Introduction

Million Dollar Bacon Crostini combine sweet, spicy, and savory flavors for an irresistible appetizer. Crispy caramelized bacon pairs beautifully with creamy goat cheese and a touch of honey on toasted baguette rounds. This elegant yet simple bite is perfect for parties or a special snack.

The image shows several small pieces of toasted bread arranged closely on a wooden board, each topped with a layer of soft white cheese, followed by a crispy, dark brown caramelized bacon strip, and finished with green herb sprinkles on top. The bread looks golden and crunchy, with a shiny glaze, likely honey, dripping slightly around the edges and pooling on the wooden board. In the blurred background, a white bowl and a honey dipper on a wooden plate are visible. The setting surface has a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 packs thick-cut bacon
½ cup brown sugar
1 tbsp water
1 tsp black pepper
½ tsp cayenne pepper
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
1 tsp smoked paprika or maple syrup (optional, for brushing after baking)
1 large baguette, sliced into 24 rounds
Olive oil (for brushing)
Salt and pepper to taste
8 oz goat cheese log (or mix with a bit of cream cheese for a milder version)
Maple syrup, honey, or hot honey (for drizzling)
Chopped fresh thyme, chives, or candied pecans (optional garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top.
Step 2: In a bowl, mix the brown sugar, water, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Dredge each bacon strip in this mixture, coating well, then lay them on the wire rack.
Step 3: Bake the bacon for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until it is crisp and caramelized. If desired, brush with smoked paprika or maple syrup after baking. Let the bacon cool, then chop or break into bite-sized pieces.
Step 4: Brush the baguette slices with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and toast them on a baking sheet in the oven at 375°F for 8–10 minutes. Flip once during toasting until golden and crisp.
Step 5: Spread goat cheese on each toasted crostini. Top with pieces of the caramelized bacon, then drizzle lightly with maple syrup, honey, or hot honey.
Step 6: Finish by sprinkling chopped fresh herbs or candied pecans on top for added flavor and presentation.

Tips & Variations

For a milder cheese flavor, mix the goat cheese with a bit of cream cheese before spreading.
If you like garlic, rub the toasted baguette slices with a peeled garlic clove before adding toppings for extra flavor.
Adjust the heat level by omitting or increasing the red pepper flakes and cayenne pepper according to your preference.
Try using smoked paprika or brushing the bacon with maple syrup after baking for a smoky or sweeter twist.
Use honey or hot honey for drizzling to vary the sweetness and heat balance.

Storage

Store the bacon separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Keep toasted crostini in a sealed bag at room temperature for 1-2 days to maintain crunch. Assemble the crostini just before serving to avoid sogginess. Leftover assembled crostini are best eaten within a few hours. Reheat bacon gently in a skillet for a few minutes if desired.

How to Serve

The image shows several pieces of toasted bread slices arranged closely on a wooden board. Each slice has three clear layers: a golden brown, crispy toasted bread base, a thick layer of white soft cheese spread on top, and a glossy, rich-looking layer of dark crispy bacon strips placed above the cheese. The bacon pieces are glazed with a shiny glaze and sprinkled with small green herb bits. In the background, there is a honey dipper resting on a white bowl on a white marbled surface. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make the bacon ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the Million Dollar Bacon a day or two in advance. Keep it refrigerated in an airtight container and re-crisp in the oven or skillet before assembling the crostini.

What can I use instead of goat cheese?

Cream cheese, ricotta, or feta are good alternatives. Mixing goat cheese with cream cheese will mellow the flavor for a creamier spread.