This Million Dollar Bacon Crostini is a tasty snack that combines crispy bacon, sweet maple syrup, and spicy cayenne pepper on crunchy toasted bread. It’s hard to resist!
These little bites are perfect for any gathering or just a treat for yourself. I can’t help but eat a few more than planned! Trust me, you’ll want to share… or not! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baguette: A French baguette adds the perfect crunch. If you can’t find one, any crusty bread like ciabatta, Italian bread, or even sliced sourdough will work well!
Bacon: Thick-cut bacon gives a meaty bite and great texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey bacon can be used, but it won’t be as crispy or flavorful. You could also try vegetarian bacon for a plant-based version.
Cream Cheese: This adds a creamy base. If you’re dairy-free, you can substitute with a block of vegan cream cheese or even hummus for a different flavor twist!
Herbs: Fresh chives and parsley bring brightness. You could swap these for dill or green onions if you prefer or if they’re what you have on hand. Dried herbs also work in a pinch, just remember to use less.
What’s the Best Way to Toast Baguette Slices?
Toasting your baguette properly is key for that ideal crunch. Follow these steps:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) for even toasting.
- Slice the baguette into 1/2-inch thick pieces. This thickness gives the right balance of crunch and softness.
- Arrange the slices on a baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring they don’t touch. This allows hot air to circulate and toast evenly.
- Toast for about 8–10 minutes. Keep an eye on them – they can go from golden to burnt quickly!
- Once they’re a beautiful golden brown, flip them halfway if you want both sides crunchy.
Enjoy those perfectly toasted slices as a base for your toppings!
How to Make Million Dollar Bacon Crostini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crostini:
- 1 French baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick pieces
- 8 slices thick-cut bacon
For the Cream Cheese Mixture:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
- Fresh ground black pepper, to taste
- Salt, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful appetizer takes about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll need about 10 minutes to gather and prep your ingredients and then another 10 minutes for cooking and assembling everything together. Perfect for a quick and tasty treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Toasting the Baguette:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the sliced baguette on a baking sheet. Toast in the oven for about 8–10 minutes, watching closely until they turn golden brown and become crunchy. Once done, remove them from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.
2. Cooking the Bacon:
While your bread is toasting, place the bacon strips in a skillet over medium heat. Cook them until they are crispy and golden brown. Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess grease. Chop half of the bacon into small pieces, and keep the rest in strips for topping the crostini.
3. Making the Cream Cheese Mixture:
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped chives, parsley, maple syrup, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until smooth and well combined, creating a flavorful spread for your crostini.
4. Assembling the Crostini:
Now it’s time to assemble! Spread a generous layer of the cream cheese mixture on each toasted baguette slice, making sure to cover the surface well.
5. Adding the Bacon:
Take a whole crispy bacon strip and place it right on top of the cream cheese. Then, sprinkle the chopped bacon pieces over the top for extra crunch.
6. Drizzling and Garnishing:
If you like a touch of sweetness, drizzle a little extra maple syrup over each crostini. For an added touch, you can sprinkle a few more chopped herbs on top.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Million Dollar Bacon Crostini immediately as a delicious appetizer or snack. Get ready to enjoy the delightful combination of sweet, savory, creamy, and crispy flavors in every bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Bread for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While a French baguette is traditional, you can use any crusty bread like ciabatta, sourdough, or even gluten-free bread if needed. Just ensure it can hold up to the toppings!
How to Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The crostini might lose some crunch, but you can re-toast them briefly in the oven to freshen them up!
Can I Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture in Advance?
Yes! You can make the cream cheese mixture a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just let it sit at room temperature for a bit before spreading on the toasted baguette slices to make it easier to work with.
What Variations Can I Try?
Feel free to get creative! You can add ingredients like crumbled blue cheese, jalapeños for heat, or even sun-dried tomatoes for a different flavor twist. Experimenting can lead to delicious new creations!
