Description
A delightful appetizer featuring crispy, sweet, and spicy bacon on creamy goat cheese crostini.
Ingredients
- 2 packs thick-cut bacon
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 tbsp water
- 1 tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika or maple syrup (optional, for post-bake)
- 1 large baguette, sliced into 24 rounds
- Olive oil (for brushing)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 oz goat cheese log (or cream cheese for a milder version)
- Maple syrup, honey, or hot honey (for drizzling)
- Optional garnish: chopped fresh thyme, chives, or candied pecans
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with foil, placing a wire rack on top.
- In a bowl, mix the brown sugar, water, and spices.
- Dredge the bacon strips in the mixture and lay them on the rack.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until the bacon is crisp and caramelized. Let it cool, then chop or break it into bite-size pieces.
- Brush the baguette slices with olive oil, seasoning with salt and pepper. Toast in the oven for 8–10 minutes until golden.
- Spread goat cheese on each crostini, top with bacon pieces, and drizzle with maple syrup or hot honey.
- Garnish with fresh herbs or candied nuts before serving.
Notes
For extra flavor, try brushing the toasted bread with garlic before adding the goat cheese. For spiciness, increase the amount of cayenne or red pepper flakes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American