Description
Indulgent Parmesan Candied Bacon Crackers are a perfect blend of savory and sweet, featuring crispy bacon slices topped with brown sugar and Parmesan cheese on buttery crackers. Baked to perfection, these irresistible appetizers deliver a delightful combination of crunchy, cheesy, and smoky flavors ideal for gatherings or indulgent snacking.
Ingredients
Scale
Base
- 1 box Butter Crackers (Triscuits or baguette slices can be used as alternatives)
Topping
- 12 slices Bacon (Turkey bacon is a lighter option)
- 1/2 cup Brown Sugar (Maple sugar can enhance flavor)
- 1 cup Parmesan Cheese (Pecorino Romano can be used for a bolder taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper (Cayenne pepper can be added for a kick)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the crackers with toppings.
- Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup, then place a wire rack on top to allow even heat circulation and crisping.
- Assemble Crackers: Arrange the butter crackers in a single layer on the wire rack. Lay one slice of bacon over each cracker, then evenly sprinkle brown sugar and grated Parmesan cheese over the bacon. Finish by adding black pepper or cayenne pepper if you prefer some heat.
- Bake: Place the assembled crackers in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the cheese melts into a bubbly golden topping.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the crackers from the oven and let them cool slightly on the wire rack so they firm up before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Using turkey bacon can reduce fat content for a lighter option.
- Maple sugar can be substituted for brown sugar to add a richer sweetness.
- Pecorino Romano cheese offers a stronger, more pungent flavor compared to Parmesan.
- Cayenne pepper adds a spicy kick if you want to elevate the flavor profile.
- Using a wire rack ensures even crispiness by allowing air circulation around the crackers and bacon.
- Letting the crackers cool slightly is crucial to avoid burning your mouth and to let toppings set.
