These Bacon Mozzarella Poppers are a fun treat! Crispy bacon wraps around gooey mozzarella, and they’re topped with a sweet maple glaze that makes them irresistible.
Who can resist crispy bacon and melty cheese? I love serving these at parties—they always get gobbled up fast, like magic! 🪄✨ Just make sure to save a few for yourself!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bacon: I recommend using thick-cut bacon for extra crispiness. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, turkey bacon works too, although it won’t be as rich in flavor.
Cheese: Mozzarella is perfect, but you can switch it for cheddar or pepper jack for a different taste. Just remember, the cheese should melt well!
Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup gives a wonderful flavor, but honey or agave syrup can also work as a substitute if you’re in a pinch.
Soy Sauce: If you’re avoiding soy, coconut aminos or Tamari are great gluten-free alternatives. They’ll still deliver that nice umami flavor!
How Do I Get the Bacon Extra Crispy?
To achieve that perfect crispy bacon, follow these steps:
- Use a wire rack on a baking sheet; this allows the fat to drip down while the bacon cooks, resulting in a crispier finish.
- Pre-bake the wrapped poppers for 10 minutes before basting them with maple glaze. This helps render some fat out first.
- Keep an eye on the bacon during the last few minutes of baking to prevent it from burning; every oven is a little different.
How to Make Bacon Mozzarella Poppers With Sweet Maple Glaze
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Poppers:
- 12 slices of bacon (regular or thick-cut)
- 12 pieces of mozzarella cheese (string cheese cut into thirds or mozzarella cubes)
For the Sweet Maple Glaze:
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
For Garnishing:
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
- Fresh chopped chives or parsley
- Toothpicks
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to bake, totaling around 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick snack or an impressive appetizer at any gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a wire rack set over a baking sheet. This helps with easy cleanup and crispiness!
2. Wrap the Cheese:
Take each slice of bacon and cut it into thirds. Then, wrap each mozzarella piece tightly with the bacon strip. Use a toothpick to secure the bacon so it doesn’t unravel during baking.
3. Arrange for Baking:
Place the bacon-wrapped mozzarella on the prepared rack or directly on the baking sheet. Make sure to space them evenly to ensure even cooking.
4. Bake Until Crispy:
Pop the tray in the oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them, and look for that crispy bacon and melted cheese inside. Every oven behaves differently, so watch closely!
5. Make the Maple Glaze:
While the poppers are baking, prepare your glaze! In a small saucepan, combine the maple syrup, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, and garlic powder. Heat it over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens slightly—this should take about 3-5 minutes. Then, remove it from heat.
6. Glaze the Poppers:
Once the poppers are out of the oven, let them cool for a minute. Then, brush or drizzle the sweet maple glaze generously over each one. This is where the magic happens!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped chives or parsley on top for an extra pop of flavor and color. They make a lovely presentation, too!
8. Enjoy:
Serve these Bacon Mozzarella Poppers warm as a delightful appetizer or snack. Enjoy that wonderful combination of crispy bacon, stretchy mozzarella, and the sweet-savory maple glaze!
Dig in and enjoy every bite! 🧀🥓✨
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella is classic, you can opt for cheddar or pepper jack for a flavorful twist. Just ensure the cheese melts well for the best results.
Can I Prepare These Poppers in Advance?
Yes! You can wrap the bacon around the cheese and refrigerate them a few hours or overnight before baking. Just allow them to come to room temperature before popping them in the oven.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through.
What’s the Best Way to Serve These Poppers?
These poppers are best enjoyed warm, right out of the oven, with the sweet maple glaze drizzled on top. Pair them with a side of dipping sauce, like ranch or a spicy aioli, for an extra kick!
