Looking for a snack that's equal parts sweet, salty and downright addictive? Candied bacon crackers offer the perfect balance of indulgence and crunch that's guaranteed to impress — whether you're hosting a party, preparing snacks for a cozy family movie night or simply treating your loved ones.
Read on for easy-to-follow instructions and insider tips to nail these crispy bites every time. Let's dive in!
Candied bacon crackers: A snack that wins every occasion
Why choose candied bacon crackers? With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a gourmet-level treat that's sure to wow your guests. Plus, whether it's for a game night or a holiday gathering, this pork recipe is endlessly customizable. Craving more heat, extra sweetness or different buttery crackers? You're in charge!
The magic is in the balance — sweet, savory and crispy perfection that wins over every taste bud.
A step-by-step guide to sweet and savory candied bacon cracker perfection
Serves: 6-8
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20-25 min
Ingredients
- 1 pack Hatfield® Applewood Smoked Bacon, cut into thirds.
- 1 pack of rectangular butter crackers.
- ¾ cup brown sugar.
- 2 Tbs. of pure maple syrup.
- A pinch of cayenne pepper.
- A pinch of freshly ground black pepper.
- 1 tsp. red pepper flakes (optional).
Instructions for preparing candied bacon crackers at home
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Then, line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil, and place a wire rack on top for more even cooking.
- Step 2: In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, maple syrup, cayenne pepper, black pepper and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until the sugar is evenly coated with the syrup and spices.
- Step 3: Arrange the butter crackers in a single layer on the wire rack, leaving a bit of space between each cracker.
- Step 4: Place a bacon piece (cut to fit the cracker) on top of each cracker. Press lightly to secure it.
- Step 5: Spoon a small amount of the sugar mixture over each bacon-topped cracker, spreading it gently to coat the bacon evenly.
- Step 6: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and caramelized. Keep an eye on them in the last few minutes to prevent burning.
- Step 7: Remove the tray from the oven and let the candied bacon crackers cool on the wire rack for five to 10 minutes.
- Step 8: Serve warm or at room temperature for the perfect sweet-and-savory snack.
Ready to jump in? You can head to your local grocery store to pick up your favorite Hatfield® pork products today!
Tips and tricks for irresistible candied bacon crackers
Here are a few helpful hints to ensure your crispy crackers and candied bacon turn out just right every time:
- Choose the right crackers: Go for sturdy options like Club crackers or Ritz crackers. Their shape and subtle flavor pair perfectly with the bacon and caramelized topping.
- Opt for regular bacon: Not sure whether to use regular or thick-cut bacon? Stick with regular slices, like Hatfield® Hardwood Smoked Bacon, for even cooking and crispiness. Thick-cut bacon might take longer to cook and could overpower the flavor.
- Line your baking sheet: Always line your rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil to catch drippings and make cleanup a breeze. The wire rack also supports airflow and deliciously crispy results.
- Don't skimp on sugar: Generously coat each bacon piece with dark brown sugar. This glaze is the secret to that irresistible caramelized finish.
- Add a flavor boost: Even a sprinkle of cayenne pepper, red pepper chili flakes or paprika can add an extra kick to this recipe. Or, you can add a drizzle of maple syrup for extra sweetness instead.
- Watch the bake time: Be sure to keep an eye on your crackers as they bake. Overcooking can burn the sugar or dry out the bacon, so pull them out when the bacon is golden and crispy.
- Let rest before serving: Allow the crackers to cool on the rack before serving. This gives the caramelized topping time to set, making them easier to handle and even more delicious!
Candied bacon cracker FAQs: Your secret to snack success
Got questions about making the perfect candied bacon crackers? We've got you covered! Let's take a closer look at what you need for snack-time success:
Can I make the crackers ahead of time?
Absolutely! If you're short on time before a gathering, you can easily prepare this recipe in advance. Simply store the crackers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For the best results, let them cool completely before storing to keep that irresistible crispiness intact.
How can I prevent the crackers from getting soggy?
Letting your crackers cool completely on the wire rack after baking is key to avoiding sogginess. This lets the caramelized topping set perfectly and prevents excess moisture. Storing them in a cool, dry place will also help maintain their crunch.
What can I use instead of brown sugar?
If you don't have brown sugar, you can substitute granulated sugar mixed with a small amount of molasses for a similar flavor. Or, you might use maple syrup or honey for a different take on sweetness. Just be mindful that liquid sweeteners may change the texture slightly.
Can I add cheese to this recipe?
If you're a cheese lover, feel free to add a small slice of cheddar or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese to the cracker before wrapping it in bacon. As it bakes, the cheese will melt into the cracker, adding a rich, savory layer to the sweet and salty mix.
Are there any savory toppings I can add for extra flavor?
For a savory twist, try adding cracked black pepper, smoked paprika or a touch of garlic powder to the brown sugar mix. You can also top the crackers with chopped nuts, like pecans or almonds, for a crunchy, earthy flavor.
Can I make candied bacon crackers in an air fryer?
Absolutely! The air fryer is a game-changer for quick, crispy candied bacon crackers. Preheat it to 375°F, line the basket with parchment paper to catch those sugary drips and place crackers out in a single layer. Cook for seven to 10 minutes, keeping an eye on them so the bacon doesn't get too crispy.
Elevate your holiday snacking with Hatfield®
Candied bacon crackers bring the ultimate combo of sweet, savory and crispy to your holiday gatherings — or even a laid-back night at home. At Hatfield®, high-quality pork is crafted with care and packed with flavor, so you can confidently treat your loved ones to something special. This holiday season, let expertly pre-seasoned pork help you elevate every bite — whether it's these irresistible bacon crackers or any of your other favorite recipes.
Ready to wow your crowd? Head to your local grocery store to pick up your favorite Hatfield® pork products today.
