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Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Cranberry Goat Cheese Bites

bacon wrapped cranberry goat cheese bites - featured image
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Elegant holiday appetizers featuring creamy goat cheese and tart cranberry wrapped in crispy thick-cut bacon. Freezing the cheese logs ensures they hold their shape for a perfect, mess-free bite.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz fresh goat cheese (Chèvre), softened slightly but cool
  • 12–16 slices thick-cut bacon, cut in half crosswise
  • 1/2 cup whole-berry cranberry sauce or chunky relish, cooled
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (optional)
  • 1 tbsp flour (optional, if mixture is too soft)

Instructions

  1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened goat cheese, cranberry sauce, garlic powder, black pepper, and thyme. Mix until well combined. If the mixture feels too wet, add a tablespoon of flour.
  2. Place a sheet of plastic wrap on your counter. Spoon the cheese mixture onto the plastic wrap, forming a log about 1 inch in diameter. Roll the plastic wrap tightly around the cheese to shape it. Twist the ends of the plastic wrap to secure the log.
  3. Place the wrapped cheese logs in the freezer for at least 30 minutes, or until firm. This step is crucial to prevent the cheese from leaking out during cooking.
  4. Remove the cheese logs from the freezer. Cut the bacon slices in half crosswise. Wrap one half-slice around each cheese log, overlapping slightly if needed. Secure the end of the bacon with a toothpick.
  5. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the wrapped bites on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and golden brown. Flip halfway through for even browning.
  7. Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Freezing the cheese logs is the most critical step to prevent leakage. Use thick-cut bacon to ensure crispiness without burning. Avoid using smooth, jellied cranberry sauce as it can make the cheese soggy. Serve warm, not hot, to allow the cheese to set slightly.

Nutrition

Keywords: holiday appetizers, bacon wrapped goat cheese, cranberry bites, easy party food, christmas snacks, cheese ball alternative, crispy bacon appetizer

Find it online: https://grubella.com/crispy-bacon-wrapped-cranberry-goat-cheese-bites-easy-holiday-appetizers/