Set the oven or air fryer at 350F. Lay the bacon strips on a rack and bake until it's crispy but not burnt. Set aside.
Mix the bourbon and brown sugar in a sauce pan over low to med heat and simmer to reduce until syrupy. (Save some the leftover of this bourbon syrup to drizzle to the dessert later.)
Brush the bacon strips on both sides evenly and bake/air fry at 400F until the glaze is semi-dry, toasted and set. Arrange the strips on a rack to rest so as to allow the glaze to dry and harden.