Description
Indulgent Parmesan Candied Bacon Crackers are a deliciously savory and sweet appetizer perfect for entertaining. Crispy bacon layered on buttery crackers, sprinkled with brown sugar and Parmesan cheese, creates a delightful balance of flavors and textures that melt in your mouth. Easy to prepare and baked to perfection, these crackers make an irresistible snack or party treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Base
- 1 box Butter Crackers (or Triscuits or baguette slices as alternatives)
Toppings
- 12 slices Bacon (Turkey bacon can be used for a lighter option)
- 1/2 cup Brown Sugar (Maple sugar can enhance the flavor)
- 1 cup Parmesan Cheese (Pecorino Romano for a bolder taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper (Optional; cayenne pepper can be added for a kick)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking the crackers and bacon evenly.
- Prepare Baking Setup: Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup and place a wire rack on top. The rack allows air to circulate around the bacon and crackers, helping them cook evenly and get crispy.
- Arrange Crackers and Toppings: Lay the butter crackers in a single layer on the wire rack. Carefully place a slice of bacon on each cracker, then sprinkle each with brown sugar and grated Parmesan cheese. Add black pepper or cayenne pepper if using for extra flavor.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is bubbly and starting to brown slightly.
- Cool: Remove from the oven and let the crackers cool slightly on the wire rack. This helps the bacon crisp up further and the sugar to set, making the crackers easier to handle and enjoy.
Notes
- For a lighter alternative, substitute turkey bacon for traditional bacon.
- Try using Pecorino Romano cheese to add a sharper, more intense flavor.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper with the black pepper for a spicy kick.
- Using a wire rack helps prevent sogginess by allowing fat to drip away from the bacon and crackers.
- These crackers are best served warm but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
