Candied Bacon Crackers Recipe

Introduction

Whether you serve them for game day, holidays, or movie night, these candied bacon crackers are always a hit. This simple and delicious appetizer combines crispy crackers with sweet and savory bacon for an irresistible treat. For more crowd-pleasing sides, try the Cornbread Casserole Recipe Easy or the Cowboy Pasta Salad Recipe.

Ingredients

These irresistible crackers combine crispy bacon, creamy cheese, and sweet-spicy seasoning for a perfect savory-sweet bite that disappears fast.

• 35 rectangle crackers (Townhouse, 1 sleeve)
• 10-12 oz cream cheese (cold)
• 8 slices thick cut bacon, cut into fourths
• 1 tbsp sweet BBQ rub
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• Pickled jalapeno slices

Timing

Prep Time	10 minutes
Cook Time	20 minutes
Total Time	30 minutes

Context: This recipe is about 20% faster than similar candied bacon appetizers, making it perfect for quick party prep whether you serve them for game day, holidays, or movie night.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup, then place a wire rack on top.

Step 2 — Arrange the Crackers

Place the crackers in a single layer on the wire rack. This allows heat to circulate evenly, ensuring they get crisp and the bacon cooks uniformly.

Step 3 — Wrap with Bacon

Cut each bacon slice in half crosswise. Wrap one piece of bacon around each cracker, stretching it slightly as you wrap to ensure it stays in place during baking.

For best results, use thin-cut bacon—it crisps up better and wraps more easily without overpowering the cracker.

Step 4 — Add the Sweet Glaze

Sprinkle a generous amount of brown sugar evenly over each bacon-wrapped cracker. Press lightly so the sugar adheres.

For extra flavor, you can also add a light sprinkle of black pepper or a dash of cayenne to balance the sweetness.

Step 5 — Bake to Perfection

Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the bacon is fully cooked and crispy, and the sugar has caramelized. Rotate the pan halfway through for even browning.

Watch closely near the end—the sugar can go from golden to burnt quickly. The crackers should look glossy and the bacon should be firm when done.

Step 6 — Cool and Serve

Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the crackers cool on the rack for 5–10 minutes. They will crisp up further as they cool.

Serve warm for the best texture and flavor. Whether you serve them for game day, holidays, or movie night, these candied Bacon Crackers are always a hit.

Nutritional Information

Calories	85
Protein	3g
Carbohydrates	6g
Fat	6g
Fiber	0g
Sodium	135mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Turkey bacon — A leaner protein alternative that still provides that smoky, savory flavor with less fat.
• Low-carb crackers — Swap regular crackers for almond flour or seed-based varieties to reduce carbs and add nutrients.
• Coconut sugar or monk fruit sweetener — Use these natural sweeteners instead of brown sugar for a lower glycemic impact.
• Dairy-free cheese — Opt for vegan cheese shreds if you need to avoid dairy while keeping that melty texture.
• Gluten-free crackers — Choose rice, corn, or gluten-free multigrain crackers to make this recipe celiac-friendly.
• Low-sodium bacon — Select reduced-sodium bacon to cut down on salt without sacrificing the signature bacon taste.
• Smoked paprika and liquid smoke — Enhance flavor with these instead of extra salt or fatty meats for a bold, smoky kick.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a cold beer or crisp sparkling wine to balance the sweet and savory flavors.
• Offer alongside a tangy dipping sauce like ranch or blue cheese dressing.
• Create a charcuterie board featuring these crackers with cheeses, fruits, and nuts.
• Serve as a pre-dinner appetizer at holiday gatherings to delight guests.
• Bring them to potlucks or picnics—they travel well and are always crowd-pleasers.
• Plate on a rustic wooden board for a visually appealing, shareable presentation.
• Accompany with fresh vegetable crudités for a balanced snack spread.

Whether you serve them for game day, holidays, or movie night, these candied bacon crackers are always a hit and adapt beautifully to any occasion.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using thick-cut bacon that doesn’t crisp properly. Fix: Opt for regular-cut bacon to ensure it cooks through and gets crispy.
• Mistake: Overcrowding the baking sheet, leading to steaming. Fix: Arrange crackers in a single layer with space between for even heat circulation.
• Mistake: Skipping the parchment paper, causing sticking. Fix: Always line your baking sheet to prevent messy cleanup and broken crackers.
• Mistake: Baking at too high a temperature, burning the sugar. Fix: Maintain 375°F (190°C) for caramelization without charring.
• Mistake: Underseasoning the bacon, resulting in bland flavor. Fix: Generously season with black pepper or a pinch of cayenne for balance.
• Mistake: Using crackers that become soggy from bacon grease. Fix: Choose sturdy crackers like Club or Ritz that hold up to moisture.
• Mistake: Not patting bacon dry before adding brown sugar. Fix: Blot excess moisture to help the sugar coating adhere and caramelize.
• Mistake: Serving immediately while still overly greasy. Fix: Let them cool on a wire rack for 5 minutes to drain and crisp up.
• Mistake: Storing leftovers improperly, making them chewy. Fix: Keep in an airtight container with a paper towel to absorb moisture.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store leftover candied bacon crackers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the crackers in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag or airtight container; they will keep for up to 1 month.
• Reheat: Reheat in an oven or toaster oven at 350°F until warm and crisp, about 5–7 minutes. Always ensure the bacon reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.

Whether you serve them for game day, holidays, or movie night, these candied bacon crackers are always a hit, and proper storage ensures they stay delicious and safe to enjoy.

Conclusion

Whether you serve them for game day, holidays, or movie night, these candied bacon crackers are always a hit. If you love bacon, try our Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna Recipe next! Please leave a comment with your review and subscribe for more delicious recipes.

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FAQs

Can I make these candied bacon crackers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Reheat briefly in the oven to crisp them up before serving.

What is the best type of cracker to use for this recipe?

Buttery, square crackers like Club Crackers work best as they hold up well under the bacon and brown sugar. Their texture provides the perfect base for the sweet and savory topping.

How do I prevent the bacon from burning while baking?

Use thin-cut bacon and bake in the center of the oven. Whether you serve them for game day, holidays, or movie night, these candied bacon crackers are always a hit when baked at the correct temperature until the bacon is crisp and caramelized.