Our virtual escape to the Canadian Rockies inspired me to discover the perfect maple syrup infused happy hour! With travel plans temporarily on hold, bring the tastes of Canadian maple syrup to your kitchen. Over the next few weeks we’re going to share some of our favorite travel-inspired recipes! Up next, enjoy snacking on some Spicy Maple Candied Bacon as you sip a Maple Bourbon Smash!
MAPLE BOURBON SMASH COCKTAIL
SERVINGS: 1 drink
INGREDIENTS
3 to 4 tablespoons bourbon
1/4 lemon, sliced into 2 wedges
5 large mint leaves
2 tablespoons maple syrup
Soda water, for serving
Crushed ice, for serving
DIRECTIONS
Place the lemon wedges and mint leaves in a cocktail shaker. Muddle 4 to 5 times to extract flavor.
Add the bourbon and maple syrup and fill the shaker with ice. If desired, add a splash of soda water. Shake until cold and strain into a glass. Serve with crushed ice.
SPICY MAPLE CANDIED BACON
SERVINGS: 12 strips
INGREDIENTS
1 lb thick-cut applewood smoked bacon
2-1/2 tablespoons brown sugar
2 tablespoons maple syrup
1-1/2 teaspoons chipotle chile powder (optional)
DIRECTIONS
Preheat the oven to 350°F and set a rack in middle position. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil.
Arrange the bacon in a single layer on the rack. Bake for 20 minutes.
Meanwhile, in a small bowl, stir together the brown sugar, syrup, and chipotle powder. Set aside.
Remove the pan from the oven and flip the bacon slices. Using a small spoon, spread the sugar-syrup mixture evenly over the bacon. Place the pan back in the oven and continue cooking for 20-35 minutes more.
Using tongs, transfer the bacon to a piece of parchment paper or a platter in a single layer to prevent sticking. Let cool for 10-15 minutes, then serve (the bacon will crisp up as it cools).
Note: This candied bacon has a nice kick. For less heat, cut the chile powder in half; for more, increase the amount to 2 teaspoons.