Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F (220C).
Line a rimmed sheet pan with foil. Arrange the bacon on the foil in a single layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 16-18 minutes, until crispy.
Remove the bacon from the pan and drain on a paper towel-lined plate. Once cool, crumble 4 strips of the bacon into pieces. Break the other 4 pieces in half.
Carefully lift the foil from the pan and pour 1 tablespoon of the bacon drippings into a small pot. Add the maple syrup and the bacon crumbles. Bring to a boil and then reduce the heat to low.
Pour over pancakes, waffles or French toast and serve with two half strips of bacon on top.