Description
Savory Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Crackers with Smoky Cheese Spread are a delicious appetizer featuring buttery crackers sandwiched with a creamy, smoky cheese mixture, then wrapped in crispy baked bacon. This easy-to-make snack packs bold flavors and a perfect balance of textures, making it ideal for parties, gatherings, or anytime you crave a savory treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 12 slices of bacon
- 1 box of buttery round crackers (such as Ritz)
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a kick)
- Fresh chives or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil to ensure easy cleanup after baking.
- Prepare the cheese spread. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper if using. Mix thoroughly until the spread is smooth and all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Assemble the cracker sandwiches. Spread a generous teaspoon of the smoky cheese mixture on each cracker. Top with another cracker to form a sandwich.
- Wrap with bacon. Cut each slice of bacon into thirds. Wrap a piece of bacon around each cracker sandwich securely, using a toothpick to hold it if necessary.
- Arrange for baking. Place the bacon-wrapped cracker sandwiches on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced evenly for uniform cooking.
- Bake until crispy. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, flipping the crackers halfway through to ensure the bacon crisps evenly on all sides and turns golden brown.
- Cool the snacks. Remove from the oven and allow the bacon-wrapped crackers to cool for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors meld and bacon crisp further.
- Garnish and serve. Sprinkle freshly chopped chives or green onions on top for added flavor and a pop of color before serving.
Notes
- For best results, start with room temperature cream cheese to make mixing easier and smoother.
- If cayenne pepper is omitted, the recipe will still be flavorful but milder – adjust spice level to taste.
- Make sure to flip the crackers halfway through baking to promote even crispiness of the bacon wrapping.
- The crackers can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake.
- Use toothpicks to secure the bacon for easier handling and to prevent unraveling in the oven.
