In the lively hum of my kitchen, the aroma of sizzling bacon fills the air, instantly elevating my mood. Today, I’m excited to share my go-to appetizer — Million Dollar Bacon Crostini. This delightful treat harmonizes crunchy baguette slices topped with creamy goat cheese and a sweet-spicy bacon glaze. Not only does it come together in under an hour, but it also steals the spotlight at any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or a more formal dinner party, this crowd-pleaser guarantees that your guests will keep coming back for more! Curious about how to turn these simple ingredients into a delicious sensation? Let’s dive right in!
Why is this crostini a must-try?
Simplicity: This recipe requires minimal ingredients and can be whipped up in under an hour, making it perfect for impromptu gatherings.
Savory-Sweet Delight: The combination of crispy bacon, creamy goat cheese, and a sweet glaze creates an irresistible flavor explosion that’s bound to impress.
Versatile Options: Feel free to experiment with cheeses or try a vegetarian twist—like leaving out the bacon or swapping in turkey bacon!
Impressive Presentation: Beautifully garnished with fresh herbs or candied pecans, these crostini are as visually appealing as they are delicious.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfectly suited for any occasion, from game nights to holiday parties, everyone will want the recipe after just one bite! If you love bacon, don’t forget to check out my Spicy Sriracha Bacon for another incredible dish!
Million Dollar Bacon Crostini Ingredients
For the Bacon Topping
• Thick-cut bacon – Ensures a rich, savory flavor and the ideal crispy texture.
• Brown sugar – Provides sweetness and helps caramelize the bacon; can be substituted with coconut sugar for a healthier twist.
• Water – Necessary to dissolve the brown sugar for an even coating; no substitutes needed.
• Black pepper – Enhances the overall flavor of the bacon; adjust based on your taste preferences.
• Cayenne pepper – Adds a zing of heat; feel free to omit for a milder flavor.
• Red pepper flakes – Optional for an extra kick; leave out if you prefer less spiciness.
For the Crostini Base
• Large baguette – Serves as the crispy foundation for your Million Dollar Bacon Crostini; can be replaced with gluten-free bread if necessary.
• Olive oil – Used for brushing the baguette to achieve that perfect golden-brown crispness.
• Salt and pepper – For seasoning the baguette slices allowing the flavors to shine; tweak to your taste.
For the Toppings
• Goat cheese – Creamy and tangy, adding a delightful contrast to the bacon; for a milder taste, blend with cream cheese.
• Maple syrup, honey, or hot honey – Infuses sweetness that complements the bacon, choose according to your personal preference.
• Fresh herbs (thyme, chives) or candied pecans – Optional garnishes that elevate both flavor and presentation.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Million Dollar Bacon Crostini
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven warms up, line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup and place a wire rack on top. This setup allows the heat to circulate evenly around the bacon, ensuring it becomes perfectly crispy for your Million Dollar Bacon Crostini.
Step 2: Prepare the Bacon Mixture
In a medium-sized bowl, mix together brown sugar, water, black pepper, cayenne, and optional red pepper flakes until well combined. Dredge each strip of thick-cut bacon in the mixture, making sure it’s thoroughly coated in the sweet and spicy glaze. Lay the bacon strips flat on the wire rack, leaving space between them for proper airflow.
Step 3: Bake the Bacon
Slide the bacon-covered wire rack into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. About halfway through, flip the bacon strips to ensure even cooking. You’ll know the bacon is done when it appears crispy and caramelized, with a deliciously sticky glaze. Allow the bacon to cool before chopping or breaking it into bite-sized pieces.
Step 4: Toast the Baguette Slices
While the bacon cools, slice the large baguette into 24 rounds, each about half an inch thick. Brush both sides with olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper. Arrange the baguette slices on a separate baking sheet and place them in the oven for 8-10 minutes, flipping them once, until they are golden brown and crispy.
