Cream Cheese Bacon Crackers are a tasty snack that everyone loves! With crispy crackers topped with creamy cheese and savory bacon, they’re perfect for any gathering.
These little bites are super easy to make, and honestly, who can resist that crunchy, cheesy goodness? I always make extra because they disappear so fast! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ritz Crackers: These buttery crackers are perfect for this recipe, but you can swap them out for other crackers like Town House or Swanson. Even homemade crackers work if you’re feeling adventurous!
Cream Cheese: Use full-fat cream cheese for the best creamy texture. If you’re looking for a healthier option, low-fat cream cheese or even a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream is a good choice.
Bacon: I recommend thick-cut bacon for extra crunch. If you prefer, turkey bacon or a vegetarian bacon alternative can work just as well, but cooking times may vary.
Optional Seasonings: Adding garlic powder or onion powder to the cream cheese enhances flavor. Feel free to get creative—try adding some smoked paprika or hot sauce for a kick!
How Do I Get My Bacon Extra Crispy?
Getting perfectly crispy bacon is all about the right temperature and time. Here’s my go-to method:
- Preheat your oven well to ensure even cooking.
- Arrange the bacon in a single layer on the baking sheet, with some space between slices for better air circulation.
- Flip the bacon halfway through cooking. This helps achieve an evenly crispy texture.
- Keep an eye on it near the end of cooking to avoid burning—oven times can vary!
Enjoy creating these delicious Cream Cheese Bacon Crackers—they’re sure to impress!
How to Make Cream Cheese Bacon Crackers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 box Ritz crackers (or similar buttery crackers)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 8 slices bacon
- Optional: 1 tsp garlic powder or onion powder (for mixing into cream cheese)
- Optional: Fresh chives or parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious snack takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20 minutes to cook the bacon. In total, you’re looking at approximately 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and easy option for any gathering.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your bacon cooks evenly and gets nice and crispy!
2. Cook the Bacon:
Arrange the bacon slices on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper. Make sure they don’t overlap for the best results. Bake them in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until crispy to your liking. When done, remove the bacon and place it on paper towels to drain any extra fat. Let it cool off a little.
3. Prep the Bacon:
Now that your bacon is cool, cut each slice in half so they’ll sit nicely on the crackers.
4. Mix the Cream Cheese:
If you want to add extra flavor, take the softened cream cheese and mix in garlic powder or onion powder in a bowl. This step is totally optional, but it gives a lovely flavor boost!
5. Assemble the Crackers:
Spread a generous layer of cream cheese on each cracker. Don’t be shy—make it creamy!
6. Add the Bacon:
Now, take half a bacon slice and place it right on top of the cream cheese. This bacon is the star of the show!
7. Garnish (Optional):
If you like, sprinkle some chopped chives or parsley on top for a touch of color and flavor. It’s a nice finishing touch!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Arrange your beautiful crackers on a serving platter. You can serve them right away or chill briefly in the fridge to let those flavors meld together. Either way, they are sure to be a hit!
Enjoy these savory, creamy, crunchy delights at your next gathering—they’ll be gone before you know it!
Can I Use Low-Fat Cream Cheese?
Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese if you’re looking for a lighter option! Just keep in mind that the texture may be slightly different, but it will still taste great.
How Can I Make These Crackers Spicy?
If you’re a fan of spice, try adding some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the cream cheese mixture. Alternatively, sprinkle a bit of cayenne pepper or chili powder over the bacon before placing it on the crackers.
Can I Prepare These Crackers Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cream cheese mixture and bake the bacon in advance. Just assemble the crackers shortly before your event to keep them fresh and crispy.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, be aware that the crackers may become a bit soft. To revive them, you can briefly pop them in a preheated oven to crisp up again!
