Million Dollar Bacon Crostini (Print-Friendly Version)

A hit at any party, these fancy toast bites feature sugar-coated bacon, soft goat cheese, and crunchy bread—just right for holidays, get-togethers, or family meals. Tap to save.

# Ingredients You’ll Need:

→ Candied Bacon

01 - 2 packages thick-sliced bacon
02 - 1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar
03 - 1 tablespoon water
04 - 1 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper
05 - 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
06 - 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
07 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika or maple syrup, for coating after cooking (optional)

→ Crostini Base

08 - 1 large French baguette, cut into 24 slices
09 - Olive oil, for brushing
10 - Salt, to taste
11 - Coarsely ground black pepper, to taste

→ Cheese Topping

12 - 8 ounces goat cheese (mix with cream cheese for a softer flavor, if preferred)

→ Finishing Touches

13 - Maple syrup or spicy honey, for drizzling (optional)
14 - Fresh herbs or sugared nuts, for garnish (optional)

# How to Make It:

01 - Heat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover a big baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on it.
02 - Mix brown sugar, water, black pepper, cayenne, and red pepper flakes together in a bowl. Roll each bacon strip in this mixture, making sure it's evenly covered.
03 - Lay coated bacon strips flat on the wire rack. Cook for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping once midway, until the bacon gets nicely caramelized and crunchy. Let it cool completely before cutting into small pieces.
04 - Lightly coat baguette slices with olive oil on both sides. Add a pinch of salt and black pepper. Put them on another baking sheet and toast at 375°F for 8 to 10 minutes, turning once, until they're golden and crunchy.
05 - Smear plenty of goat cheese on each toasted bread slice. Add pieces of candied bacon on top. If you want, drizzle with maple syrup or spicy honey.
06 - Top with fresh herbs or sprinkle some sugared nuts for extra crunch and flavor.

# Extra Suggestions:

01 - Make sure the candied bacon is totally cool before chopping it up - this will give you nice clean cuts.
02 - For more flavor, try adding smoked paprika or brushing the bacon with maple syrup after it's done cooking.

Return