, for extra sweetness
1tbspgarlic, minced
1tbsptomato paste
0.35cupbourbon
0.5cupstrong brewed coffee
0.27cupapple cider vinegar
0.5cupdark brown sugar, packed
0.33cuppure maple syrup
0.75tspsmoked paprika
0.25tspcrushed red pepper flakes
0.5tspfreshly ground black pepper
0.5tspfine sea salt
0.25cupwateras needed to loosen while simmering
Instructions
Preparation Steps
Cook chopped bacon in a wide skillet over medium heat until browned, 10–12 minutes.
Transfer bacon to a plate. Leave about 1 tablespoon drippings in the pan.
Soften onion and shallot in the drippings over medium heat, stirring often, 8–10 minutes.
Stir in garlic, tomato paste, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes. Cook 1 minute until fragrant.
Deglaze with bourbon, scraping up browned bits, and simmer 2–3 minutes.
Add brown sugar, maple syrup, coffee, vinegar, and the bacon. Simmer on low, stirring often, 35–45 minutes.
Splash in water as needed to keep it gently bubbling and jammy.
Season with salt and black pepper. Adjust sweetness or tang to taste.
Pulse briefly in a food processor for a spreadable texture, or leave chunky. Cool before jarring.
Notes
Try a chipotle twist: swap smoked paprika for 1/2 tsp minced chipotle in adobo. Serve warm on smash burgers, grilled cheese, or alongside sharp cheddar and pickles. Refrigerate up to 2 weeks; rewarm gently on low heat or in short microwave bursts. Freeze up to 2 months.This recipe is an original creation inspired by classic Bourbon Bacon Jam Delight flavors. All ingredient ratios and instructions are independently developed.