Million Dollar Bacon Crostini
These crostinis combine crispy caramelized bacon with a creamy sweet-tangy cream cheese spread on toasted baguette slices, perfect for parties or brunch appetizers.
Equipment
- 1 oven set to 375°F
- 1 baking sheet lined with parchment paper
- 1 mixing bowl for seasoning and cream cheese mix
- 1 wire rack for cooling bacon
- 1 brush for oiling baguette slices
Ingredients
- 6 slices thick-cut bacon
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 French baguette sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 1 cup cream cheese softened
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
- 1 small jalapeño diced (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Olive oil for brushing
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Mix brown sugar, black pepper, and cayenne pepper in a bowl until combined.
- Lay bacon strips on a parchment-lined baking sheet and sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over the bacon.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until bacon is crispy and caramelized, then transfer to a wire rack to cool.
- Slice the baguette into 1/2-inch rounds and lightly brush both sides with olive oil.
- Toast the baguette slices in the oven for 5-7 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Combine softened cream cheese with maple syrup in a bowl, stirring until smooth.
- Chop cooled bacon into small pieces.
- Spread cream cheese mixture evenly over toasted baguette slices.
- Top each crostini with chopped bacon, chopped chives, and diced jalapeño if using.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.
Notes
- Tempeh bacon works well for a vegetarian version.
- Try goat cheese for a unique flavor twist.
- Perfect as a party appetizer or brunch snack.
- Use leftover bacon in salads or breakfast recipes.