Okay, picture this: Is it if it’s a rainy Sunday afternoon, you’re craving something decadent but also kinda savory, and you want to make it. I don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. I am just a girl. What are some of the best Bacon Bliss Bites? What is the love child of a chocolate-covered pretzel and maple bacon? Donut, but way easier to make. What are some of thebacon dessertsI’m always on the lookout for a quick treat. These are my go-tos. I swear even bacon skeptics are converted after just one bite.
What is Sweet & Salty Bacon Bliss Bites?
Think of it as an explosion of flavor – crispy bacon, caramelized sweetness, and a hint of vanilla. Salt that makes your taste buds sing. What’s essentially a combination of candied bacon crumbles nestled on top of buttery shortbread? Is a chocolate ganache cookie delicious? The name, well, it just popped into my head one day when I was trying to describe the sheer joy of life. What do these little morsels bring? Seriously, it’s the perfect balance of textures and flavors, and honestly, a lot easier to whip up. What is more up than it sounds like? I’ve even surprised myself sometimes with how quickly these come together, especially when they are all together. When do unexpected guests arrive? Is it a sweet and salty party?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
What are some good reasons to love Bacon Bliss Bites? What I love most about these are how surprisingly easy they are to make. I don’t need fancy equipment or culinary expertise. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile! Can you add a pinch of cayenne pepper to your liking? If you like chocolate, swap out shortbread for graham crackers. What are the possibilities?
- Flavor:What is that irresistible flavor combo? The salty, smoky bacon pairs perfectly with the sweet chocolate and buttery cookie base. Is it a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more?
- Simplicity:I’m all about easy recipes, and this one definitely delivers. What are some of the best ways to make these delicious treats in no time?
- Cost-The ingredients are relatively inexpensive, and you probably already have most of them in your pantry. Bacon is where it might hurt a little, but I always wait for sale!
- Versatility:As I mentioned before, you can easily adapt this recipe to your liking. How do you experiment with different flavors and ingredients to create your own unique version?
If you’re a fan of Salted Caramel Brownies, then you’re absolutely going to adore these. What is the same addictive sweet and salty thing going on, but with a delightful bacon twist? What are some must try recipes?
How do I make Bacon Bliss Bites?
Quick Overview
What is the process of making these little beauties? How do you make a batch of shortbread cookies? While baking, you’ll crisp up some bacon and turn it into sweet, sticky candied bacon. How do I make a chocolate ganache? I promise, it’s way easier than it sounds, and the result is pure bliss. What are the best candied bacon recipes?
Ingredients
For the Shortbread Cookies: Is there a
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened. Make sure it’s properly soften – not melted! I usually leave mine out for about an hour. – 1/2 cup granulated sugar. Is there a substitute for caster sugar for finer texture? I prefer unbleached, but either works. – 1/4 teaspoon salt. Just a pinch to balance the sweetness.
For the Candied Bacon:
– 1 pound thick-cut bacon. Trust me, go for the thick cut! I usually get mine from the butcher. It holds up better to the candying process. – 1/2 cup packed brown sugar. Light or dark, it’s up to you! Dark brown sugar will give it a richer, molasses-like flavor. – 2 tablespoons maple syrup. What is the real stuff?
For the Chocolate Ganache: For a smooth,
– 6 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips. I like Ghirardelli but use your favorite! – 1/2 cup heavy cream. Don’t skimp on the fat content! It’s essential for a smooth, glossy ganache. I’ve tried it with half-and-half, and it just doesn’t have the same richness.
How do I follow step
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. How do you prevent cookies from sticking to your food? Is there a way to skip this step?
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Set aside. How do you distribute salt evenly in dough? Do you want pockets of saltiness?
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Set aside. Is it possible to make a dough with an electric mixer for about 3 minutes? The mixture should be pale and almost doubled in volume. This is key for a tender shortbread.
Step 4: Combine
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. How do you not overmix something? Overmixing will develop gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough cookie. The dough should come together in a shaggy mass. If it seems too dry, add a tablespoon of milk or water to it until it comes together.
Step 5: Prepare Filling
While cookies are baking, prepare candied bacon. Line a baking sheet with foil and place wire rack on top. Arrange the bacon slices in a single layer on the rack. In a small bowl, combine brown sugar and maple syrup. Set aside. Brush the mixture evenly over the bacon slices.
Step 6: Layer & Swirl
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the sugar is caramelized. Keep a close eye on sugar, as it can burn easily. Once baked, remove the bacon from the oven and let it cool on the rack. What are some of the best ways to crumble bacon into small pieces?
