Bacon Goat Cheese Appetizer Log (Print Version)
A luxurious goat cheese log encrusted with sweet-spicy candied bacon, paired with crispy homemade crostini for elegant entertaining.
# Ingredients:
→ Million Dollar Bacon
01 -
1 pack thick-cut bacon
02 -
1/4 cup brown sugar
03 -
1/2 tablespoon water
04 -
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
05 -
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
06 -
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
→ Crostini
07 -
1 baguette
08 -
olive oil
09 -
salt to taste
10 -
black pepper to taste
→ Additional Ingredients
11 -
4 or 8-ounce goat cheese log
12 -
maple syrup, honey, or hot honey
# Steps to Follow:
01 -
Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper. Place an oven-safe rack over the baking sheet. In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, black pepper, water, and cayenne pepper. Lay bacon slices in a single layer on the prepared rack. Coat both sides of the bacon with the sugar mixture, pressing it into the surface. Sprinkle with red pepper flakes if desired. Bake for 15 minutes, flip the bacon, and bake for another 10-15 minutes until crispy but not burnt. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to cool.
02 -
Increase oven temperature to 425°F (220°C). Slice the baguette into 1/2-inch (1.3 cm) thick slices. Arrange slices in a single layer on a foil-lined baking sheet. Lightly brush with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Bake for 7-10 minutes until crispy and golden brown. Remove and cool for 30 minutes before use.
03 -
Place the goat cheese log on a serving dish. Break cooled candied bacon into small pieces. Press bacon pieces into the goat cheese log, letting some fall around the base as extra garnish. Serve with crostini and drizzle with maple syrup, honey, or hot honey if desired.
# Additional Notes:
01 -
Let crostini cool completely to maintain crispness when serving.
02 -
Use leftover bacon pieces as a snack or garnish for other dishes.