Whiskey Bacon Jam Recipe
Introduction
Whiskey bacon jam is a savory-sweet condiment that combines smoky bacon with the warmth of whiskey and spices. It’s perfect for adding depth to burgers, sandwiches, or even cheese boards. This recipe is easy to make and sure to impress your taste buds.

Ingredients
- 6 slices bacon
- 1 medium apple, peeled, cored, and diced
- 1/2 cup whiskey (such as bourbon or rye)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and crumble once cooled.
- Step 2: Drain excess bacon grease, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the skillet. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Step 3: Add the diced apple to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples start to soften.
- Step 4: Pour in the whiskey, stir to combine, and cook for 2-3 minutes to reduce the liquid slightly.
- Step 5: Add brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, and cloves. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer. Cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and becomes jam-like.
- Step 6: Stir in the crumbled bacon and cook for 2 more minutes to blend the flavors well.
- Step 7: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the jam cool before transferring to a jar or serving.
Tips & Variations
- Use turkey bacon for a leaner version with less fat.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Substitute apple cider vinegar with balsamic vinegar for a deeper flavor.
- Store leftover jam in sterilized jars for longer shelf life.
Storage
Store the whiskey bacon jam in an airtight container or jar in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. To reheat, warm gently in a saucepan over low heat or microwave briefly, stirring to restore its spreadable consistency.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make whiskey bacon jam without alcohol?
Yes, you can replace whiskey with apple juice or broth, but the flavor will be less rich and complex.
How long does whiskey bacon jam last?
When stored properly in the refrigerator, it lasts up to two weeks. Always use a clean spoon to avoid contamination.
PrintWhiskey Bacon Jam Recipe
Whiskey Bacon Jam is a rich and savory spread combining crispy bacon, sweet apples, warm spices, and a splash of whiskey to create a deliciously complex flavor perfect for toast, burgers, or cheese boards.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 1 cup 1x
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 6 slices bacon
- 1 medium apple, peeled, cored, and diced
- 1/2 cup whiskey (such as bourbon or rye)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the bacon: Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy. Once done, remove from the skillet and place on a paper towel to cool and drain excess fat. Crumble the cooled bacon into small pieces.
- Sauté the onion: Drain excess bacon grease from the skillet, leaving about 1 tablespoon behind. Add the finely chopped onion to the skillet and cook over medium heat until softened, approximately 5 minutes.
- Add the apples: Stir in the diced apple and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples begin to soften but retain some texture.
- Deglaze with whiskey: Pour in the whiskey, stirring to incorporate and deglaze the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes to allow the alcohol to reduce slightly and the flavors to meld.
- Add remaining ingredients and simmer: Add brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, ground cinnamon, and ground cloves to the skillet. Stir well and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens to a jam-like consistency.
- Combine with bacon: Stir in the crumbled bacon and cook for an additional 2 minutes to integrate flavors and warm the bacon throughout.
- Season and cool: Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Allow the jam to cool before transferring to a jar or serving.
Notes
- Use a good quality whiskey such as bourbon or rye for the best flavor.
- The jam can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- Perfect as a topping for burgers, sandwiches, crackers, or cheese boards.
- Make sure to cook the whiskey long enough to reduce the alcohol content.
- For a smoother texture, you can pulse the jam lightly in a food processor once cooled.
Keywords: whiskey bacon jam, bacon jam recipe, savory bacon spread, bourbon bacon jam, homemade bacon jam

