Root Beer Candied Bacon

Prepare bacon by removing from packaging, and place side-by-side on a wire rack.  Make sure the bacon doesn't overlap at all. Set aside

In a small pan over medium heat, combine the root beer and brown sugar - bring to a boil then lower heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes.  When done it'll be syrupy and will coat the back of a spoon.  At this point, stir in maple syrup, black pepper and cayenne.

Brush each strip of bacon with the root beer glaze so that the bacon is covered.

Place bacon in oven for 15-20 minutes until a dark amber brown, but not charring at all.  Remove from oven and let cool on the rack.  It'll firm and crisp up at this time as the bacon cools and the sugars crystalize.