12 Sweet Onion Bacon Jam Recipes to Elevate Your Brunch Game (You’ll Thank Us Later!)
June 1, 2025 | by Roz L
Brunch is all about indulgence, and what better way to up your brunch game than with sweet onion bacon jam? This deliciously rich spread brings together the savory goodness of caramelized onions and crispy bacon, creating a flavor bomb that will make your brunch spread unforgettable. Whether you slather it on toast, use it as a dip, or sneak it into your breakfast sandwiches, sweet onion bacon jam is sure to impress your guests and family alike.
Our list features twelve mouthwatering recipes that showcase this delightful jam in different ways, ensuring you’ll find the perfect fit for your next brunch gathering. Ready to transform your casual weekend meal into a gourmet experience? Let’s dive into some seriously delicious ideas!
1. Classic Sweet Onion Bacon Jam
This classic sweet onion bacon jam recipe is a perfect starting point. Combining sweet onions, crispy bacon, and a touch of balsamic vinegar, it creates an irresistible spread that pairs beautifully with toasted bread and cheese. The natural sweetness of the onions balances the saltiness of the bacon, creating a harmonious flavor. You can use it on breakfast sandwiches, as a topping for burgers, or even drizzled over scrambled eggs for an extra kick.
Recipe Overview:
– Servings: 16
– Prep Time: 10 minutes
– Cook Time: 50 minutes
– Total Time: 1 hour
– Calories: Approximately 100 per tablespoon
Nutrition Information:
– Fat: 7g
– Carbohydrates: 6g
– Protein: 2g
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 large sweet onions, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook bacon until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
2. In the same skillet, add onions and cook until caramelized, about 30 minutes. Stir occasionally.
3. Add brown sugar and balsamic vinegar, cooking for an additional 10 minutes until thickened.
4. Stir in the bacon, season with salt and pepper, and let cool before storing in jars.
– For a thicker jam, cook it longer on low heat.
– This jam can be canned for long-term storage.
FAQs:
– How long can I store the jam? In the fridge, it’s good for up to a month.
– Can I freeze it? Yes, it freezes well in airtight containers.
2. Spicy Sweet Onion Bacon Jam
If you like a little heat, this spicy sweet onion bacon jam recipe is your go-to. The addition of jalapeños or red pepper flakes adds a kick that perfectly complements the sweetness of the onions and the smokiness of the bacon. This jam is fantastic as a spread on bagels with cream cheese, or as a topping on grilled chicken, adding depth and flavor to any dish.
Recipe Overview:
– Servings: 12
– Prep Time: 15 minutes
– Cook Time: 45 minutes
– Total Time: 1 hour
– Calories: Around 90 per tablespoon
Nutrition Information:
– Fat: 6g
– Carbohydrates: 7g
– Protein: 1g
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bacon, chopped
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook bacon in a skillet until crispy, then remove and drain.
2. In the same skillet, add onions and jalapeños, sautéing until soft.
3. Stir in maple syrup and apple cider vinegar; cook until thickened.
4. Return the bacon to the skillet, mixing everything together. Let cool before transferring to jars.
– Adjust the heat by adding more or fewer jalapeños.
– This jam pairs well with charcuterie boards.
FAQs:
– Can I use other types of peppers? Yes, feel free to experiment with your favorites!
3. Herbed Sweet Onion Bacon Jam
Elevate your brunch with a herbed sweet onion bacon jam that features fragrant herbs like rosemary and thyme. The aromatic herbs add complexity to the classic sweet onion and bacon combination, making it perfect for spreading on crostini or as a flavorful addition to cheese boards. This jam brightens up any dish, enhancing everything from breakfast burritos to savory scones.
Recipe Overview:
– Servings: 14
– Prep Time: 10 minutes
– Cook Time: 40 minutes
– Total Time: 50 minutes
– Calories: Approximately 85 per tablespoon
Nutrition Information:
– Fat: 5g
– Carbohydrates: 6g
– Protein: 2g
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 large sweet onions, sliced
– 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary, chopped
– 2 teaspoons fresh thyme, chopped
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook bacon until crisp in a skillet; drain the grease.
2. Sauté onions in the same skillet until caramelized.
3. Add honey, vinegar, and herbs, stirring until thickened.
4. Mix in crispy bacon and store in jars once cooled.
– Use fresh herbs for the best flavor.
– Great spread for savory pastries or biscuits.
FAQs:
– What can I serve this with? It’s perfect with cheese and crackers!
4. Sweet Onion Bacon Jam with Apples
For a delightful twist, try this sweet onion bacon jam with apples. The sweetness of the apples complements the savory elements beautifully, making it a fantastic topping for pork chops or as a spread on a breakfast muffin. The combination of caramelized onions, crispy bacon, and apples creates a unique jam that is both comforting and deliciously unexpected.
