Bacon Crackers are an irresistible sweet and savory snack made by wrapping buttery crackers in bacon and topping them with a sprinkle of brown sugar. Baked until crispy and caramelized, these bites are perfect for parties, holidays, game days, or anytime you need a quick and addictive appetizer.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Uses just a few pantry staples
- Easy to prepare with minimal prep
- Sweet, salty, crispy, and rich in every bite
- Ideal for entertaining or snacking
- Can be made ahead of time and reheated
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Buttery crackers (like Club or Ritz)
- Thin-cut bacon (cut into thirds)
- Brown sugar
- Optional: cracked black pepper or a pinch of cayenne for a spicy kick
- Optional: shredded Parmesan cheese or everything bagel seasoning for added flavor
Directions
- Preheat oven
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top. - Assemble crackers
Place crackers in a single layer on the wire rack. Top each cracker with a piece of bacon, wrapping it around or laying it flat over the top. - Add topping
Sprinkle about 1 teaspoon of brown sugar over each bacon-wrapped cracker. Add optional seasonings if using. - Bake
Bake for 30–40 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the sugar has melted and caramelized. - Cool and serve
Let the crackers cool for 5–10 minutes before serving. They’ll crisp up more as they sit.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: About 30–36 crackers
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Variations
- Spicy bacon crackers: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne to the brown sugar.
- Cheesy bacon crackers: Sprinkle with Parmesan or sharp cheddar before baking.
- Maple twist: Drizzle a little maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a rich, smoky-sweet flavor.
- Everything bagel topping: Add everything bagel seasoning for a crunchy, flavorful finish.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a 300°F oven or toaster oven for 5–7 minutes until warmed and crisp. Avoid microwaving, which can make them soggy.
FAQs
Can I use thick-cut bacon?
It’s best to use thin-cut bacon, which crisps up better and cooks more evenly over the cracker.
Do I have to use a wire rack?
Using a rack helps keep the crackers crispy and lets the fat drain off. If you don’t have one, line your baking sheet with foil and flip halfway through baking.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can fully cook them, let them cool, and then store them. Reheat before serving for the best texture.
Are these best warm or at room temperature?
They’re delicious both ways, but slightly warm gives the best crispy texture.
Can I use other crackers?
Yes, any sturdy, buttery cracker like Town House or saltines will work.
Can I skip the brown sugar?
You can, but the sweet-and-salty combo is what makes them so addictive.
How do I keep the bacon from falling off?
Press it gently into the cracker or wrap it tightly. The sugar will help “glue” everything together as it bakes.
Can I make these in the air fryer?
Yes, cook at 350°F for about 8–10 minutes, but be sure to check often to avoid burning.
Are they gluten-free?
Only if you use gluten-free crackers and check that your bacon is certified gluten-free.
Can I freeze them?
They’re best fresh, but you can freeze and reheat them in the oven if needed. Wrap well to avoid freezer burn.
Conclusion
Bacon Crackers are the perfect snackable treat that combines everything you love: salty bacon, crispy crackers, and a sweet caramelized finish. They come together in minutes and disappear just as fast. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving something indulgent, these easy bites are guaranteed to impress.
Print
Bacon Crackers
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: About 30 crackers
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These bacon crackers are the ultimate sweet and savory snack. Buttery crackers are wrapped with smoky bacon and topped with a sprinkle of brown sugar for a caramelized finish. Baked until crisp and golden, they’re impossible to stop eating. Great for parties or anytime you need a simple but tasty bite!
Ingredients
-
1 sleeve buttery rectangular crackers (like Club crackers)
-
1 lb thin-cut bacon, cut in halves or thirds
-
1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
-
Optional: a pinch of cayenne pepper or black pepper for heat
Instructions
-
Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top.
-
Lay out the crackers on a clean surface. Wrap each cracker with a piece of bacon, just enough to go around once.
-
Place the wrapped crackers seam side down on the wire rack.
-
Sprinkle a pinch of brown sugar on top of each bacon-wrapped cracker. Add a touch of cayenne or black pepper if you like a little heat.
-
Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until the bacon is cooked and crispy.
-
Let cool slightly before serving. They’ll crisp up more as they cool.
Notes
-
Thin bacon works best so it crisps up nicely.
-
You can prep these ahead and store in an airtight container once cooled.
-
Add a drizzle of maple syrup or honey for extra sweetness.