These Parmesan Candied Bacon Crackers are a delicious mix of sweet and salty flavors. Crispy bacon meets gooey cheese on a crunchy cracker, making a perfect bite-sized treat!
Every time I make these, my friends disappear faster than I can put them out! They’re super easy and always a hit at parties. Just watch your guests ask for the secret recipe! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bacon: Use thick-cut bacon for a meaty bite and better caramelization. If you want a healthier option, turkey bacon can work, but the results may vary in flavor and texture.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is best for flavor. If unavailable, Pecorino Romano adds a nice twist. Nutritional yeast makes a great dairy-free alternative if you’re vegan!
Brown Sugar: It’s the secret to that candy-like glaze. You can substitute regular sugar or coconut sugar, but brown sugar gives a light molasses flavor that’s hard to beat.
Crackers: Ritz crackers offer a buttery flavor, but try using whole grain or gluten-free options if desired. Just make sure they’re sturdy enough to hold the toppings.
How Do I Get My Bacon Perfectly Crispy?
Crispy bacon is key for this recipe. Follow these tips for the best results:
- Preheat the oven fully before placing the bacon inside to help it crisp up quickly.
- Don’t overcrowd the bacon. Arranging slices without overlap ensures even cooking and crisping.
- Keep an eye on your bacon in the last few minutes. It can go from almost done to burnt quickly!
Let the bacon cool slightly after baking; it will crisp up even more as it cools.
These tips will help you master the bacon for your Parmesan Candied Bacon Crackers, making them a hit at your next gathering!
How to Make Parmesan Candied Bacon Crackers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 slices bacon
- 1 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- Salt (optional, to taste)
- Crackers (Ritz or similar buttery crackers)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty treat takes about 30 minutes total! You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and another 15-18 minutes baking the bacon. Once everything is assembled, just a few minutes in the oven will have your crackers ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to catch any drippings from the bacon.
2. Arrange the Bacon:
Lay the bacon slices flat on the lined baking sheet, making sure they’re not overlapping. This allows them to cook evenly and get wonderfully crispy!
3. Add the Sweetness:
Sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the bacon slices. This is what will give your bacon that sweet, caramelized goodness!
4. Bake the Bacon:
Bake the bacon in the oven for about 15-18 minutes, or until it starts to crisp up and caramelize. Keep an eye on it to make sure it doesn’t burn!
5. Prepare the Crackers:
While the bacon is baking, take your crackers and sprinkle a thin layer of grated Parmesan cheese on each one. It’s a cheesy paradise waiting to happen!
6. Chop the Bacon:
Once the bacon is done, transfer each piece to a cutting board. Let it cool slightly, then chop it into bits that will fit nicely on your crackers.
7. Assemble the Crackers:
Place each Parmesan-topped cracker on another baking sheet and press a piece of the candied bacon on top. They’re starting to look delicious already!
8. Add Extra Flavor:
If you like, sprinkle a little extra salt or more Parmesan on top of the bacon for added flavor. It’s all up to your taste!
9. Final Bake:
Put the assembled crackers back into the oven for 3-5 minutes, until the cheese melts slightly and everything is warm and inviting.
10. Cool and Serve:
Carefully remove the crackers from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. This allows the cheese and bacon to set together perfectly. Then they’re ready to serve!
Enjoy your sweet, salty, cheesy Parmesan Candied Bacon Crackers! They’re perfect for parties or just a delightful snack whenever you like!
Can I Use Regular Cheese Instead of Parmesan?
Yes! While Parmesan gives a unique flavor, you can use other cheeses like mozzarella for a milder taste or even cheddar for a sharper flavor. Just keep in mind that the melting and flavor profiles will differ slightly.
What If I Want to Make This Recipe in Advance?
You can prepare the bacon and assemble the crackers up to a day in advance. Just store the assembled crackers in an airtight container in the fridge and bake them just before serving to get that fresh, warm goodness!
How Should I Store Leftover Crackers?
If you have leftovers (though they usually don’t last long!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that they may lose some crispiness, but you can reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to revive that crunch!
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Absolutely! If you like a kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the brown sugar before sprinkling it on the bacon. You can also use spicy bacon for an extra heat boost!