Cornflake-coated crispy bacon is quickly becoming a trend in kitchens worldwide, offering a crunchy, flavorful twist to traditional breakfast fare. This creative spin on classic bacon combines the savory taste of bacon with the satisfying crunch of cornflakes, creating a new favorite for breakfast lovers. Here, we’ll explore how to make this delicious dish, why it’s a must-try, and provide useful tips to make it perfect every time.
What Is Cornflake-Coated Crispy Bacon?
Cornflake-coated crispy bacon is exactly what it sounds like – crispy strips of bacon coated in crushed cornflakes before being fried or baked to crunchy perfection. The result is a tantalizing combination of salty, savory bacon and the golden crunch of cornflakes, adding a delightful texture to each bite.
Why Cornflakes? Cornflakes add an extra layer of crispiness to bacon that makes it even more indulgent. They also absorb some of the bacon fat as it cooks, leaving behind a light, crispy coating rather than a greasy one.
Why Should You Try Cornflake-Coated Crispy Bacon?
Flavor Explosion: This dish brings together two classic breakfast items—bacon and cereal. The contrast between the salty bacon and sweet, crunchy cornflakes makes for an irresistible flavor combination.
Perfect for Entertaining: Whether you’re hosting brunch or looking for something unique for your guests, cornflake-coated bacon is sure to impress. It adds a gourmet twist to a familiar favorite that will leave your guests asking for the recipe.
Easy to Make: Despite its sophisticated appeal, cornflake-coated bacon is surprisingly easy to prepare. It requires only a few ingredients and can be customized with different seasonings.
Ingredients Needed for Cornflake-Coated Crispy Bacon
To make this delicious breakfast treat, you only need a handful of basic ingredients:
- Bacon: Select thick-cut bacon for the best texture.
- Cornflakes: Crushed into fine crumbs for the perfect coating.
- Eggs: Used to bind the cornflakes to the bacon.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and optional spices like paprika or garlic powder.
How to Make Cornflake-Coated Crispy Bacon: Step-by-Step Recipe
Making cornflake-coated crispy bacon is simple and quick, perfect for busy mornings or brunch gatherings. Use these steps to achieve perfectly crispy bacon every time:
Step 1. Preheat Your Oven or Frying Pan
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) if baking, or heat a skillet over medium heat if frying. Both methods work, but baking provides a more uniform crispiness.
Step 2. Prepare the Cornflake Coating
In a shallow bowl, crush the cornflakes into fine crumbs. You can put them in a plastic bag and crush them using a rolling pin. Add a pinch of salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings.
Step 3. Beat the Eggs
In a separate bowl, beat 2-3 eggs. The egg mixture will help the cornflakes adhere to the bacon.
Step 4. Coat the Bacon
Dip each strip of bacon into the egg mixture, then press it into the crushed cornflakes, making sure to coat both sides evenly.
Step 5. Cook the Bacon
- For Baking: Place the coated bacon strips on a lined baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.
- For Frying: Place the bacon strips in a heated skillet and fry for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until crispy.
Step 6. Let It Cool
After cooking, move the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Tips for Achieving the Perfect Cornflake-Coated Crispy Bacon
Use Thick-Cut Bacon
Thick-cut bacon holds up better to the cornflake coating and provides a heartier bite. Thin bacon may crisp up too much or break apart during cooking.
Don’t Skip the Seasoning
While bacon is already flavorful, adding extra seasoning to the cornflakes can elevate the dish. Try adding a dash of paprika, cayenne pepper, or even a bit of sugar for a sweet and spicy twist.
Bake for a Healthier Option
While frying yields a classic crispy texture, baking the bacon allows for a healthier option as it reduces the amount of grease absorbed.
Pair with Sweet Syrups
For an extra indulgent experience, drizzle maple syrup or honey over the cornflake-coated bacon. The sweetness perfectly balances the saltiness of the bacon and the crunch of the cornflakes.