Step 5: Assemble the Crostini
Once the crostini is toasted to perfection, take them out of the oven and let them cool slightly. Generously spread a layer of creamy goat cheese on each crisp baguette slice. Top with the chopped pieces of sweet and spicy bacon, making sure to evenly distribute the toppings for each Million Dollar Bacon Crostini.
Step 6: Add the Finishing Touches
To elevate your creation, drizzle your choice of maple syrup, honey, or hot honey over the bacon on each crostini. For an extra touch of elegance, sprinkle fresh herbs like thyme or chives, or add candied pecans for a delightful crunch. Serve immediately while the crostini is still warm and crispy, allowing your guests to savor every delicious bite!
Make Ahead Options
These Million Dollar Bacon Crostini are fantastic for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the bacon up to three days in advance by cooking it as directed, allowing it to cool, and then storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The crostini base can also be toasted up to 24 hours ahead; simply keep them in a sealed container at room temperature to maintain their crispness. When you’re ready to serve, just spread the goat cheese on the toasted baguette slices, add the bacon, drizzle with your choice of syrup, and garnishes if desired. This way, you’ll impress your guests with minimal last-minute effort, all while ensuring your crostini remain just as delicious!
Storage Tips for Million Dollar Bacon Crostini
Room Temperature: Keep assembled crostini at room temperature for up to 1 hour to prevent sogginess. If they sit longer, store bacon and crostini separately.
Fridge: Store any leftover bacon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Allow it to come to room temperature before reheating.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked bacon pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. Use within 2 months for best flavor.
Reheating: Reheat bacon in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed and crispy again, about 10 minutes. Reassemble Million Dollar Bacon Crostini just before serving for maximum crunch!
Million Dollar Bacon Crostini Variations
Feel free to take this delightful crostini to new heights by customizing it to suit your tastes!
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the bacon and use roasted mushrooms or marinated artichokes as a hearty topping. This twist keeps the crostini satisfying while catering to vegetarians.
- Turkey Bacon: Swap out the bacon for turkey bacon for a lighter alternative that still packs a flavor punch. It’s a great way to enjoy the same sweet-spicy goodness without the extra fat.
- Different Cheeses: Try using blue cheese for a sharp, tangy kick or cream cheese for a milder, creamier spread instead of goat cheese. Each offers a rich texture that complements the bacon perfectly.
- Sweet Twist: Drizzle a bit of melted chocolate over the finished crostini for a unique dessert version. The chocolate pairs intriguingly with the bacon, creating a sweet-and-savory delight.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh rosemary or basil to the bacon mixture before baking for an aromatic twist. These herbs elevate the flavor, adding a fresh brightness to every bite.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños or sriracha into the bacon mixture for an extra layer of heat. If you’re a fan of spice, this will surely satisfy your cravings!
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle crushed candied pecans or walnuts on top before serving for an added crunch and a touch of sweetness. They provide a delightful contrast to the creamy and crispy components.
If you’re ever looking to spice things up, don’t forget to check out my French Lentil Bacon for another mouthwatering dish! Each variation mentioned will allow you to create your own version of Million Dollar Bacon Crostini, ensuring there’s something delicious for everyone.
What to Serve with Million Dollar Bacon Crostini
Enhance your gathering with delightful accompaniments that perfectly complement this sweet and spicy appetizer.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery richness and smooth texture pair wonderfully with the crunchy crostini, creating a comforting mouthful of flavors.
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Mixed Green Salad: A crisp salad with light vinaigrette adds freshness, balancing the savory richness of the crostini perfectly. The greens will cleanse your palate beautifully.
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Sparkling Wine: This bubbly beverage offers a delightful contrast to the rich bacon, enhancing the overall dining experience with its effervescence.
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Honey Roasted Carrots: These sweet, tender veggies bring in a touch of earthiness that contrasts fantastically with the salty and spicy bacon.
