The quest for the perfect holiday appetizer ends here! If you’re searching for a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s both incredibly easy to make and utterly delicious, look no further than Pioneer Woman Bacon Crackers. Inspired by a delightful episode of The Pioneer Woman, this simple three-ingredient recipe has become a staple for gatherings, and for good reason.
What makes these bacon crackers so irresistible? It’s the magic of crispy bacon wrapped around a cheesy, crunchy cracker, baked to golden perfection. The combination of savory, salty, and subtly sweet flavors creates an addictive snack that disappears in minutes. Whether you’re hosting a New Year’s Eve bash, a game day get-together, or simply want a fun appetizer night, these Pioneer Woman bacon crackers are destined to be a hit.
The Pioneer Woman Holiday Bacon Appetizers
Simple Ingredients, Maximum Flavor
The beauty of this Pioneer Woman bacon crackers recipe lies in its simplicity. You only need three main ingredients, likely already in your pantry and refrigerator:
- Club Crackers: These buttery, slightly salty crackers provide the perfect base. Their sturdy texture holds up well during baking.
- Thin Sliced Bacon: Bacon is the star of the show, delivering smoky, savory goodness. Thin slices crisp up beautifully and wrap easily around the crackers.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan adds a salty, nutty, and umami-rich layer that complements the bacon perfectly.
For those who prefer a touch of sweetness, brown sugar can be used as a delightful alternative to Parmesan cheese. Both variations are equally delicious and cater to different taste preferences.
Making Pioneer Woman Bacon Crackers: Step-by-Step
Creating these addictive appetizers is surprisingly straightforward. Here’s how to bring the Pioneer Woman bacon crackers to life in your own kitchen:
- Prep the Crackers: Arrange your desired amount of Club crackers face up on a baking sheet.
- Add Cheese (or Brown Sugar): Spoon approximately 1 teaspoon of grated Parmesan cheese onto each cracker, ensuring even coverage. Alternatively, lightly sprinkle brown sugar over each cracker.
- Wrap with Bacon: Cut bacon slices in half. Carefully wrap each cheese or sugar-covered cracker with a half slice of bacon, ensuring the cracker is completely enveloped. Gently secure the bacon to prevent cheese or sugar from falling off.
- Bake to Crispy Perfection: Place the bacon-wrapped crackers on a baking sheet fitted with a rack. This allows for better air circulation and crispier bacon. Bake in a preheated oven at 250 degrees Fahrenheit (120 degrees Celsius) for approximately 2 hours. The low and slow baking process renders the bacon perfectly crispy without burning the crackers.
The Pioneer Woman Holiday Bacon Appetizers
Tips for Perfect Pioneer Woman Bacon Crackers
- Make Ahead and Freeze: One of the best features of these bacon crackers is that they can be prepared in advance and frozen. Assemble the crackers, freeze them on a baking sheet, and then transfer them to an airtight container. Bake from frozen, adding a little extra baking time.
- Gluten-Free Option: For guests with dietary restrictions, gluten-free crackers can be substituted for Club crackers without compromising the taste or texture.
- Serving Suggestions: Pioneer Woman bacon crackers are fantastic on their own, but you can also serve them with a variety of dips, such as ranch dressing, honey mustard, or a spicy aioli.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: These bacon crackers are incredibly versatile. They’re ideal for holiday gatherings, game day parties, casual get-togethers, or even as a satisfying snack.
Pioneer Woman Bacon Crackers Recipe
Print Recipe
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 package Club Crackers
- 1 pound Thin Sliced Bacon (or more, depending on cracker quantity)
- Grated Parmesan Cheese
- Optional Alternative: Brown Sugar
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C).
- Lay crackers face up on a baking sheet.
- Top each cracker with approximately 1 teaspoon of grated Parmesan cheese or a sprinkle of brown sugar.
- Cut bacon slices in half and wrap each cracker completely with a bacon half-slice.
- Place bacon-wrapped crackers on a baking sheet with a rack.
- Bake for 2 hours, or until bacon is crispy and golden brown.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Servings: Approximately 36 crackers
More Appetizer Inspiration
Looking for more delicious and easy appetizer ideas? Explore these other fantastic recipes:
- Holiday Appetizers That Are Perfect For Your Party
- The Pioneer Woman Homemade Bacon Appetizers
- Funeral Rolls
- Hanky Panky Appetizer
- Texas Trash Dip
- 3 Ingredient Slow Cooker Cocktail Wieners
- Skyline Dip
Pioneer Woman bacon crackers are more than just an appetizer; they are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will become a requested favorite at every gathering. Easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and perfect for any occasion – what’s not to love? Give this recipe a try and experience the bacon cracker magic for yourself!