Recipe Overview:
– Servings: 10
– Prep Time: 10 minutes
– Cook Time: 30 minutes
– Total Time: 40 minutes
– Calories: Approximately 95 per tablespoon
Nutrition Information:
– Fat: 6g
– Carbohydrates: 8g
– Protein: 1g
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bacon, chopped
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 1 apple, diced
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook bacon in a skillet until crispy; set aside.
2. Sauté onions until caramelized, then add diced apples and cook until soft.
3. Stir in brown sugar and vinegar, simmering until thickened.
4. Mix in bacon and season before cooling and storing.
– Use tart apples for a more balanced flavor.
– This jam pairs beautifully with grilled meats.
FAQs:
– How can I use this jam? It’s great on burgers or mixed into salads.
5. Sweet Onion Bacon Jam with Mustard
This sweet onion bacon jam with mustard adds a zesty kick that can elevate any savory dish! The tangy mustard creates a fantastic flavor contrast, making it a great spread for sandwiches or as a glaze for roasted vegetables. This jam is fantastic on brunch sandwiches or as a dip for pretzels, offering a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy.
Recipe Overview:
– Servings: 12
– Prep Time: 10 minutes
– Cook Time: 35 minutes
– Total Time: 45 minutes
– Calories: Around 90 per tablespoon
Nutrition Information:
– Fat: 5g
– Carbohydrates: 7g
– Protein: 2g
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 sweet onions, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup grainy mustard
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Fry bacon until crispy and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add onions and sauté until caramelized.
3. Stir in mustard, brown sugar, and vinegar; simmer until thick.
4. Finally, mix in the bacon and cool before storing.
– This jam works well as a marinade for meats.
– Serve with crusty bread to balance the flavors.
FAQs:
– Is this jam good for canning? Yes, it’s great for preserving.
6. Sweet Onion Bacon Jam with Cranberries
Celebrate the flavors of fall with sweet onion bacon jam featuring cranberries! This delightful combination blends the sweet, tart taste of cranberries with the richness of onions and bacon, making it a wonderful accompaniment to turkey sandwiches or as a topping for cheese platters. The sweet and sour notes make it refreshing and perfect for any holiday-themed brunch.
Recipe Overview:
– Servings: 12
– Prep Time: 15 minutes
– Cook Time: 30 minutes
– Total Time: 45 minutes
– Calories: About 100 per tablespoon
Nutrition Information:
– Fat: 5g
– Carbohydrates: 9g
– Protein: 1g
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 onions, sliced
– 1 cup fresh cranberries
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook bacon until crisp, then remove and drain.
2. Sauté onions until caramelized, then add cranberries stirring until they burst.
3. Add brown sugar and vinegar; simmer until thick.
4. Stir in the bacon and let cool before storing.
– This jam is fantastic with cream cheese on crackers.
– Perfect for holiday gatherings!
FAQs:
– Can I use dried cranberries? Yes, but reduce the cooking time.
7. Sweet Onion Bacon Jam with Figs
For a truly gourmet experience, try this sweet onion bacon jam with figs. The natural sweetness of the figs melds beautifully with the savory bacon and onions, creating a spread that is divine on charcuterie boards or paired with creamy cheeses. This jam is a delightful addition to savory pastries and makes for an elegant topping on crostini.
Recipe Overview:
– Servings: 10
– Prep Time: 10 minutes
– Cook Time: 40 minutes
– Total Time: 50 minutes
– Calories: Approximately 110 per tablespoon
Nutrition Information:
– Fat: 5g
– Carbohydrates: 10g
– Protein: 2g
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 1 cup dried figs, chopped
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook bacon until crispy; set aside.
2. In the same pan, caramelize onions, then add figs, brown sugar, and vinegar.
3. Cook until thickened, stirring frequently.
4. Mix in the bacon and allow to cool before storing.
– This jam is perfect for elevating cheese sandwiches.
– Use fresh figs when in season for additional flavor.
FAQs:
– How long does this last? It keeps for about 3 weeks in the refrigerator.
8. Sweet Onion Bacon Jam with Peppers
Add a colorful twist to your brunch with sweet onion bacon jam that includes bell peppers. The sweetness of the peppers melds seamlessly with the onions and bacon, and this vibrant spread is perfect for adding a pop of color to your breakfast dishes. Spread it on omelets, use it in breakfast burritos, or as a unique topping for grilled burgers.
Recipe Overview:
– Servings: 14
– Prep Time: 10 minutes
– Cook Time: 30 minutes
– Total Time: 40 minutes
– Calories: About 95 per tablespoon
Nutrition Information:
– Fat: 5g
– Carbohydrates: 9g
– Protein: 2g
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 large sweet onion, sliced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook bacon in a skillet until crispy and set aside.
2. Sauté onions and bell peppers until soft.
3. Add brown sugar and vinegar, stirring until the mixture thickens.
4. Finally, mix in the bacon and let cool before transferring to jars.
– Use different colored peppers for a vibrant presentation.
– Fantastic on grilled cheese sandwiches or burgers.
