The aroma of warm spices swirling through the air, the sizzle of turkey bacon on the skillet—this is the kind of recipe that feels like fall wrapped up in a delicious bite. I first discovered the joy of combining pumpkin spice with savory turkey bacon during a cozy autumn weekend, and honestly, it’s been a favorite ever since. It’s a little unexpected but trust me, it’s a match made in breakfast heaven! Whether you’re hosting brunch or just treating yourself to a seasonal twist, this irresistible pumpkin spice turkey bacon recipe will leave you craving more.
Why pumpkin spice, you ask? It’s not just for lattes and desserts. The warming notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves pair surprisingly well with the smoky saltiness of turkey bacon. Plus, it’s ridiculously simple to make and turns an ordinary breakfast into something that feels special. So, grab your skillet and let’s make your mornings a little cozier!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: This recipe takes less than 15 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy mornings.
- Seasonal Flavor: Pumpkin spice adds that perfect fall touch to your breakfast or brunch spread.
- Healthier Option: Turkey bacon is a lower-fat alternative to regular bacon, making this a lighter choice without sacrificing taste.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a lazy Sunday breakfast or a festive autumn gathering, this dish is a crowd-pleaser.
- Uniquely Delicious: The blend of savory and sweet flavors is something you won’t find in your average bacon recipe.
What really sets this recipe apart is the pumpkin spice glaze. It’s a simple mix of maple syrup, pumpkin spice, and a hint of smoked paprika that caramelizes beautifully on the turkey bacon. The result? Crispy, slightly sweet, and perfectly spiced slices that make each bite feel like fall.
And let’s be honest—sometimes you just want a recipe that’s both easy and impressive. This one ticks all the boxes, and it’s sure to make everyone at the table smile. Ready to give it a try?
What Ingredients You Will Need
This recipe uses just a handful of simple ingredients that come together to create a flavor-packed dish. Most of these are pantry staples, so you might already have everything you need!
- Turkey bacon: Choose your favorite brand—look for one that’s smoky and low in fat.
- Maple syrup: Opt for pure maple syrup for the best flavor and natural sweetness.
- Pumpkin spice: A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. You can use store-bought or make your own.
- Smoked paprika: Adds an extra layer of smokiness to balance the sweetness.
- Olive oil: Just a small amount for cooking the bacon.
- Salt and pepper: To season the bacon and enhance the flavors.
That’s it! If you’re missing pumpkin spice, you can easily mix equal parts cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and a pinch of cloves. And for a vegan adaptation, you can use plant-based bacon and agave syrup instead of maple syrup.
Equipment Needed
You don’t need much to pull off this recipe—just a few basic kitchen tools:
- Skillet or frying pan: A non-stick or cast-iron skillet works best.
- Spatula: For flipping the bacon without tearing it.
- Small bowl: To mix the pumpkin spice glaze.
- Brush: Optional, but helpful for evenly coating the bacon with the glaze.
- Paper towels: For draining excess oil after cooking.
If you’re new to cooking turkey bacon, I recommend using medium-low heat to prevent it from drying out. And if you don’t have a brush, you can use the back of a spoon to spread the glaze.
Preparation Method
- Prepare the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of maple syrup, 1 teaspoon of pumpkin spice, and 1/4 teaspoon of smoked paprika. Set aside.
- Heat the skillet: Place a large skillet over medium heat and add a teaspoon of olive oil. Let it heat up for about a minute.
- Cook the turkey bacon: Lay the turkey bacon slices in the skillet, making sure they don’t overlap. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until crispy and golden brown.
- Brush with glaze: Once the bacon is cooked, use a brush or spoon to evenly coat each slice with the pumpkin spice glaze. Flip and repeat on the other side.
- Caramelize the glaze: Cook the bacon for an additional 30 seconds on each side to let the glaze caramelize. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
- Drain and serve: Remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on paper towels to drain any excess oil. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper if desired.
And there you have it—crispy, sweet, and smoky turkey bacon that’s ready to enjoy!
Cooking Tips & Techniques
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet: Cook the bacon in batches if needed to ensure even cooking.
- Low and slow: Turkey bacon cooks quickly, so use medium-low heat to avoid drying it out.
- Glaze timing: Wait until the bacon is fully cooked before adding the glaze to avoid sticking or burning.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste the glaze before applying it and tweak the sweetness or spice level as needed.
- Keep it crispy: Let the bacon cool slightly on paper towels—it helps maintain the crisp texture.
I’ve learned through trial and error that turkey bacon can be a little tricky to crisp up, but using a touch of oil and cooking it slowly makes all the difference. And if you’re in a rush, you can prep the glaze ahead of time!
