Million Dollar Bacon Crostini (Print-Friendly Version)
Caramelized bacon, creamy goat cheese, and crisp baguette unite in this crowd-pleasing holiday appetizer. Brown sugar, Dijon, and fresh herbs add gourmet flair for easy party prep. This one's truly a keeper.
# Ingredients You’ll Need:
→ Glazed Bacon
01 -
1 pound thick-cut bacon
02 -
1/3 cup packed brown sugar
03 -
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
→ Crostini Base
04 -
1 French baguette, cut into 1/2-inch slices
05 -
Olive oil, for brushing
→ Toppings
06 -
8 ounces goat cheese, at room temperature
07 -
2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped
08 -
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
09 -
Freshly cracked black pepper
# How to Make It:
01 -
Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 -
In a small bowl, combine brown sugar and Dijon mustard until fully blended.
03 -
Arrange bacon strips on prepared baking sheet and brush evenly with brown sugar mixture.
04 -
Bake bacon for 15 to 20 minutes or until crisp and caramelized. Remove from oven, allow to cool slightly, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
05 -
Place baguette slices on a separate baking sheet and brush each slice lightly with olive oil.
06 -
Toast in oven for 8 to 10 minutes until the bread is golden brown and crisp.
07 -
Generously spread softened goat cheese on each toasted baguette slice.
08 -
Top crostini with chopped candied bacon.
09 -
Garnish with fresh chives, thyme leaves, and a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper. Serve immediately while the crostini are warm and crisp.
# Extra Suggestions:
01 -
Thick-cut bacon yields superior texture and holds its shape when chopped.
02 -
Avoid overcooking bacon, as residual heat will continue to crisp it.
03 -
Toast baguette slices just before assembly to preserve optimal crunch.
04 -
Goat cheese may be replaced with cream cheese or ricotta for a milder flavor.
05 -
For bite-sized appetizers, substitute cocktail bread or crackers.
06 -
Candied bacon can be prepared up to two hours ahead; reheat briefly before serving.