There’s something downright irresistible about the combination of salty and sweet, and that’s precisely what you’ll get with this Chocolate Covered Bacon recipe. Picture this: thick-cut bacon, fresh from the oven, its crispy edges shimmering, calling to you as it cools. Now imagine that tantalizing aroma complemented by a rich layer of velvety chocolate draping each slice, creating an explosion of flavors that dance on your palate.
Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a brunch, provide a unique treat for a special occasion, or simply satisfy a late-night craving, this easy-to-make snack hits all the right notes. With just a handful of ingredients, you can transform humble bacon into an indulgent masterpiece. Its luscious, smoky essence paired with the sweetness of chocolate is bound to surprise and delight everyone who bites into it. Trust me, once you taste this delightful treat, ordinary snacks will be a thing of the past!
Why is Chocolate Covered Bacon so addictive?
Irresistible Combination: The blend of sweet chocolate and savory bacon creates a flavorful explosion that’s hard to resist.
Quick Prep: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have this delicious treat ready in no time!
Versatile Treat: Perfect for holiday gifts, game day snacks, or even an upscale dessert option, this recipe fits every occasion.
Texture Contrast: Enjoy that satisfying crunch of crispy bacon enveloped in smooth, creamy chocolate—a true taste sensation!
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Whether you’re entertaining guests or indulging solo, this snack is guaranteed to impress. Dive into more indulgent recipes like chocolate-dipped treats for unique inspirations!
Ingredients for Chocolate Covered Bacon
Unlock the secrets to this scrumptious treat with these simple ingredients!
For the Bacon
- Thick-Cut Bacon – This provides the perfect crispy and smoky flavor; for a leaner alternative, consider using turkey bacon.
For the Chocolate
- Dark/Milk/Semi-sweet Chocolate Chips – The main source of sweetness and richness; you can substitute with dairy-free chocolate for a gluten-free option.
- Coconut Oil (optional) – This smooths out the chocolate for easier dipping; shortening can be a good alternative if you prefer.
For Optional Toppings
- Flaky Sea Salt – Perfect for enhancing the sweet-salty contrast for your chocolate covered bacon.
- Crushed Nuts (Pecans, Almonds) – Adds delightful crunch and flavor variations that elevate the treat.
- Sprinkles – An easy way to add festive flair, making it great for special occasions.
- Crushed Pretzel Bits – Introduces additional texture and a satisfying salty crunch to your mouthfuls of chocolate-covered goodness.
How to Make Chocolate Covered Bacon
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Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and carefully place a wire rack on top—this will help the bacon crisp perfectly.
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Cook Bacon: Lay your thick-cut bacon slices on the wire rack in a single, even layer. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the bacon is crispy and golden brown, releasing that mouthwatering aroma.
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Cool Bacon: Once baked, transfer the bacon to paper towels to drain excess grease. Allow it to cool completely—the cooling helps the chocolate adhere better when you dip!
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Melt Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips with coconut oil (if desired). Microwave in 20-30 second intervals, stirring each time until the mixture is completely smooth. You can also melt it using a double boiler for more control.
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Dip Bacon: Line another baking sheet with parchment paper. Carefully dip each strip of cooled bacon into the melted chocolate, fully or halfway as you prefer. Let any excess chocolate drip off gently.
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Set Toppings (if desired): If you want to add toppings like flaky sea salt or crushed nuts, sprinkle them immediately after dipping the bacon so they stick.
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Chill: Finally, place the tray in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes, or until the chocolate has hardened and formed a delightful shell around the bacon.
Optional: Consider drizzling a little white chocolate on top for an extra touch of elegance!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Chocolate Covered Bacon
- Room Temperature: Keep your chocolate covered bacon stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to enjoy its fresh, crispy texture.
- Fridge: For extended freshness, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Just take it out a few minutes before serving to allow it to warm up slightly.
- Freezer: To freeze, wrap individual pieces in parchment paper, place them in a freezer-safe bag, and store for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before serving to retain the best texture.
- Reheating: If desired, briefly warm leftover chocolate covered bacon in a microwave for 10-15 seconds to regain a bit of crispness without melting the chocolate excessively.
Expert Tips for Making Chocolate Covered Bacon
- Cool Before Dipping: Ensure the cooked bacon has completely cooled to prevent sogginess and help the chocolate adhere better.
- Melt Carefully: Melt chocolate in short intervals while stirring to avoid burning; this ensures a smooth consistency for your chocolate covered bacon.
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Opt for good quality chocolate chips as they greatly enhance the flavor and richness of your treat.
- Experiment with Toppings: Get creative! Try different toppings like nuts or sprinkles to add unique flavors and textures that will surprise your guests.
- Storage Knowledge: Store your chocolate covered bacon in an airtight container in a cool, dry place to maintain texture and freshness.