Variations & Adaptations
- Vegan option: Use plant-based bacon and agave syrup instead of maple syrup for a vegan-friendly alternative.
- Spicy twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the glaze for a subtle kick.
- Seasonal touch: Swap out pumpkin spice for apple pie spice or even chai spice for a different fall vibe.
- Extra smoky: Double the smoked paprika for a bolder flavor profile.
- Sweet and savory: Serve the bacon with a drizzle of honey or alongside a dollop of Greek yogurt for a unique pairing.
Personally, I’ve tried the spicy twist, and it’s a game-changer for anyone who loves a bit of heat. Feel free to experiment and find your favorite variation!
Serving & Storage Suggestions
This pumpkin spice turkey bacon is best enjoyed warm and crispy, but it’s versatile enough for any meal.
- Serving ideas: Pair it with scrambled eggs, pancakes, or even a fall-inspired salad. A hot cup of coffee or apple cider makes the perfect beverage pairing.
- Storage tips: Store leftover bacon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating methods: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes or in a skillet over low heat until warmed through.
- Flavor development: The pumpkin spice glaze intensifies as it sits, so don’t be surprised if leftovers taste even better!
If you’re hosting a brunch, you can prep the bacon and glaze ahead of time—just cook and glaze right before serving for the freshest taste.
Nutritional Information & Benefits
This recipe is a lighter twist on traditional bacon and comes with some nutritional perks:
- Calories: Approximately 45 calories per slice.
- Protein: Turkey bacon is a great source of lean protein.
- Low-fat: Contains less fat compared to pork bacon, making it a healthier option.
- Seasonal spices: Pumpkin spice ingredients like cinnamon and ginger have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Dietary considerations: Naturally gluten-free and can be adapted for paleo or keto diets.
While turkey bacon isn’t completely free of sodium, it’s a better choice for those watching their fat intake. Plus, the addition of pumpkin spice gives it a boost in flavor without extra sugar.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a way to bring the cozy flavors of fall to your breakfast table, this pumpkin spice turkey bacon recipe is it. It’s a unique twist on a classic favorite, easy to make, and perfect for sharing with loved ones—or keeping all to yourself!
I love how this recipe transforms a simple ingredient like turkey bacon into something truly special. The pumpkin spice glaze is a game-changer, and it’s bound to become a seasonal staple in your home. So, grab your skillet, whip up this irresistible recipe, and let me know how it turns out!
Leave a comment below with your favorite variations or share this recipe with your fellow foodies. Let’s spread the fall flavor love!
FAQs
Can I use regular bacon instead of turkey bacon?
Absolutely! Regular bacon works well with the pumpkin spice glaze, but keep in mind it may be higher in fat and calories.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can mix the glaze ahead of time, but cook the bacon right before serving for the best texture and taste.
What’s the best way to reheat turkey bacon?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes or in a skillet over low heat to maintain crispiness.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as your turkey bacon and spices are gluten-free, this recipe fits gluten-free diets.
Can I use honey instead of maple syrup?
Yes, honey works as a great substitute and adds a slightly different sweetness to the glaze.
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Irresistible Pumpkin Spice Turkey Bacon Recipe You’ll Love
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A unique twist on turkey bacon with a cozy pumpkin spice glaze that combines sweet and savory flavors, perfect for fall breakfasts or brunches.
Ingredients
- Turkey bacon
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice (blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves)
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of maple syrup, 1 teaspoon of pumpkin spice, and 1/4 teaspoon of smoked paprika. Set aside.
- Heat the skillet: Place a large skillet over medium heat and add a teaspoon of olive oil. Let it heat up for about a minute.
- Cook the turkey bacon: Lay the turkey bacon slices in the skillet, making sure they don’t overlap. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until crispy and golden brown.
- Brush with glaze: Once the bacon is cooked, use a brush or spoon to evenly coat each slice with the pumpkin spice glaze. Flip and repeat on the other side.
- Caramelize the glaze: Cook the bacon for an additional 30 seconds on each side to let the glaze caramelize. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
- Drain and serve: Remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on paper towels to drain any excess oil. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper if desired.
Notes
[‘Cook turkey bacon on medium-low heat to prevent drying out.’, ‘Prepare the glaze ahead of time for convenience.’, ‘Taste the glaze before applying and adjust sweetness or spice level as needed.’, ‘Let the bacon cool slightly on paper towels to maintain crisp texture.’]
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 45
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 150
- Fat: 1.5
- Saturated Fat: 0.5
- Carbohydrates: 3
- Protein: 4
Keywords: pumpkin spice, turkey bacon, fall recipe, breakfast, brunch, healthy, seasonal, easy recipe