FAQs:
– Can I make this vegetarian? Yes, just omit the bacon and add olive oil.
9. Sweet Onion Bacon Jam with Garlic
For those who love garlic, this sweet onion bacon jam recipe incorporates roasted garlic for a deep, rich flavor. The roasted garlic pairs perfectly with the sweet onions and bacon, creating a spread that is incredible on savory pancakes or as a topping on a gourmet burger. This jam is a flavor powerhouse that can elevate any brunch spread.
Recipe Overview:
– Servings: 12
– Prep Time: 15 minutes
– Cook Time: 30 minutes
– Total Time: 45 minutes
– Calories: Approximately 100 per tablespoon
Nutrition Information:
– Fat: 6g
– Carbohydrates: 8g
– Protein: 2g
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bacon, chopped
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 6 cloves of roasted garlic
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook bacon until crispy; remove and drain.
2. Sauté onions until they caramelize, then stir in the roasted garlic.
3. Add brown sugar and vinegar; simmer until thickened.
4. Mix in the bacon and let it cool before storing.
– Roasting garlic in olive oil for added richness is a great idea.
– It’s an amazing spread on focaccia bread.
FAQs:
– How do I roast garlic? Wrap whole bulbs in foil and roast at 400°F for about 30-40 minutes.
10. Sweet Onion Bacon Jam with Caramelized Pears
Indulge in a luxurious version of sweet onion bacon jam that features caramelized pears. The sweetness of the pears paired with onions and crispy bacon creates a jam that is perfect for topping off a savory breakfast dish or served alongside cheese. This sweet and savory combination is sure to impress at any brunch gathering.
Recipe Overview:
– Servings: 10
– Prep Time: 10 minutes
– Cook Time: 30 minutes
– Total Time: 40 minutes
– Calories: Approximately 110 per tablespoon
Nutrition Information:
– Fat: 6g
– Carbohydrates: 10g
– Protein: 2g
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 sweet onions, sliced
– 1 pear, diced
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook bacon until crispy; remove from pan and drain.
2. In the same skillet, caramelize onions before adding diced pears.
3. Sprinkle in brown sugar and vinegar; simmer until thick.
4. Stir in bacon, season, and cool before storing.
– Serve over warm brie for a decadent appetizer.
– Perfect for autumn-themed brunches!
FAQs:
– What other fruits can I use? Apples or figs would also work well.
11. Sweet Onion Bacon Jam with Lemon Zest
Brighten up your brunch with a sweet onion bacon jam that includes a hint of lemon zest. The fresh citrus notes cut through the richness of the bacon, making it a delightful spread on toast or a topping for fresh salads. This unique twist makes the jam stand out and is fantastic for those sunny weekend brunches.
Recipe Overview:
– Servings: 12
– Prep Time: 10 minutes
– Cook Time: 35 minutes
– Total Time: 45 minutes
– Calories: About 90 per tablespoon
Nutrition Information:
– Fat: 5g
– Carbohydrates: 7g
– Protein: 2g
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bacon, chopped
– 2 onions, thinly sliced
– Zest of 1 lemon
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a skillet, cook bacon until crispy; drain.
2. Sauté onions until caramelized, then stir in lemon zest, honey, and vinegar.
3. Simmer until thickened.
4. Return the bacon to the skillet, mix well and cool before storing.
– This jam enhances the flavor of grilled fish.
– It can also be used in salad dressings for a zesty twist.
FAQs:
– Does lemon juice work too? Yes, but adjust the amount for desired tartness.
12. Sweet Onion Bacon Jam with Nutmeg
For a warm and cozy flavor, try sweet onion bacon jam infused with nutmeg. The nutmeg adds a depth of warmth that pairs beautifully with the bacon and onions, making it a comforting spread that’s perfect for the colder months. Use this jam on biscuits, pancakes, or as an unexpected topping for savory oatmeal.
Recipe Overview:
– Servings: 12
– Prep Time: 10 minutes
– Cook Time: 30 minutes
– Total Time: 40 minutes
– Calories: Approximately 95 per tablespoon
Nutrition Information:
– Fat: 5g
– Carbohydrates: 8g
– Protein: 2g
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 sweet onions, sliced
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook bacon until crispy; remove and drain.
2. Sauté onions until caramelized, then stir in nutmeg, brown sugar, and vinegar.
3. Simmer until it thickens, adding the bacon back in.
4. Let cool before storing in jars.
– Perfect for cozy brunches on chilly mornings.
– This jam goes great with sweet or savory scones.
FAQs:
– What other spices can I experiment with? Cinnamon or allspice could be interesting!
Conclusion
These twelve sweet onion bacon jam recipes will transform your brunch from basic to extraordinary. Whether you prefer it spicy, fruity, or infused with herbs, there’s a recipe here to suit every palate. This versatile jam not only enhances your favorite dishes but also makes gatherings feel special. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to impress your friends and family with these easy yet delicious creations!
