Print

Maple Bacon Goat Cheese Crostini with Balsamic Glaze

Two slices of maple bacon goat cheese crostini topped with crumbled bacon, goat cheese, and a balsamic glaze.
Print Recipe
Save Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Create this easy appetizer featuring the perfect sweet and savory balance of maple-glazed bacon, creamy goat cheese, and toasted baguette, finished with a tangy balsamic drizzle. This crowd pleaser is ideal for parties and entertaining.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick pieces
  • 4 slices thick-cut bacon
  • 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon brown sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 4 ounces soft goat cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze (or balsamic vinegar reduced slightly)
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a small bowl, mix the maple syrup, brown sugar, and cayenne pepper, if using.
  3. Lay the bacon strips on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the maple mixture evenly over both sides of the bacon.
  4. Bake the bacon for 15 to 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until it is crispy and caramelized. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly, then chop the bacon into small pieces. Reserve any extra maple glaze.
  5. While the bacon bakes, arrange the baguette slices on a separate baking sheet. Brush both sides lightly with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
  6. Toast the bread in the oven for 5 to 8 minutes, flipping once, until golden brown and crisp. Watch closely to prevent burning.
  7. Let the crostini cool for a few minutes.
  8. Spread a layer of softened goat cheese evenly over each toasted crostini slice.
  9. Top the goat cheese with the chopped maple bacon pieces.
  10. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the assembled crostini.
  11. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves before serving immediately.

Notes

  • For the creamiest spread, let your goat cheese sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before assembling.
  • If you do not have balsamic glaze, simmer 1/4 cup of balsamic vinegar in a small saucepan over medium-low heat until it reduces by half and coats the back of a spoon.
  • You can prepare the bacon ahead of time and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one day.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookingzenith.com/maple-bacon-goat-cheese-crostini-recipe/