Maple Bacon Onion Jam Recipe (2025)

Published: May 18, 2023 · Modified: Aug 25, 2023 by Erica Schramek · This post may contain affiliate links. · As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

If you're a fan of the irresistible combination of sweet and savory flavors, then you're in for a treat! Maple Bacon Onion Jam is a delicious condiment that's perfect for adding a burst of flavor to your favorite dishes.

Whether you spread it on toast, dollop it on a burger, or serve it alongside cheese and crackers, this jam is sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

• This simple recipe only needs one pan but has plenty of flavor. It is the perfect condiment for bacon lovers.
• This maple bacon jam recipe is a delicious way to add sweet savory flavor to all of your favorite dishes like burgers, pork chops, charcuterie boards, and baked goods.
• Sweet caramelized sweet onion pairs perfectly with salty crisp bacon.

Ingredients

Bacon: Use your favorite thick-cut bacon. If you want to add a bit of smoked flavor, choose smoked bacon.

Onions: I prefer to use yellow onions but you could also use white onions.

Maple Syrup: You will want to use syrup labeled as pure maple syrup, not pancake syrup.

Dark Brown Sugar: You could substitute white sugar but I like the extra caramel flavor the brown sugar adds.

Apple Cider Vinegar: The acid from the vinegar brightens the other flavors. If you don't have apple cider vinegar you could also use balsamic vinegar. If you decide to use white vinegar you may want to increase the sugar.

Thyme: You can use fresh or dried thyme.

(Optional) Bourbon: Add a splash of bourbon to create bourbon maple bacon onion jam.

See the recipe card for quantities.

Directions

Cook Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. About 20-25 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Try not to snack on too many bacon bits while you cook the onions.

Drain all but about 2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the skillet. Save the extra bacon fat to make these Bacon Grease Chocolate Chip Cookies.

Tip: Be sure to use a large skillet. A too-small skillet will crowd the bacon making it take longer to crisp and cook.

Caramelize the Onions: In the same skillet with the remaining bacon grease, add the thinly sliced onions and cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, for about 20 minutes or until they are golden brown and caramelized.

Add the Remaining Ingredients: Once the onions are caramelized, add the pure maple syrup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, thyme, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika (if using) to the skillet. Stir well to combine.

Optional: Add a splash of bourbon to create bourbon bacon jam.

Simmer the Jam: Bring the mixture to a simmer over low heat and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens to a jam-like consistency. The jam should coat the back of a spoon when it's ready.

Return the bacon to the pan and stir to combine.

Cool and Store: Remove the skillet from the heat and let the Maple Bacon Onion Jam cool to room temperature. Once cooled, transfer it to a glass jar or an airtight container. I typically store it in a glass mason jar.

Serving Suggestions

Now that you've made your own batch of Maple Bacon-Onion Jam, there are so many different ways to serve it! Here are a few serving suggestions to inspire you:

• Breakfast: Spread the jam on toast or English muffins for a sweet and savory twist on your morning routine. Top it with a fried egg for extra indulgence.
• Gourmet Burger: Slather this savory spread on a juicy burger along with some melted cheese for an explosion of flavors. Add some lettuce and tomato for a complete meal.
• Cheese Platter: Serve the Maple Bacon Onion Jam alongside a variety of cheeses for sophisticated quick appetizers. The sweetness of the jam pairs perfectly with cream cheese, sharp cheddar, creamy brie, or tangy blue cheese.
• Grilled Cheese: Use the Maple Bacon Onion Jam as a spread for your next grilled cheese sandwich. The combination of melty cheese, crispy bread, and sweet-savory jam will take your sandwich to the next level.
• Charcuterie Board: Add a dollop of Maple Bacon Onion Jam to your charcuterie board for a unique and delicious addition. It pairs well with cured meats, goat cheese, crackers, and pickles for a well-rounded spread.

Storage

Store the jam in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

For longer storage, the jam can be stored in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Be sure to label it with the date and contents.

To Thaw: Place the container in the refrigerator to thaw overnight.

Tips

• Be sure to use a large skillet. A too-small skillet will crowd the bacon making it take longer to crisp and cook.
• Cook the onions over low heat to caramelize the natural sugars in the onions without burning them.
• Puree the jam using a hand-held blender or food processor for a smoother consistency.

Looking for other recipes like this? Try these:

Pairing

These are my favorite dishes to serve with Maple Bacon Onion Jam:

Maple Bacon Onion Jam is a delightful condiment that adds a burst of flavor to your favorite dishes. It's easy to make at home with just a few simple ingredients, and the sweet-savory combination of maple syrup, bacon, and caramelized onions is simply irresistible. Try making a batch of this delicious jam and elevate your culinary creations to new heights!

📖 Recipe