When the weather outside is frightful, it's time to make Pig Candy and sip Kentucky Bourbon. What is Pig Candy, you ask? Pig Candy is smoked, caramelized bacon. Or, in other words, sweet, salty, sticky and savory slices of goodness.

I've wanted to make this for a long time and figured what better way to finish 2012 than with Pig Candy. I followed a recipe in Adam Perry Lang's book "Serious Barbecue," but added a basting of pure maple syrup at the end.

For as much spice packed into this recipe, I was shocked to see the kids eat it up, although on second thought, it is bacon after all.

Not much I'd change here other than then next time I'd drizzle it with semi-sweet chocolate and serve it alongside a scoop of Blue Bell.

Click on my photos to follow my day of BBQ'n!

Also, be sure to check www.glenellynbackyardbbq.com; www.gebbq.blogspot.com and www.facebook.com/GlenEllynBackyardBBQ for updates as we prepare for Glen Ellyn's 5th Annual Backyard BBQ Cook-Off!