Cream Cheese Bacon Crackers are a tasty snack you’ll love! They combine creamy, fluffy cream cheese and crispy bacon on crunchy crackers, making every bite a little party in your mouth!
Honestly, who can resist bacon? 🤷♀️ I always have to make extra because they disappear quickly at gatherings. They’re super easy to whip up, making them perfect for any occasion!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Saltine Crackers: These crackers are perfect for this recipe due to their crunchiness. If you’re looking for alternatives, you could use rice crackers, Melba toast, or even baguette slices for a twist.
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese provides the creamy base. If you want a lighter option, consider using Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese if you’re lactose intolerant.
Bacon: I always use thick-cut bacon for a nice meaty bite, but turkey bacon or even prosciutto can be good substitutes for a different flavor or a healthier option.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: The sharpness of the cheddar adds a great flavor profile. If you want a milder taste, substitute with mild cheddar or Swiss cheese.
Garlic Powder: This is optional but adds a nice zing. Fresh minced garlic can be used instead for a bolder flavor if you prefer!
How Do I Ensure the Bacon Gets Crispy?
Crispy bacon is key for great texture. Here are some tips to achieve that perfect crunch:
- Use a wire rack on the baking sheet. This allows the heat to circulate, making bacon crispier.
- Preheat your oven properly before baking. A hot oven helps the bacon cook evenly.
- Slice the bacon beforehand; it cooks faster and gives each cracker a good amount of flavor.
Keep an eye on them as they bake. Every oven is different, and you want them perfect without burning!
How to Make Cream Cheese Bacon Crackers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 sleeve of saltine crackers
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- 12 slices of bacon
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon dried parsley or chives, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes to bake, making a total of about 25 minutes from start to finish. You can get these tasty snacks ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is important for getting your bacon nice and crispy! You can line a baking sheet with parchment paper or place a wire rack over a baking sheet. Using a wire rack helps the heat circulate better, making the crackers crispier.
2. Prepare the Crackers:
Next, lay out your saltine crackers in a single layer on the baking sheet or wire rack. This ensures they bake evenly.
3. Cream Cheese Layer:
Now, take the softened cream cheese and spread about 1 teaspoon on each cracker. It’s okay if they’re not perfect; just try to cover as much of the cracker as you can!
4. Add Garlic Powder (Optional):
If you love garlic, sprinkle a small pinch of garlic powder over the cream cheese layer. It adds a delicious flavor that pairs well with the bacon.
5. Cheese Sprinkle:
Now, sprinkle shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the crackers on top of the cream cheese. The more cheese, the better!
6. Bacon Time:
Take your bacon slices and cut them in half. Place one half slice neatly over each cracker, pressing down a bit to make sure it’ll stick during baking.
7. Bake:
Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them! You’re looking for the bacon to be crispy and the cheese to bubble.
8. Cool Down:
Once done, carefully remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly on the rack or baking sheet. They’ll be very hot!
9. Garnish:
If you like a little touch of color, sprinkle some dried parsley or chives on top for garnish.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
These crackers are best enjoyed warm or at room temperature. Serve them up as a yummy snack or appetizer—everyone will love them!
Enjoy your crunchy, creamy, savory Cream Cheese Bacon Crackers!
Can I Use Low-Fat Cream Cheese for This Recipe?
Yes, low-fat cream cheese can be used as a healthier alternative. Just keep in mind that it might not be as creamy or rich as regular cream cheese, but it will still taste great!
What Can I Substitute for Bacon?
If you want a meat-free option, you can use turkey bacon or even crispy prosciutto for a different flavor. For a vegetarian version, consider using cooked mushrooms or roasted chickpeas for a savory crunch.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can place them back in the oven for a few minutes to crisp up the bacon again.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the crackers up to the baking step, cover them, and store them in the refrigerator for a few hours. Just bake them right before serving for best results!