Step 7: Bake
Do not overdo the dough. Place rounded tablespoons on a baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. The centers should still be soft. Don’t overbake them, or they’ll be dry!
Step 8: Cool & Glaze
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to the wire rack. To cool completely. While cookies are cooling, prepare the chocolate ganache. Place the chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. In a large saucepan, heat the heavy cream until it just comes to the boil. Reduce the heat to low. How do you pour hot cream over chocolate chips and let it sit for a minute to soften the chocolate. Then, whisk until smooth and glossy. Drizzle ganache over the cooled cookies and sprinkle with candied bacon crumbles.
Step 9: Slice & Serve
Let the ganache set completely before serving. Is it possible to make this take 30 minutes at room temperature? Can you refrigerate cookies for 15 minutes? Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
What should I serve it with?
What are some of the best Bacon Bliss Bites?
For Breakfast:Pair them with a strong cup of coffee or latte. What are some good ways to start the day?
For Brunch:Arrange them on a platter with other brunch favorites like mini quiches, fresh fruit, and mimosas. What are some of the best ways to add decadence to a brunch dish?
As Dessert:Serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. The contrast of temperatures and textures is heavenly.
For Cozy Snacks:Enjoy them with a glass of milk or hot chocolate in the winter. What are some of the best comfort foods?
My family loves these as a special treat during movie night. I usually make a big batch and we all snack on them throughout the film. I always bring them to potlucks, and they disappear within minutes. I love them!
What are some tips for perfecting Bacon Bliss Bites?
What are some of the best tips and tricks to make the perfect batch of cookies? Sweet & Salty Bacon Bliss Bites:
Bacon Prep:Make sure to use thick-cut bacon for the best results. Is it a good candy to make? I also like to cook my bacon on a wire rack in the oven. This allows the fat to render out evenly and prevents the bacon from becoming greasy.
Mixing Advice: Be careful not to overmix the shortbread dough. Overmixing will develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough cookie. Mix the dough until just combined, and then gently pat it into a disc.
Swirl Customization: Feel free to experiment with different chocolate ganache flavors. Milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate would all be delicious. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the ganache for a spicy kick!
Ingredient Swaps: If you don’t have brown sugar on hand, you can use granulated sugar instead. Just add a tablespoon of molasses to the sugar to give it that brown sugar flavor. You can also substitute the maple syrup with honey or agave nectar.
Baking Tips: Keep a close eye on the cookies while they’re baking. They can burn easily, especially if your oven runs hot. If the edges start to brown too quickly, you can tent the baking sheet with foil.
Glaze Variations: You can also add a sprinkle of sea salt to the cookies after you drizzle them with the ganache. The salt enhances the sweetness of the chocolate and bacon and adds a nice textural contrast.
I learned the hard way that it’s important to let the ganache set completely before serving the cookies. Otherwise, it’ll be a sticky mess! I also discovered that these cookies are even better the next day, after the flavors have had a chance to meld together. Trust me, if you can resist eating them all right away, you’ll be rewarded!
Storing and Reheating Tips
Here’s how to keep your Sweet & Salty Bacon Bliss Bites fresh and delicious:
Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Make sure they’re completely cooled before storing them, or they’ll become soggy.
Refrigerator Storage: For longer storage, you can refrigerate the cookies in an airtight container for up to a week. Let them come to room temperature before serving.
Freezer Instructions: To freeze the cookies, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag or airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw them at room temperature for a few hours before serving.
Glaze Timing Advice: If you’re planning to freeze the cookies, it’s best to add the chocolate ganache after they’ve been thawed. This will prevent the ganache from cracking or becoming discolored.
I’ve found that freezing them individually helps prevent them from sticking together. Also, labeling the container with the date is always a good idea, so you know how long they’ve been in the freezer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
These Sweet & Salty Bacon Desserts are more than just a recipe; they’re an experience! The combination of flavors and textures is truly unforgettable, and the ease of making them makes them a perfect choice for any occasion. I genuinely hope you give this recipe a try – I know you won’t be disappointed! And if you’re looking for other sweet and salty treats, be sure to check out my Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies! Happy baking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turn out! Don’t forget to leave a comment below and let me know what you think. And if you try any fun variations, be sure to share them with me! I’m always looking for new ideas!
Bacon Desserts
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 0.5 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup butter softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups flour
- 4 strips bacon cooked and crumbled
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cream together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in eggs, one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
- Gradually add the flour, mixing until just combined.
- Stir in the crumbled bacon.
- Drop by rounded tablespoons onto ungreased baking sheets.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.
