• Heat oven to 400 degrees.
• Lay the bacon out in a single layer on a large cookie sheet. Cook in oven until about 3/4 done, about 9-10 minutes and drain on paper towels.
• While bacon is cooking, stir the mustard and syrup together until smooth.

To Serve Right Away:

• Transfer the partially cooked bacon to a baking rack placed on a separate baking sheet. Blot any excess oil with a paper towel. Brush the bacon with the mustard mixture on both sides, sprinkle with pepper if using, and return the bacon to the oven for another 2 to 3 minutes to desired crispness.

To Make Ahead:

• Transfer the bacon to a 13x9 (or larger if needed) baking pan, again laying out in a single layer.
• Use a pastry brush to coat both sides of each piece of bacon with the maple-mustard mixture. Sprinkle with black pepper, if using.
• Cover the pan and refrigerate overnight.
• The next morning, heat the oven to 350 degrees. Place the pan in the oven, uncovered, and bake for about 15 minutes or until the bacon is crisp enough for your tastes.