Make Ahead Options
Chocolate Covered Bacon is a fantastic treat that can be easily prepped in advance, making it a lifesaver for busy home cooks. You can bake the bacon up to 24 hours ahead of time and refrigerate it, ensuring it remains deliciously crispy for dipping later. Simply store the cooled bacon strips in an airtight container to maintain their quality. When you’re ready to enjoy or serve this indulgence, melt the chocolate (this can also be done in advance), dip the bacon, and chill for 15-20 minutes until set. This streamlined meal prep saves you time while guaranteeing that your Chocolate Covered Bacon remains just as delightful as when freshly made!
What to Serve with Chocolate Covered Bacon?
To create a truly delightful spread, consider pairing this indulgent treat with complementary flavors and textures that enhance your experience.
- Savory Cheese Platter: A mix of rich cheeses like creamy brie and sharp cheddar balances the sweetness, making each bite luxurious.
- Spicy Jalapeño Poppers: These kicky bites provide a delicious contrast to the sweet chocolate and salty bacon, adding excitement to your palate.
- Fresh Fruit Skewers: Bright, juicy fruits like strawberries and pineapple add a refreshing note that lightens the overall decadence, creating a perfect summer feel.
- Crunchy Veggie Sticks: Serve with a creamy dip like ranch or hummus for a crunchy element that kids and adults alike will enjoy, providing balance.
- Rich Hot Chocolate: Enhance the chocolate experience with a warm cup of hot cocoa, creating a cozy synergy between sweet and savory.
- Maple Syrup Drizzle: A light drizzle adds a hint of sweetness while amplifying the maple notes, making each bite irresistible.
- Buttery Cornbread: This subtly sweet, crumbly side provides a comforting contrast, making it a perfect partner for the richness of chocolate-covered bacon.
- Chocolate Stout Beer: For the adults, pairing this treat with a dark, rich beer gives it an extra depth that resonates beautifully with the chocolate flavor.
Indulge in this eclectic mix that highlights your chocolate covered bacon while inviting delightful conversation and camaraderie around the table!
Chocolate Covered Bacon Customizations
There’s nothing quite like jazzing up this sweet and savory delight to make it truly your own and awaken your taste buds!
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Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of chili powder or cayenne before dipping for a delightful heat that complements the sweetness.
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Nutty Goodness: Crush your favorite nuts like almonds or pecans and roll dipped bacon in them for extra crunch and flavor.
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Maple Infusion: Brush your bacon slices with pure maple syrup before baking for a sweet, caramelized glaze.
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Dark & White: After dipping in dark chocolate, drizzle melted white chocolate over the top for a beautiful contrast.
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Coconut Touch: Roll the chocolate-covered bacon in shredded coconut for a tropical twist that adds texture.
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Zesty Citrus: Before dipping in chocolate, grate some lemon or orange zest on top for a refreshing citrus note.
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Savory Herb: Mix fresh rosemary or thyme into the melted chocolate for an aromatic, savory upgrade that will surprise your palate.
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Pretzel Crunch: Dip bacon in melted chocolate and then roll it in crushed pretzel bits for a fun twist on texture and flavor!
Chocolate Covered Bacon Recipe FAQs
What type of bacon is best for Chocolate Covered Bacon?
Absolutely! Thick-cut bacon is ideal for this recipe as it provides that perfect crispy and smoky flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner alternative, turkey bacon can work well too, but keep in mind it may not have the same rich taste.
How should I store Chocolate Covered Bacon?
You can store your chocolate covered bacon in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like extended freshness, refrigerate for up to 1 week. For best results, remember to allow it to warm up slightly before serving to restore its delightful texture!
Can I freeze Chocolate Covered Bacon?
Yes! To freeze, wrap individual pieces in parchment paper and place them into a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge before serving!
What are some common mistakes to avoid when making Chocolate Covered Bacon?
One common mistake is dipping the bacon before it has fully cooled; this can lead to sogginess. Ensure it’s completely cooled on paper towels to allow the chocolate to adhere properly. Also, melting chocolate carefully is crucial—microwave in short intervals and stir frequently to prevent burning.
Is Chocolate Covered Bacon safe for my pets?
While we all adore our pets, chocolate is toxic to them, so it’s essential to keep any chocolate covered bacon out of their reach. If you’re looking for a pet-friendly treat, consider offering them cooked and unsalted bacon without chocolate instead.
What toppings can I add to my Chocolate Covered Bacon?
The more the merrier! I love adding flaky sea salt to enhance that sweet-salty contrast. Crushed nuts like pecans or almonds provide a lovely crunch, and sprinkles can give a festive touch. Feel free to get creative with toppings to make each batch unique!
Chocolate Covered Bacon Bliss: A Sweet and Savory Snack
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top.
- Lay bacon slices on the wire rack in a single layer. Bake for 15-20 minutes until crispy and golden.
- Transfer bacon to paper towels to drain grease and let cool completely.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips with coconut oil. Microwave in intervals, stirring until smooth.
- Dip cooled bacon into melted chocolate, allowing excess to drip off.
- Sprinkle toppings immediately after dipping if desired.
- Chill in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes until chocolate hardens.