Bacon Crackers Sweet Savory

Bacon Crackers bring together buttery club crackers and thin slices of bacon wrapped snugly, topped with brown sugar and black pepper, then baked until crispy and caramelized. This recipe offers a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors in a quick and fuss free snack that shines at any party or casual get together. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a delicious appetizer that everyone will keep coming back for.

I first made these for a lastminute party and everyone kept coming back for more. They have been a goto ever since.

Ingredients

• Club crackers: Provide a sturdy and buttery base that holds up well to the bacon and sugar topping Choose rectangular crackers like Townhouse or Ritz for easier wrapping and cutting
• Thin sliced bacon: Is key to cooking the bacon through without burning the crackers Thin slices become crisp faster and meld beautifully with the sweet sugar topping
• Brown sugar: Melts and caramelizes creating a sticky sweet glaze that coats the bacon and crackers adding a rich candied flavor Pack light or dark brown sugar packed tightly for best results
• Black pepper: Adds a subtle spice that balances the sweetness of the sugar This is optional but freshly ground pepper works best for that gentle heat

Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit Line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup then place an ovensafe wire rack on top to allow air circulation which helps the bacon crisp evenly

Prepare the Bacon and Crackers:

Slice the bacon slices in half to create 32 smaller pieces Take one piece of bacon and wrap it snugly around each club cracker making sure it covers most of the cracker surface without overlapping too thickly Arrange the crackers on the wire rack spaced evenly to allow heat to circulate around each piece

Add Brown Sugar and Pepper:

Using a teaspoon or your fingers sprinkle about half a teaspoon of brown sugar on top of the bacon on each cracker Spread it evenly so it caramelizes consistently Sprinkle a small amount of black pepper on top of each piece if using to add a gentle heat that complements the sweet and salty flavors

Bake Until Crispy and Golden:

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes Check after 20 minutes as baking time may vary depending on your oven and bacon thickness The bacon should be crispy and the sugar melted caramelized with a rich golden brown color

Cool Before Serving:

Remove the crackers from the oven and allow them to cool on the rack for about five minutes Cooling helps the sugar to set and the crackers to become perfectly crisp without burning your fingers Serve warm or at room temperature for the best texture and flavor

I love how the brown sugar transforms simple bacon and crackers into something special and every time I make these they bring back memories of festive family gatherings.

Storage Tips

Store leftover bacon crackers at room temperature for up to two hours to keep them crispy For longer storage place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days Reheat briefly in a hot oven or toaster oven to restore crispiness You can freeze them for up to one month Thaw in the fridge and reheat gently before serving

Ingredient Substitutions

Honey can replace brown sugar for a different type of natural sweetness and sticky glaze Swap black pepper for crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne powder if you enjoy heat Add cream cheese on each cracker before wrapping the bacon for a creamy contrast Top with sliced jalapenos before baking for a spicy variation

Serving Suggestions

Serve bacon crackers alongside a cheese board or a fresh green salad They go perfectly with cold beer or cocktails making them a standout at any party or game day spread

These bacon crackers are an easy irresistible snack perfect for parties. Serve warm and enjoy.

Common Recipe Questions

→ What type of crackers work best?

Buttery club crackers like Townhouse or Ritz with a rectangular shape are ideal since they hold bacon well and wrap easily.

→ Can I use thick bacon slices?

Thin sliced bacon cooks faster and crisps evenly without burning the crackers, making it the preferred option.

→ What can I substitute for brown sugar?

Honey can replace brown sugar to provide a different type of natural sweetness and sticky glaze.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Store at room temperature up to 2 hours or refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Freezing is also possible for up to 1 month.

→ Can I add other toppings?

Yes, cream cheese under the bacon or sliced jalapenos on top before baking add extra flavor and texture.

→ Is black pepper necessary?

Black pepper is optional but adds a subtle heat that complements the sweet and salty balance.