These Bacon Mozzarella Poppers are a delicious treat! Crisp bacon wraps around gooey mozzarella, and with a drizzle of sweet maple glaze, they are simply irresistible.
Who wouldn’t love this combo? They’re perfect for snacking or as a fun appetizer at parties. I can’t resist sneaking a few while they cool—so tasty! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
mozzarella cheese: Fresh mozzarella is the best for these poppers. For a firmer texture, you could use low-moisture mozzarella. If you’re dairy-free, try melty vegan cheese as a substitute.
Bacon: I love using classic smoked bacon for its rich flavor. Turkey bacon or prosciutto can be good alternatives for a lighter option. Just remember, cooking times may vary!
Panko breadcrumbs: These breadcrumbs give a fantastic crunch. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs work too, though they might be less crispy. You can also make your own by processing stale bread.
Maple syrup: Using pure maple syrup gives the best flavor for the glaze. If you’re in a pinch, you can use honey or agave syrup, but the taste will be different.
How Can I Get the Perfect Crust on Mozzarella Poppers?
The breading technique is key to getting that crispy crust. Follow these steps closely:
- First, ensure each mozzarella cube is fully coated in the flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs.
- To make it extra crispy, try double-coating: dip back into the egg and then the breadcrumbs again.
- Bake them on a wire rack over the baking sheet if you have one. This allows air to circulate, leading to evenly crispy poppers.
Taking the time to prep this way makes a BIG difference in the end result! Happy cooking!
Bacon Mozzarella Poppers With Sweet Maple Glaze
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Poppers:
- 12 oz mozzarella cheese block (cut into bite-sized cubes)
- 12 slices of bacon (cut in half)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh chives, chopped (for garnish)
For the Sweet Maple Glaze:
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for slight heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty recipe takes about 20 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of baking time, so you should have these delicious poppers ready to enjoy in around 40 minutes! Perfect for a quick snack or an appetizer before dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your poppers will bake perfectly crispy. While that’s heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or place a wire rack on top. This will help the heat circulate around the poppers as they cook.
2. Set Up Your Breading Station:
Create a simple breading station by placing the flour in one bowl, whisking the eggs in a second bowl, and in a third bowl, mixing the panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This makes it easier to bread each mozzarella cube smoothly.
3. Bread the Mozzarella Cubes:
Now, take each mozzarella cube and dip it first into the flour, shaking off any extra. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, letting any excess drip off. Finally, coat the cube in the seasoned panko breadcrumbs, making sure it’s well covered. For an extra crispiness, feel free to repeat the egg and breadcrumb coating!
4. Wrap with Bacon:
Once all cubes are breaded, take half a slice of bacon and wrap it around each cube, securing it with a toothpick if necessary. It helps keep everything together while baking and makes them easy to handle!
5. Bake the Poppers:
Arrange the wrapped poppers on your baking sheet and pop them in the oven! Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the bacon looks crispy and the coating is golden brown. Try not to eat them as you wait!
6. Prepare the Sweet Maple Glaze:
While the poppers are baking, let’s make that delicious glaze. In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the maple syrup, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and optional red pepper flakes. Whisk it all together and let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly. Then remove from heat!
7. Drizzle and Garnish:
Once the poppers are golden and ready, take them out of the oven. Carefully drizzle the sweet maple glaze over the hot poppers. They will be super hot, so handle them with care! Garnish with chopped fresh chives to give them a fresh touch.
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Your Bacon Mozzarella Poppers are ready to enjoy! Serve them warm and watch them disappear fast. Perfectly crispy, cheesy, and sweet—they’re always a hit!
Can I Make These Poppers Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare and wrap the bacon around the mozzarella cubes in advance. Just store them in the fridge for up to a day before baking. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply bake them as directed!
What Can I Use Instead of Panko Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs will work fine, though they may not be as crispy. Alternatively, you can crush some crackers or even use ground oats for a gluten-free option!
How Do I Store Leftover Poppers?
To store leftovers, let the poppers cool completely, then place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until they are warmed through and crispy again.
Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Maple Glaze?
Definitely! If you prefer a less sweet glaze, reduce the amount of maple syrup or add a splash more soy sauce for a saltier flavor. You can always taste and adjust as you go for your ideal balance!