When the weekend rolls around and the weather calls for hosting friends, nothing gets me more excited than preparing mouthwatering appetizers. Enter the Bourbon Bacon Jam Crostini – an irresistible blend of sweet and savory that elevates any gathering. Imagine the aroma of crispy bacon mingling with the warmth of bourbon and maple syrup, wafting through your kitchen, enticing everyone to dive in. This recipe is not just easy to make; it’s also a game changer for your entertaining repertoire. With its creamy brie topping and delectable bacon jam, these crostini promise to be a hit. Plus, you can whip up the jam in advance, giving you more time to relax and enjoy time with your guests. Whether it’s a cozy dinner party or a lively game night, these delightful bites are sure to impress and disappear quickly!
Why Love Bourbon Bacon Jam Crostini?
Bourbon Bacon Jam Crostini is the ultimate crowd-pleaser!
Irresistible Flavor: The delectable mix of sweet bourbon and savory bacon offers a taste sensation that’s hard to resist.
Easy to Prepare: Simple steps mean even novice cooks can shine at their next gathering.
Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the jam in advance, allowing for stress-free hosting.
Versatile Topping: Whether you stick with brie or switch it up with goat cheese, each bite is a gourmet experience.
Perfect for Any Occasion: From dinner parties to game nights, these crostini are guaranteed to win hearts and stomachs!
Bourbon Bacon Jam Crostini Ingredients
For the Bacon Jam
• Applewood Smoked Bacon – Provides rich, smoky flavor; substitute with any preferred bacon variety.
• Onion (small, finely diced) – Adds sweetness and depth; sweet onions are preferable.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced) – Enhances flavor; can be omitted for a milder taste.
• Dark Brown Sugar (½ cup) – Adds sweetness and contributes to jam consistency; light brown sugar can be a substitute.
• Sherry Vinegar (¼ cup) – For acidity and brightness; Champagne or white wine vinegar can be used instead.
• Bourbon (¼ cup) – Infuses the jam with a complex flavor; omit for a non-alcoholic version.
• Maple Syrup (¼ cup) – Adds a rich sweetness; use good quality grade A syrup for best flavor.
• Water (¼ cup) – Adjusts consistency of the jam.
• Smoked Paprika (1 teaspoon) – Provides color and additional smokiness; regular paprika can be used if necessary.
• Dijon Mustard (1 teaspoon) – Adds depth and tang; can be omitted.
• Fresh Thyme (½ teaspoon, roughly chopped) – Offers herbal freshness; substitute with dried thyme if fresh is unavailable.
For the Crostini
• Olive Oil (1 tablespoon + more for brushing) – For sautéing and brushing on baguette slices.
• Baguette (1 large) – Base for crostini; substitute with any long, thin loaf, sliced into ½ inch thick rounds.
• Brie Cheese (6-8 oz) – Creamy, tangy topping; goat cheese or ricotta can be used as alternatives.
Prepare to savor the delight of Bourbon Bacon Jam Crostini—a simple yet flavorful appetizer that will elevate any gathering!
How to Make Bourbon Bacon Jam Crostini
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Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) for perfectly cooked bacon that will become crispy and delicious.
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Cook Bacon: Arrange the applewood smoked bacon on a wire rack over a lined baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes until crispy, then cool and chop into bite-sized pieces.
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Make Bacon Jam: In a pan, sauté the finely diced onions and minced garlic in olive oil for about 10 minutes until they soften. Add the cooked bacon and the other jam ingredients, simmering for about 30 minutes until thickened and aromatic.
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Cool Jam: Transfer the thickened bacon jam to a bowl, letting it cool at room temperature for 30 minutes. For best flavor, refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to 3 days.
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Prepare Crostini: Preheat the broiler. While it heats up, slice the baguette and brush the rounds with olive oil. Broil for about 2 minutes, keeping a close eye until they are lightly toasted and golden.
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Assemble and Serve: While the crostini are still warm, top each piece with a slice of creamy brie, followed by a generous tablespoon of the savory bourbon bacon jam.
Optional: Sprinkle with fresh thyme for an extra burst of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Bourbon Bacon Jam Crostini
- Watch the Broiler: Avoid burning the crostini by keeping a close eye on them while broiling. Ovens vary, so check regularly.
- Chill for Flavor: Allow the bacon jam to cool completely for the best flavor; it actually thickens and develops a richer taste as it cools.
- Prevent Sogginess: If prepping ahead, store the ingredients separately. This keeps the crostini crispy and fresh until serving.
- Bacon Choices: While applewood smoked bacon is fantastic, feel free to experiment with different bacon types for your bourbon bacon jam to suit your taste.
- Make It Yours: Don’t hesitate to customize toppings—goat cheese, cream cheese, or even spicy cayenne can elevate your Bourbon Bacon Jam Crostini experience!
Bourbon Bacon Jam Crostini Variations
Feel free to get creative and personalize your crostini with these delicious twists!
- Vegetarian Delight: Substitute bacon with caramelized mushrooms for a rich, savory flavor that everyone will love.
- Cheese Swap: Try goat cheese or cream cheese instead of brie for a different taste and creamy texture.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a zesty bite that enhances the savory jam even more.
