Candied Bacon, Jalapeños, and Apples Burger Topping

Ingredients

Directions

1. 1Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange bacon slices in a single layer. Brush bacon with maple syrup and sprinkle with 2 tablespoons raw sugar. Bake for 20-25 minutes until crispy and caramelized. Let cool, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
2. 2While bacon bakes, combine 1/2 cup raw sugar, apple cider vinegar, and red pepper flakes in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring to dissolve sugar.
3. 3Add sliced jalapeños to the boiling mixture and reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer for 5 minutes until jalapeños are slightly softened.
4. 4Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature. Dice the red apples into small chunks.
5. 5In a bowl, combine the candied bacon pieces, pickled jalapeños (with some of their liquid), and diced apples. Toss gently to mix.
6. 6Store in a jar or airtight container in the refrigerator. Spoon generously over burgers just before serving.