1. Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving about 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the skillet.
3. Stir in the brown sugar, maple syrup, and bourbon. Let the mixture bubble gently for 2-3 minutes to cook off the alcohol and thicken slightly.
4. Add the balsamic vinegar, black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the mixture is rich and jam-like.
5. Stir in the crispy bacon, mix well, and simmer for 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
6. Season both sides of the Sliders with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
7. Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the Sliders for 2-3 minutes per side or until they reach your desired doneness.
8. During the last minute of cooking, add a slice of American cheese to each Slider. Cover the skillet to help the cheese melt.
9. Place a cooked Slider on the bottom side of each biscuit.
10. Top each Slider with a generous layer of bourbon bacon jam.
11. Top with the remaining biscuit halves and serve immediately.