This Million Dollar Bacon Crostini is a treat that combines crispy bacon with sweet and spicy flavors, all piled on crunchy bread slices. It’s as fancy as it sounds!
You’ll want to make extra because it’s hard to stop at just one! I love serving these at brunch or any gathering—they always impress everyone with their taste!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baguette: A French baguette gives that perfect crunch. If you can’t find one, ciabatta or any crusty bread will work nicely too. Just make sure to slice it evenly for toasting!
Bacon: Thick-cut bacon adds great flavor and texture. If you prefer a lighter option, turkey bacon can be used, though the texture will differ slightly.
Cream Cheese: This gives creaminess to the topping. If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, consider using Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese.
Honey: Adds sweetness to balance salty bacon. Maple syrup can be a good substitute if you want a different flavor profile.
Chives: They provide a mild onion flavor. Green onions can be a great substitute if you’re out of chives!
How Do I Toast Baguette Slices Perfectly?
Toasting baguette slices is key for a perfect crostini. You want them crispy enough to hold the toppings without getting soggy. Here are some tips:
- Ensure your oven is preheated to 375°F (190°C) before placing the bread inside.
- Arrange slices in a single layer to allow even toasting.
- Toast for around 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning.
- Keep an eye on them to avoid burning; every oven is different!
Let them cool a bit after toasting. They will crisp up even more as they cool!
How to Make Million Dollar Bacon Crostini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crostini:
- 1 French baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
For the Bacon:
- 8 slices of thick-cut bacon
For the Cream Cheese Mixture:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh chives
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Garnish:
- Powdered sugar
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 25 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes on prep, and cooking the bacon and assembling the crostini will take around 15 minutes. Whether for a special brunch or just a snack, this dish comes together quickly!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating up, slice your French baguette into 1/2-inch rounds. This thickness will give you the perfect amount of crunch!
2. Toast the Baguette:
Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet, making sure not to overlap them. Place in the oven and toast for about 8-10 minutes until golden and crispy. Once done, remove and let them cool slightly.
3. Cook the Bacon:
Now, heat a skillet over medium heat and add your bacon. Cook until crispy, which should take about 6-8 minutes per side. Once crispy, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess fat. After cooling, cut or break the bacon into pieces that will fit on your crostini.
4. Mix the Cream Cheese Topping:
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, shredded Parmesan, chopped chives, honey, Dijon mustard, and black pepper. Mix everything together until you have a smooth and creamy mixture. This will be the delicious topping on your crostini!
5. Assemble the Crostini:
Spread a generous amount of the cream cheese mixture onto each toasted baguette slice. Make sure it’s nice and thick for great flavor!
6. Top with Bacon:
Finish off by placing pieces of crispy bacon on top of each crostini. This adds the savory crispiness that everyone will love.
7. Optional Garnish:
If you want to make these extra fancy, lightly dust the tops with powdered sugar for a sweet contrast. You can also sprinkle more chopped chives for a pop of color!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Million Dollar Bacon Crostini immediately as a delightful appetizer or snack. Enjoy every bite with the wonderful blend of sweet, savory, and creamy flavors!
Can I Use Pre-Cooked Bacon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked bacon to save time! Just chop it into smaller pieces and add it directly on top of the cream cheese mixture. However, cooking the bacon yourself will give you that perfect crispy texture and flavor.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
If you’d like to make a vegetarian version, you can omit the bacon and top the crostini with roasted vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or even a layer of pesto for a delightful twist. For added texture, consider using crispy chickpeas!
Can I Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cream cheese mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. Just give it a good stir before spreading it on the baguette slices!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Crostini?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftover assembled crostini in the fridge for up to a day. To keep them from getting soggy, separate the toasted baguette slices from the cream cheese topping and bacon. Just reassemble before serving!
