Million Dollar Bacon Goat Cheese Appetizer Log: A Cozy Favorite
Imagine a chilly afternoon, with the golden glow of the season wrapping your home in cozy warmth. The scent of something irresistibly delicious begins to drift through the air. That’s how I felt when I first concocted this Million Dollar Bacon Goat Cheese Appetizer Log. This delightful appetizer perfectly marries the crispy, savory goodness of turkey bacon with the creamy richness of goat cheese, creating a dish that feels indulgent yet inviting.
This recipe has quickly become a favorite at gatherings, perfectly suited for entertaining or just enjoying a little indulgence during a cozy night in. Whether you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing treat for your next Holiday party or a delightful snack for a cozy evening, this creamy appetizer will wrap you in comfort. Truly, this is one you’ll definitely want to pin for later!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- No-bake deliciousness—simply whip up the bacon goodness and assemble the log.
- A crowd-pleaser that combines savory turkey bacon with creamy goat cheese.
- Perfect for pairing with crusty baguette slices for a cozy, shareable experience.
- Versatile flavors with the option to customize ingredients for your palate.
What You’ll Need
Gather These Simple Ingredients:
- 1 pack of thick-cut turkey bacon
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 tablespoon water
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 baguette
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- 4 or 8-ounce log of goat cheese
- Maple syrup (or honey, or hot honey)
Let’s Make It Together
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Make the Million Dollar Bacon: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, water, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Brace yourself for an aromatic journey as you let the enticing scent of sugar and spices blend together!
Prepare the Bacon: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper (this makes cleanup a breeze!). Arrange the turkey bacon slices in a single layer, and drizzle your lovely sugar mixture evenly over the bacon. Bake for about 15-20 minutes until the bacon is crispy and caramelized—just watch it carefully so it doesn’t burn!
Make the Crostini: While the bacon is baking, slice the baguette into 1/2-inch thick rounds. Brush each side lightly with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Bake the crostini slices in the oven with the bacon during the last 5-7 minutes until they are golden and crisp.
Assemble the Millionaire’s Bacon Goat Cheese Appetizer Log: Once the bacon has cooled slightly, chop the crispy pieces into bits. In a mixing bowl, combine the goat cheese with a drizzle of maple syrup (or honey) to taste. Spread the goat cheese mixture onto a large serving platter into a log shape, then generously sprinkle the turkey bacon bits over the top.
Serve and Enjoy: Arrange the crostini around the log, and drizzle with a bit more maple syrup for a touch of sweetness. You’re all set for a cozy gathering!
Delicious Variations to Try
- Herbed Delight: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the goat cheese for a zesty twist.
- Fiery Kick: Add a touch of sriracha to your maple syrup drizzle for a lovely heat.
- Nutty Indulgence: Sprinkle chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts over the top for a crunchy texture.
- Fruit Fusion: Serve alongside slices of apple or pear for a sweet, crisp contrast to the savory bacon.
Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips
- Make-Ahead Advice: You can prepare the bacon and crostini a day in advance. Simply store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator, then assemble just before your guests arrive.
- Ingredient Swaps: Feel free to substitute the goat cheese with a rich cream cheese or a tangy feta cheese, depending on your taste preferences.
- Serving Size Guidance: This recipe serves about 6-8 people, so feel free to double it for larger gatherings!
- Storage Suggestions: Leftover bacon and goat cheese can be stored separately in the fridge for up to 3 days.
What’s Inside – Nutrition Breakdown
- Serving Size: 1 ounce (approx. 1/4 of log)
- Calories: 180
- Total Carbohydrates: 8g
- Sugar: 4g
- Fat: 12g
- Protein: 6g
- Sodium: 380mg
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this ahead? Yes! Prepare the bacon and crostini a day in advance and assemble just before serving.
- Can I use different ingredients? Absolutely! Swap out the goat cheese for cream cheese or feta, and feel free to use different spices to suit your taste.
- How do I store leftovers? Store any leftover bacon and goat cheese separately in the fridge in airtight containers.
- How long does it last? It’s best enjoyed fresh but can be stored for up to 3 days in the fridge.
A Cozy Closing Note
This Million Dollar Bacon Goat Cheese Appetizer Log is more than just a delicious dish; it’s a celebration of flavors and memories shared around the table. Ideal for gathering friends and family, this recipe will surely bring warmth and joy to your home. Save this Million Dollar Bacon Goat Cheese Appetizer Log to your Pinterest board so it’s ready when you need a cozy treat! Happy cooking and gathering!
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Million Dollar Bacon Goat Cheese Appetizer Log
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A delightful appetizer that combines savory turkey bacon with creamy goat cheese, perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients
- 1 pack of thick-cut turkey bacon
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 tablespoon water
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 baguette
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- 4 or 8-ounce log of goat cheese
- Maple syrup (or honey, or hot honey)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, water, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the turkey bacon slices in a single layer. Drizzle the sugar mixture evenly over the bacon. Bake for about 15-20 minutes until crispy and caramelized.
- While the bacon is baking, slice the baguette into 1/2-inch thick rounds. Brush each side lightly with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Bake the crostini slices in the oven with the bacon during the last 5-7 minutes until golden and crisp.
- Once the bacon has cooled slightly, chop it into bits. In a mixing bowl, combine the goat cheese with a drizzle of maple syrup (or honey). Spread the goat cheese mixture onto a serving platter into a log shape, then sprinkle the turkey bacon bits over the top.
- Arrange the crostini around the log, and drizzle with more maple syrup if desired. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
Make ahead for convenience; bacon and crostini can be prepared a day in advance. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ounce
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: appetizer, bacon, goat cheese, party food, quick recipe, no bake
