Description
Million Dollar Bacon Goat Cheese is an irresistible appetizer featuring creamy whipped goat cheese topped with crispy candied bacon, sweet honey, and a touch of heat from crushed red pepper — an elegant yet easy dish that tastes like pure luxury.
Ingredients
-
- 8 oz (225g) goat cheese, softened
- 2 oz (60g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Million Dollar Bacon:
-
- 6 slices thick-cut bacon
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Garnish:
- 1 tablespoon honey (for drizzling)
- Fresh thyme or rosemary leaves
- Toasted baguette slices or crackers, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Lay bacon strips flat on the baking sheet. In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, maple syrup, crushed red pepper, and black pepper. Brush or sprinkle mixture evenly over the bacon.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, turning once halfway through, until the bacon is caramelized and crisp. Transfer to a wire rack to cool, then chop into small pieces.
- In a food processor, blend goat cheese, cream cheese, honey, olive oil, salt, and pepper until light and creamy (about 30 seconds).
- Spread the whipped goat cheese into a shallow serving bowl or plate.
- Top with the chopped candied bacon, drizzle with honey, and sprinkle with fresh thyme or rosemary.
- Serve immediately with toasted baguette slices, crostini, or crackers.
Notes
- For a smoky touch, add a pinch of smoked paprika to the bacon mixture.
- This can be made ahead — prepare the goat cheese base and candied bacon separately, then assemble before serving.
- Pairs beautifully with sparkling wine or a crisp white wine.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking & Blending
- Cuisine: American