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Irresistible Million Dollar Bacon Goat Cheese Log

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A creamy goat cheese log rolled in sweet and spicy candied bacon, perfect for parties and gatherings. This easy appetizer takes just 15 minutes of active work and delivers an unforgettable combination of salty, sweet, creamy, and crunchy textures.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 slices thick-cut bacon (preferably Wright Brand or Nueske’s)
  • 1/4 cup packed brown sugar (dark or light)
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional but recommended)
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground)
  • 2 (10-11 ounce) logs goat cheese (soft, fresh; like Vermont Creamery or Laura Chenel)
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup)
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • Crackers for serving (water crackers, Ritz, or seeded crackers)
  • Fresh apple slices for serving (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
  • Pear slices for serving
  • Optional: fresh figs or dried apricots for serving

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. If you have a wire rack, place it on the baking sheet.
  2. Make the candied bacon coating: In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, cayenne pepper, and black pepper. Lay the bacon slices on the prepared baking sheet (or on the wire rack). Sprinkle the brown sugar mixture evenly over the bacon slices, pressing it gently so it sticks.
  3. Bake the bacon for 18-22 minutes, keeping an eye on it after 15 minutes. The bacon should be dark and caramelized but not burnt. Let it cool completely on the baking sheet (about 20-30 minutes).
  4. While the bacon cools, make the cheese base: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened goat cheese, cream cheese, honey, garlic powder, dried thyme, and salt. Mix with a rubber spatula until well combined and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  5. Shape the cheese log: Lay out a large piece of plastic wrap on your counter. Spoon the cheese mixture onto the center of the plastic wrap. Use the wrap to help shape it into a log about 8-10 inches long. Twist the ends of the plastic wrap to seal it, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  6. Chop the candied bacon: Once the bacon is completely cool, transfer it to a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to chop it into fine pieces. You can also pulse it in a food processor, but be careful not to turn it into a powder.
  7. Roll the cheese log in the bacon: Spread the chopped candied bacon on a plate or piece of parchment paper. Unwrap the chilled cheese log and roll it gently in the bacon, pressing lightly so the bits adhere. Use your hands to pat on any extra bacon.
  8. Chill again before serving: Wrap the finished log back in plastic wrap (or place it on a serving board) and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. The log can be made up to 3 days in advance.
  9. When ready to serve, let the log sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to soften slightly before serving.

Notes

Don’t rush the bacon cooling—it must be completely cool before chopping to avoid a sticky mess. Use room temperature cream cheese for smooth mixing. Watch the bacon closely in the oven as it can burn quickly. Make extra candied bacon for snacking or salads. The cheese log can be made up to 3 days ahead and actually tastes better the next day.

Nutrition

Keywords: goat cheese log, candied bacon, appetizer, party food, easy appetizer, bacon wrapped cheese, holiday appetizer

Find it online: https://chloeplate.com/irresistible-million-dollar-bacon-goat-cheese-log-easy-appetizer/