- Sweet Addition: Mix in caramelized onions with the bacon jam for an extra layer of sweetness and depth.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or rosemary in the bacon jam for a fragrant twist.
- Nutty Crunch: Top with chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch, adding a surprising texture contrast.
- Fruit Flavors: Incorporate diced apples or pears into the jam for a sweet, fruity note that pairs beautifully with the savory elements.
- Non-Alcoholic Option: Omit the bourbon and use extra maple syrup or a splash of apple cider to maintain that delightful sweetness.
How to Store and Freeze Bourbon Bacon Jam Crostini
Fridge: Keep leftover bacon jam in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This allows the flavors to meld together, making each serving even tastier.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the bacon jam in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before using.
Crostini Preparation: Assemble crostini right before serving for optimal crispiness. If made in advance, store bread and bacon jam separately at room temperature to maintain their textures.
Reheating: To reheat, place assembled crostini under the broiler for about 1-2 minutes until warmed and slightly crispy. Enjoy the delightful flavors of Bourbon Bacon Jam Crostini fresh!
What to Serve with Bourbon Bacon Jam Crostini?
Elevate your appetizer experience with delectable sides that harmonize beautifully with rich, savory flavors.
- Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Tossed in olive oil and garlic, these earthy bites offer a crunchy contrast to the creamy crostini.
- Roasted Garlic Hummus: Silky and smooth, it adds a refreshing dip option that balances the savory jam perfectly.
- Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with tangy vinaigrette provides a crisp, refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the crostini.
- Sparkling Wine: A glass of bubbly enhances the experience, cleansing the palate between the savory bites, making them feel extra special.
- Caramelized Pears: Their sweetness beautifully complements the bourbon flavors while adding a touch of elegance to your spread.
- Herbed Goat Cheese Crostini: A delightful medley of flavors, this variation offers a creamy and tangy bite that pairs exceptionally well with bacon jam.
- Chocolate Truffles: End on a sweet note; the richness of dark chocolate offers a delightful contrast to the savory appetizer.
- Craft Beer: A malty beer adds an extra layer of flavor that balances beautifully with the smoky notes of the bacon jam.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing Bourbon Bacon Jam Crostini ahead of time is a fantastic way to save precious moments on busy entertaining days! You can make the bacon jam up to 3 days in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its rich flavor. If you prefer, you can even freeze the jam for up to 3 months—just remember to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before use. For the crostini, slice and prepare the baguette up to 24 hours ahead; store the slices at room temperature in a sealed container to keep them fresh. When you’re ready to serve, broil the crostini for a couple of minutes and top them with warm brie and the chilled bacon jam, ensuring a delectable appetizer that’s just as tasty as if made fresh!
Bourbon Bacon Jam Crostini Recipe FAQs
What kind of bacon should I use for Bourbon Bacon Jam Crostini?
Absolutely! I recommend using applewood smoked bacon for its rich, smoky flavor, but feel free to swap it out with any preferred bacon variety you love. Each type will bring its unique flair to the jam.
How long can I store leftover bacon jam in the fridge?
You can store leftover bacon jam in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld together even more, making it taste even better on day two!
Can I freeze the bacon jam, and how should I do it?
Yes! To freeze your bourbon bacon jam, transfer it to a freezer-safe container, making sure to leave some space for expansion. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it overnight in the fridge.
What’s the best way to keep crostini crispy if I prepare them ahead of time?
For the crispiest crostini, it’s best to assemble them right before serving. If you prepare them in advance, keep the toasted bread and bacon jam stored separately at room temperature. This will help maintain their textures until it’s time to enjoy!
Can I make Bourbon Bacon Jam Crostini vegetarian?
Very! For a vegetarian twist, simply swap out bacon for caramelized mushrooms, or even sautéed eggplant. The savory and sweet components of the jam can still be achieved with just those vegetable substitutes, ensuring a delicious bite for everyone!
How can I reheat assembled crostini without losing crispiness?
To reheat your assembled crostini, place them under the broiler for about 1-2 minutes. Keep a close eye to prevent burning, and they’ll come out warm and slightly crispy, ready to serve and enjoy once again!
Bourbon Bacon Jam Crostini: Elevate Your Entertaining Game
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) for perfectly cooked bacon that will become crispy and delicious.
- Cook Bacon: Arrange the applewood smoked bacon on a wire rack over a lined baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes until crispy, then cool and chop into bite-sized pieces.
- Make Bacon Jam: In a pan, sauté the finely diced onions and minced garlic in olive oil for about 10 minutes until they soften. Add the cooked bacon and the other jam ingredients, simmering for about 30 minutes until thickened and aromatic.
- Cool Jam: Transfer the thickened bacon jam to a bowl, letting it cool at room temperature for 30 minutes. For best flavor, refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to 3 days.
- Prepare Crostini: Preheat the broiler. While it heats up, slice the baguette and brush the rounds with olive oil. Broil for about 2 minutes, keeping a close eye until they are lightly toasted and golden.
- Assemble and Serve: While the crostini are still warm, top each piece with a slice of creamy brie, followed by a generous tablespoon of the savory bourbon bacon jam.