What Goes Well with Cornflakes?
Cornflakes are a versatile ingredient that pairs well with both sweet and savory foods. Here are some ideas for what goes well with cornflakes:
- Fresh Fruits: Add cornflakes to a bowl of sliced bananas, strawberries, or berries for a refreshing and healthy breakfast.
- Yogurt or Milk: Pair cornflakes with yogurt or milk for a classic breakfast option. You can also top with nuts and honey for extra flavor.
- Desserts: Use crushed cornflakes as a topping for ice cream, puddings, or baked goods like muffins for added crunch.
Cornflakes can also be used in savory recipes, such as cornflake-coated chicken or cornflake-coated crispy bacon, to add an unexpected texture to your favorite dishes.
Recipes with Kellogg’s Corn Flakes
Here are a few creative recipes with Kellogg’s Corn Flakes that go beyond breakfast:
Cornflake-Coated Chicken
Chicken breasts coated in crushed Kellogg’s Corn Flakes and baked until crispy. This offers a healthier and crunchier option compared to traditional fried chicken.
Cornflake-Crusted Mac and Cheese
Add crushed cornflakes on top of your baked mac and cheese to give it a crunchy topping that contrasts with the creamy pasta underneath.
Cornflake-Coated Fish Sticks
For a unique twist on classic fish sticks, coat them in cornflakes before frying or baking. This provides a crispy, golden exterior.
Cornflake Chocolate Clusters
Melt chocolate, mix in some crushed cornflakes, and spoon them onto a baking sheet to make delicious, crispy cornflake clusters.
Nutritional Value of Cornflake-Coated Crispy Bacon
While this isn’t a low-calorie dish, it’s certainly a treat worth enjoying in moderation. On average, one serving of cornflake-coated bacon (about two slices) contains:
- Calories: 250-300
- Protein: 10-12 grams
- Fat: 20 grams
- Carbohydrates: 10-15 grams (from the cornflakes)
These values can vary based on the thickness of the bacon and the quantity of cornflakes used.
Variations to Try with Cornflake-Coated Bacon
There are many ways to experiment with this dish to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Here are a few variations:
Spicy Cornflake-Coated Bacon
Add crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne to the cornflake mixture for a spicy kick.
Sweet and Savory Bacon
Incorporate brown sugar or cinnamon into the cornflake coating for a sweet-savory flavor combination.
Gluten-Free Option
For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free cornflakes or crushed rice cereal.
Cheese-Coated Bacon
For extra indulgence, sprinkle grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese into the cornflake mix before coating the bacon.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with both sweet and savory breakfast items. Here are some ideas:
- Pancakes or Waffles: Serve alongside fluffy pancakes or waffles drizzled with syrup for a classic breakfast combo.
- Eggs: Pair with scrambled or poached eggs for a complete meal.
- Fruit Salad: Add a light and refreshing side of fresh fruit to balance the richness of the bacon.
Conclusion
Cornflake-coated crispy bacon is an exciting and delicious way to elevate your breakfast routine. Whether you’re serving it at a brunch, making it as a treat for yourself, or experimenting with different flavor variations, this dish offers something for everyone. With its perfect combination of crunch and flavor, it’s bound to become a new favorite. Try it today, and enjoy the unique blend of savory, crispy, and sweet that cornflake-coated bacon brings to your plate!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Make Cornflake-Coated Crispy Bacon Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the bacon and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to regain its crispiness.
2. Is There a Vegan Alternative?
Yes, you can substitute bacon with plant-based bacon alternatives and use a vegan egg substitute to create a vegan version of this dish.
3. Can I Use Other Types of Cereal?
While cornflakes are the most popular choice, you can try other cereals like Rice Krispies or panko breadcrumbs for different textures.
4. What Are the Best Dips for Cornflake-Coated Bacon?
Cornflake-coated bacon pairs well with honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or even a spicy aioli for added flavor.
