Step 1

Adjust oven rack to middle position and heat oven to 350 degrees. Line rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil. Cut bacon in half crosswise. Arrange bacon on prepared sheet.

Step 2

Combine sugar, pepper, pepper flakes, and cayenne in bowl. Sprinkle sugar mixture evenly over bacon (do not flip and sprinkle on second side). Use your fingers to spread sugar mixture evenly over each piece.

Step 3

Bake until bacon is dark brown and sugar is bubbling, 20 to 25 minutes, rotating sheet halfway through baking. Transfer bacon to wire rack and let cool for 5 minutes. Serve.