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Irresistible Sweet Bacon Crackers

Category: Snacks That Bring People Together

Effortless snack featuring crackers loaded with creamy herbed cheese and spiced candied bacon. Ready with only five simple ingredients!
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By Sophie Parker Sophie Parker
Updated on Wed, 05 Mar 2025 17:10:45 GMT
Candied Bacon Crackers with Cheese Save
Candied Bacon Crackers with Cheese | tastybysophie.com

These Boursin candied bacon crackers became a staple appetizer in my recipe collection after tasting them at a game day gathering. The magical combination of creamy herb cheese, caramelized brown sugar bacon, and buttery crackers creates an irresistible bite that disappears quickly at any party. The contrast of textures and blend of savory, sweet and subtle heat make them completely addictive.

At every gathering, these appetizers consistently earn rave reviews and recipe requests. The combination of flavors and textures creates an appetizer that guests can't resist coming back for repeatedly.

Essential Ingredients

  • Club crackers: Traditional rectangular butter crackers provide the ideal sturdy base while adding richness
  • Thin-sliced bacon: Regular cut bacon cooks more evenly than thick-cut varieties
  • Boursin cheese: The garlic and herb variety adds creamy texture and savory flavor
  • Brown sugar: Creates a sweet caramelized coating on the bacon
  • Red pepper flakes: Adds balanced heat that enhances the other flavors
Boursin Candied Bacon Crackers Recipe Save
Boursin Candied Bacon Crackers Recipe | tastybysophie.com

Preparation Method

Proper Pan Preparation

Line the baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup. Place a cooling rack on top to allow excess bacon fat to drip away during cooking.

Cheese Application

Spread Boursin in an even 1/8 inch layer across each cracker. This provides ideal flavor without excess that could spill during baking.

Bacon Technique

Cut bacon strips into quarters and place flat across each cheese-topped cracker for even cooking and optimal texture.

Final Touches

Sprinkle brown sugar generously over bacon. Add red pepper flakes sparingly on edges and more heavily toward centers.

Baking Process

Bake at 300°F, rotating pan halfway through, until bacon cooks completely and sugar caramelizes properly.

Choosing quality bacon makes a significant difference in the final texture. Proper meat-to-fat ratio ensures crispy results rather than chewy spots.

Presentation Options

These appetizers work equally well on elegant serving platters or casual party plates. Consider pairing with fresh fruit for flavor contrast. Distribute multiple serving plates throughout gathering spaces.

Variations

Fresh herbs like rosemary can be added before baking. Alternative soft cheeses work well. Consider hot honey instead of pepper flakes, or add cinnamon to the sugar for sweet variations.

Advance Preparation

Assemble up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate unbaked. Once baked, store in airtight containers for 3-4 days. Refresh in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes before serving.

Easy Boursin Candied Bacon Crackers Recipe Save
Easy Boursin Candied Bacon Crackers Recipe | tastybysophie.com

Expert Suggestions

  • Prepare measured ingredients in separate bowls
  • Slightly freeze bacon for easier cutting
  • Use room temperature cheese for smooth spreading

This appetizer consistently impresses guests while requiring minimal kitchen expertise. The combination of flavors creates an irresistible bite that keeps people reaching for more.

Recipe FAQs

→ What happens if I use thick bacon cuts?
Thicker cuts take a lot more time to cook and may not get crispy enough for this recipe.
→ Could I swap out the Boursin cheese?
Sure thing! Cream cheese mixed with herbs works as a decent alternative but won't quite match the flavor of Boursin.
→ Can I tweak the spice amount?
Definitely! Lower the red pepper flakes or skip them if you can’t handle spice, or boost them for more heat.
→ Should I make these fresh or ahead?
You can prepare them in advance! Keep them refrigerated for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
→ Why use such a low oven temperature?
Running the oven at 300°F lets the bacon slowly caramelize without burning the crackers or cheese.

Bacon Cheese Bites

Crispy crackers meet smooth Boursin cheese, with a topping of sweet and hot candied bacon for an easy-to-make party treat.

Prep Time
20 min
Cook Time
35 min
Total Time
55 min
By Sophie Parker: Sophie Parker

Category: Party & Snacks

Skill Level: Beginner

Cuisine: American

Yield: 40 Servings (40 crackers)

Dietary Preferences: ~

Ingredients

→ Base

01 1 lb standard or thin-cut bacon (avoid thick slices)
02 1-1.5 packs of Club crackers
03 One package (5.3 oz) of Boursin cheese (herb and garlic or black pepper)

→ Topping

04 2 tablespoons of crushed red pepper flakes
05 Half a cup of packed dark brown sugar

Steps

Step 01

Preheat the oven to 300°F. Cover a baking tray with foil or parchment to catch any bacon drippings, then put a cooling rack on top.

Step 02

Pour red pepper flakes and brown sugar into two small bowls. Cut bacon strips into four pieces to match the size of the crackers.

Step 03

Spread Boursin cheese on crackers, about an eighth of an inch thick. Arrange them neatly on the rack you prepped earlier.

Step 04

Lay a piece of the cut-up bacon on top of each cracker, then generously sprinkle some brown sugar. Add a bit of red pepper flakes to finish.

Step 05

Bake for 35-45 minutes. Rotate the tray halfway through baking and start checking after 30 minutes. They’re ready when bacon is cooked and the edges turn golden.

Step 06

These are great served warm or at room temperature!

Notes

  1. Can sit out for a few hours at room temperature.
  2. Store in the fridge for 3-4 days.
  3. You can freeze them for up to two months.

Required Tools

  • A baking sheet
  • Either parchment or aluminum foil
  • A wire rack for cooling
  • Small bowls for the toppings

Allergy Information

Check each ingredient for potential allergens and consult a healthcare professional if needed.
  • Has dairy (Boursin cheese).
  • Contains wheat (crackers).

Nutritional Facts (per serving)

These details are provided for informational purposes and aren't a substitute for medical advice.
  • Calories: 65
  • Fats: 4 g
  • Carbohydrates: 6 g
  • Proteins: 1 g