Million Dollar Bacon Goat Cheese Appetizer Log Recipe

If you’ve ever been on the hunt for that show-stopping appetizer that’s both decadent and downright addictive, the Million Dollar Bacon Goat Cheese Appetizer Log Recipe is calling your name. I first made this for a weekend get-together, and it was gone faster than I could say “pass the crackers.” The combination of sweet, spicy, and savory bacon wrapped around creamy goat cheese feels fancy but is surprisingly easy to make—all the best things in one bite!

This appetizer log is perfect for any occasion where you want to impress without stress. Whether it’s a holiday party, game day, or casual brunch, the Million Dollar Bacon Goat Cheese Appetizer Log Recipe delivers layers of flavor and a texture contrast that’s just irresistible. Plus, it pairs beautifully with crunchy crostini or fresh fruit, making it super versatile for your hosting needs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a special role in balancing flavors and textures. The thick-cut bacon caramelizes beautifully while the goat cheese adds a tangy creaminess. Here’s what you’ll want to shop for to nail this tasty appetizer.

• Bacon: Thick-cut is key here because it crisps up nicely without burning, leading to that perfect crunchy, caramelized coating.
• Brown sugar: It adds sweetness that contrasts perfectly with the salty bacon and sharp goat cheese.
• Water: Just a splash helps dissolve the sugar for an even coating.
• Black pepper: Freshly ground if you can for that subtle kick and depth.
• Cayenne pepper: Adds a hint of heat that wakes up your taste buds without overpowering the dish.
• Red pepper flakes (optional): Throw these in if you like your appetizer with a little extra spice punch.
• Baguette: For making crostini to scoop up all the goodness—choose a crusty one to provide a solid base.
• Olive oil: To drizzle on the baguette slices before toasting for extra flavor and crispness.
• Salt and pepper: Simple seasoning for the crostini that rounds out the flavors.
• Goat cheese log: I usually go for 8 ounces for a crowd, but 4 ounces is great for a smaller group.
• Maple syrup, honey, or hot honey: This is my favorite finishing drizzle—it brings a lovely touch of sweetness with a hint of floral or spice flavors.

Variations

I love making this Million Dollar Bacon Goat Cheese Appetizer Log Recipe my own by swapping up the toppings or mix-ins. Feel free to get creative—you’ll find a variation that suits your taste buds perfectly.

• Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle toasted pecans or walnuts on top for a wonderful crunch. I tried this for a family brunch and everyone loved the extra texture!
• Herb Twist: Mixing fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the goat cheese adds an earthy aroma that elevates the appetizer.
• Spicy Kick: Swap red pepper flakes for finely diced jalapeño if you want more heat. It’s my go-to when I’m hosting friends who like a little fire in their food.
• Vegetarian version: Use crispy tempeh bacon or coconut bacon alternatives and skip the meat. Still delicious and perfect for plant-based guests.
• Seasonal Fruits: Add fresh figs or pomegranate seeds as garnish to play with sweet and tart elements.

How to Make Million Dollar Bacon Goat Cheese Appetizer Log Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Million Dollar Bacon

Start by mixing your brown sugar, water, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and red pepper flakes in a shallow dish. Lay the thick-cut bacon strips out and brush or sprinkle the sugar mixture over the bacon evenly on both sides. This step is crucial because that sweet-spicy coating transforms your bacon into “million dollar” bacon magic when cooked.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon to Perfect Crispiness

Lay the bacon strips on a foil-lined baking sheet or a wire rack over a sheet to catch drippings. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway, until the bacon is crispy and caramelized but not burnt. Keep an eye on it towards the end because it can quickly go from perfect to overdone. Remove and let cool on paper towels—this makes it easier to handle when wrapping the goat cheese later.

Step 3: Prep the Crostini

Slice your baguette into thin rounds, drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper. Toast them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes or until golden and crisp. I like to check halfway to flip them for even toasting. These crostini will be the perfect vessel for your luscious goat cheese log.

Step 4: Assemble the Goat Cheese Log

Place your goat cheese log on a serving board. Now, here’s the fun part: wrap strips of the cooled million dollar bacon around the goat cheese log, overlapping slightly to cover it fully or partially for a rustic look. Drizzle with maple syrup, honey, or hot honey over the top right before serving to add that extra layer of flavor and a glossy finish. The sweet and spicy bacon with tangy cheese and honey drizzle is seriously addictive.

How to Serve Million Dollar Bacon Goat Cheese Appetizer Log Recipe

Garnishes

I love topping my log with a few freshly cracked black peppercorns and a handful of chopped fresh herbs, like parsley or chives, to brighten the flavors. You can also sprinkle some toasted nuts or even a pinch of flaky sea salt to add texture and a little tang. It makes your dish look extra special and ups the flavor game.

Side Dishes

Serve with plenty of crostini or crackers—something sturdy enough to hold the creamy cheese and bacon without breaking. Fresh fruit like sliced apples or grapes works beautifully for balancing richness. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette rounds out the plate and keeps things fresh.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like to set the goat cheese log on a wooden board surrounded by piles of crostini, fresh fruit, and small bowls of honey and nuts. You can even arrange it in a crescent shape with bacon wrapping both ends for a wow factor. Wrapping it with bacon lattice patterns is also a fun way to impress your guests visually.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (it’s rare, I know!), wrap the goat cheese log tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, although the bacon may lose some crispiness. I like to eat it cold or warm it slightly to bring back some of that bacon crunch.

Freezing

I don’t usually freeze the assembled log because the bacon tends to lose texture when thawed. However, you can freeze the cooked bacon separately on a parchment-lined tray and then store it in a freezer bag. When you’re ready, just thaw and toss it back in the oven for a few minutes to crisp up before assembling the appetizer.

Reheating

The best way I’ve found to reheat leftovers is to unwrap the bacon from the cheese and place the bacon under the broiler for a minute or two—watch it closely! Then pop the goat cheese log out for a few minutes to lose the chill. This keeps the bacon crispy and the cheese creamy, just like fresh.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Million Dollar Bacon Goat Cheese Appetizer Log Recipe has become my go-to crowd-pleaser whenever I want to make an impression without hours in the kitchen. Its perfect mix of crispy, creamy, sweet, and spicy is unforgettable, making guests keep coming back for more. I hope you’ll give it a try at your next gathering—you’ll be amazed at how simple ingredients come together to deliver something truly special.

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