If you love sweet, salty, crunchy, and smoky flavors, Candied Bacon Crackers are the perfect appetizer or snack. These buttery crackers are topped with crisp bacon, caramelized brown sugar, and a touch of spice, making them irresistibly delicious.

If you’re a fan of the sweet-savory combo, you’ll love Crack Maple Bacon, another addicting bacon treat that pairs perfectly with breakfast or appetizers.

Want to use more crackers in creative ways? Try Ritz Cracker Appetizers for easy party bites that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Sweet, salty, crispy, and smoky in every bite
✔ Uses simple ingredients you likely already have
✔ Perfect for entertaining—holidays, game days, and parties
✔ Easy to customize with different flavors

Ingredients for Candied Bacon Crackers

Main Ingredients

1 sleeve buttery crackers (Ritz or Club)
12 slices bacon, cut into thirds
½ cup brown sugar (light or dark)
¼ tsp black pepper
¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for spice)
½ tsp smoked paprika (adds depth)

Optional Additions

Grated Parmesan for a cheesy kick
Maple syrup for extra caramelization
Crushed pecans for a nutty crunch

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat & Prepare

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or use a wire rack for even crisping.

2. Assemble the Crackers

Lay crackers in a single layer on the baking sheet.
Place a piece of bacon on top of each cracker.

3. Add the Sweet & Savory Topping

In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, black pepper, cayenne, and smoked paprika.
Sprinkle the mixture evenly over each bacon-covered cracker.

4. Bake to Perfection

Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and caramelized.
If using a wire rack, place a baking sheet underneath to catch drips.

5. Cool & Serve

Let the crackers cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Enjoy warm or at room temperature!

How to Serve Candied Bacon Crackers

Pair with cheese & fruit – Serve alongside Brie or grapes.
Crush over salads – Adds crunch to leafy greens.
Dip in honey mustard – A tangy contrast to the sweetness.
Use as a burger topping – Adds a caramelized crunch!

For a full Southern-style meal, pair these crackers with Country Ranch Green Beans & Potatoes with Bacon.

Pro Tips for the Best Candied Bacon Crackers

✅ Use thick-cut bacon for a meaty bite.
✅ Don’t skip the parchment paper—makes cleanup easier.
✅ Experiment with seasonings like garlic powder or hot sauce.
✅ Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days—reheat in the oven for the best texture.

Storage & Reheating Tips

Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Reheat in the oven at 300°F for 5 minutes to refresh crispiness.
Avoid microwaving, as it makes the crackers soggy.

FAQs

1. Can I use turkey bacon?

Yes! It will be leaner, so cook time may be shorter (15-18 minutes).

2. Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare and store in an airtight container; reheat at 300°F for 5 minutes before serving.

3. What’s the best cracker to use?

Ritz, Club, or Saltines work great, but pretzel crisps add extra crunch.

4. Can I make these in an air fryer?

Yes! Air fry at 350°F for 8-10 minutes, checking frequently to prevent burning.

Final Thoughts

Candied Bacon Crackers are the perfect mix of crunchy, sweet, salty, and smoky—an easy, crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s great for any occasion. Whether you serve them at a holiday party, game night, or as a snack, they’ll disappear fast!

Want another bacon-based treat? Try Crack Maple Bacon for a different spin on sweet, caramelized bacon goodness!

Enjoy your sweet and salty snack! 🥓✨

Candied Bacon Crackers: The Ultimate Sweet & Savory Snack

Author: kynall

Print Recipe

Description

If you’re looking for a simple snack that’s positively irresistible, look no further than these Candied Bacon Crackers. They combine the crunch of a butter cracker with the smoky sweetness of candied bacon and you only need three ingredients to make them. (Five, if you count a pinch of cayenne and a pinch of black pepper as ingredients!) I love them as an alternative to crackers and dip, but they’re also a great way to round out a snack spread for your next party.

Ingredients

Scale

1 package rectangular butter crackers
8–10 slices bacon
¾ cup brown sugar
A pinch of cayenne pepper
A pinch of freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare the Baking Sheet:
- Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
- Place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet.
Assemble the Crackers:
- Arrange the butter crackers on the wire rack, leaving space between each.
- Slice bacon into thirds or fourths, depending on the cracker size.
- Place one piece of bacon lengthwise on each cracker.
Season & Bake:
- Sprinkle about 1 heaping teaspoon of brown sugar on top of each bacon slice.
- Lightly dust with cayenne pepper and black pepper for extra flavor.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until the brown sugar melts and the bacon turns crispy.
Cool & Serve:
- Allow the crackers to cool completely so the sugar hardens.
- Serve and enjoy this sweet, salty, and crispy snack!

These Candied Bacon Crackers are perfect for parties, snack spreads, or as a fun alternative to regular crackers and dip. Enjoy! 🥓🧂🔥