Crispy Bacon Mozzarella Poppers with Maple Glaze Recipe

Introduction

Crispy Bacon Mozzarella Poppers are a deliciously addictive appetizer that combines smoky bacon with gooey melted mozzarella. Perfect for parties or a savory snack, these poppers are easy to prepare and sure to impress your guests.

Ingredients

• 8 oz thick-cut bacon
• 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Step 2: Wrap each mozzarella ball tightly with a slice of bacon, securing it with a toothpick if necessary.
3. Step 3: Roll the bacon-wrapped mozzarella in panko breadcrumbs until fully coated.
4. Step 4: Place the coated poppers on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and golden brown.
5. Step 5: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter, then mix in the maple syrup and garlic powder. Simmer for about two minutes.
6. Step 6: Drizzle the glaze over the baked poppers before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use toothpicks to secure the bacon tightly around the mozzarella to prevent unwrapping during baking.
• For extra flavor, sprinkle some chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into the breadcrumb coating.
• Substitute the maple syrup glaze with a spicy sriracha honey glaze for a kick.
• Make sure the mozzarella balls are well chilled before wrapping to help them hold their shape while cooking.

Storage

Store leftover poppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make the bacon soggy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use shredded mozzarella instead of mozzarella balls?

Using shredded mozzarella is not recommended as it will melt too quickly and won’t hold the popper shape. Fresh mozzarella balls work best for this recipe.

What if I don’t have panko breadcrumbs?

You can use regular breadcrumbs or crush some crackers as a substitute, though panko provides the best crispy texture.

Crispy Bacon Mozzarella Poppers with Maple Glaze Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 131 reviews

These Crispy Bacon Mozzarella Poppers are a delicious and indulgent appetizer featuring fresh mozzarella balls wrapped in thick-cut bacon, coated with crunchy panko breadcrumbs, baked to golden perfection, and finished with a sweet and savory maple garlic glaze. Perfect for parties or a savory snack.

• Author: Naya
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 16 poppers 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

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Bacon and Cheese

• 8 oz thick-cut bacon
• 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls

Coating

• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

Glaze

• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prepare for baking the poppers.
2. Wrap Mozzarella: Wrap each fresh mozzarella ball tightly with a slice of thick-cut bacon, securing it with a toothpick if needed to keep it in place during cooking.
3. Coat with Breadcrumbs: Roll each bacon-wrapped mozzarella ball in the panko breadcrumbs, ensuring it is fully coated for a crispy texture.
4. Bake Poppers: Arrange the coated poppers on the lined baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the bacon is crisp and golden brown.
5. Prepare Glaze: While baking, melt the unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat, then add the maple syrup and garlic powder, simmering for about two minutes to combine flavors.
6. Glaze and Serve: Remove the poppers from the oven and drizzle the warm maple garlic glaze over them just before serving for a perfect balance of sweet and savory.

Notes

• Using thick-cut bacon prevents it from burning quickly and ensures a chewy, crispy texture.
• Securing the bacon with toothpicks helps keep the bacon wrapped during baking.
• You can substitute panko breadcrumbs with regular breadcrumbs, but panko provides better crunch.
• The glaze can be adjusted by adding more or less maple syrup depending on your sweetness preference.
• Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Keywords: bacon mozzarella poppers, bacon appetizer, mozzarella appetizers, crispy bacon snacks, party appetizers, baked bacon poppers