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Bruschetta with Tomatoes: A colorful, juicy tomato bruschetta adds another layer of flavor and texture, drawing your guests into a full Mediterranean experience.
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Fruit Platter: Include a selection of fresh fruits like strawberries or grapes— their sweetness balances the spiciness of the Million Dollar Bacon Crostini and adds a refreshing note.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: End on a sweet note by offering classic cookies. The comforting taste of chocolate will appeal to both kids and adults alike.
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Pale Ale: Pair this crostini with a cold pale ale for a crisp, hoppy flavor that cuts through the richness while accentuating the spice of the bacon.
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Iced Tea with Mint: A refreshing iced tea, especially with mint, can elevate your meal, providing a cooling contrast to the warm crostini.
Expert Tips for Million Dollar Bacon Crostini
- Thick-Cut Bacon: Choose thick-cut bacon to ensure it retains its texture and crispiness during cooking; regular bacon can become too greasy.
- Wire Rack Use: Utilize a wire rack for baking the bacon—this allows the grease to drain away and achieves maximum crispness for your Million Dollar Bacon Crostini.
- Monitor Closely: Keep an eye on the bacon during the final baking minutes; it can go from perfectly caramelized to burnt very quickly, so check frequently!
- Garlic Flavor Boost: For a more profound flavor, rub a garlic clove on the toasted baguette slices just before adding the toppings; it elevates the taste beautifully.
- Storage Tip: If prepping ahead of time, store crostini and bacon separately in airtight containers to maintain their respective textures until serving.
Million Dollar Bacon Crostini Recipe FAQs
What type of bacon is best for this recipe?
For the best results, absolutely opt for thick-cut bacon. It creates a rich, savory flavor while ensuring a delightful crispy texture. Regular cut bacon tends to get too greasy during cooking, which might take away from that perfect crostini experience.
How should I store leftover crostini?
If you have any leftover crostini, it’s crucial to store the components separately. Keep the bacon in an airtight container at room temperature if to be consumed within an hour, or refrigerate for up to 3 days. The crostini can also be stored at room temperature for about 1 hour before storing. For longer storage, it’s best to keep them in separate airtight containers to maintain their individual textures.
Can I freeze the bacon for later use?
Yes, you can! To freeze the bacon, lay the cooked pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet and place it in the freezer until fully frozen. Then, transfer the bacon to an airtight container or a freezer bag for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy your Million Dollar Bacon Crostini again, simply reheat the bacon in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until crispy.
What if I want to make it vegetarian?
You can easily make a vegetarian version of Million Dollar Bacon Crostini by omitting the bacon altogether. Consider using roasted vegetables or a hearty tapenade as a topping. Also, swapping the goat cheese for a cream cheese mixture or a vegan cheese option would work beautifully, providing that creamy contrast without the meat.
How do I prevent sogginess when assembling the crostini in advance?
To avoid sogginess, it’s best to prepare the bacon and crostini separately and assemble them just before serving. If you must prepare them in advance, store the bacon and crostini in their separate airtight containers and reassemble them right before your guests arrive for that perfect crispy bite.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Very much! If goat cheese isn’t your favorite, you can experiment with other options like cream cheese for a milder flavor or even blue cheese for a bolder taste. Just ensure that whatever cheese you choose complements the sweet and spicy bacon topping beautifully!
Irresistible Million Dollar Bacon Crostini for Any Gathering
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil and a wire rack.
- In a bowl, mix brown sugar, water, black pepper, cayenne, and optional red pepper flakes. Coat each bacon strip in the mixture and place on the wire rack.
- Bake the bacon for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through until crispy and caramelized. Let cool, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
- Slice the baguette into 24 rounds, brush with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Bake in the oven for 8-10 minutes until golden brown.
- Spread goat cheese on each toasted baguette slice, top with chopped bacon pieces, distributing evenly.
- Drizzle with your choice of maple syrup, honey, or hot honey, and garnish with fresh herbs or candied pecans. Serve warm.
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