This Bourbon Bacon Jam Crostini recipe is a quick and simple appetizer that’s perfect for a party or a weekend snack!
WHY THIS EASY APPETIZER IS FOOLPROOF?
- Everything can literally be made in one pan. Minimal cleanup, and there’s little room for error. Honestly, if you happen to mess this up in any way it can be easily fixed!
- The bacon jam thickens on its own as it cooks so no need for any sort of thickening agents. Really allowing the onions, maple, and bacon to simmer in the bourbon truly brings the flavors together and creates the perfect balance.
- Lastly, they are incredibly easy to assemble once you make the jam. Just toast up the baguette, spread on the boursin cheese , and top with the fresh Bourbon Bacon Jam!
WHAT EXACTLY IS BACON JAM?
It’s a sweet and smoky spread that’s made with crispy bacon, onions, garlic, brown sugar, maple syrup, and various spices. Some versions can also include bourbon or whisky like mine which I believe enhances the flavor. Many people also mix in fruit or peppers. It’s also pretty versatile and can be used on burgers or sandwiches.
QUICK TIP
- Make sure you cook the bacon until nice and crispy for the best texture and flavor in the bacon jam spread.
- After adding in the bourbon, simmer the ingredients so that the flavors are really able to develop.
- Be sure to occasionally stir the mixture so that it doesn’t burn or cause the texture to change too much because it will begin to thicken.
- Toast the baguette just until lightly golden so that they stay crispy and hold their shape when you add the boursin cheese and Bacon Jam.
- If you are making these Bourbon Bacon Jam Crostinis, assemble right before serving!
FAQ
CAN I MAKE THIS AHEAD OF TIME?
Yes, for sure! You can prepare the bacon jam in advance and store in the fridge until the next day when you’re ready to toast up your baguette and assemble.
HOW CAN I STORE THIS RECIPE?
You can store the crostinis in an airtight container in the fridge for about 3 ish days. If you can store all of the ingredients separately before assembling that would be even better!
CAN I SUBSTITUTE THE BAGUETTE FOR SOMETHING ELSE?
Absolutely! You can certainly use Italian loaf or ciabatta bread.
More Appetizers!
- Chicken Bacon Ranch Phyllo Bites
- Smoked Potato Skins
- Chipotle Mango Jerk Wings
- Chicken Bacon Bites
- Bacon Cheeseburger Bites
Questions about this Bourbon Jam Crostini? Did you make this recipe? Let me know in the comments below! Tag me #chefelizabethreese on Instagram, I’d love to see your creations!
Bourbon Bacon Jam Crostini
Ingredients
- 1 lb Bacon
- 1 Loaf Baguette, sliced
- 1 Package of Boursin or Alouette Cheese
- ½ Yellow Onion, Chopped
- ¼ Cup Bourbon
- ¼ Cup Pure Maple Syrup
- ¼ Cup Light Brown Sugar
- ¼ Teaspoon Cayenne Pepper
- 3 Cloves Minced Garlic
- Chives to Garnish (Optional)
- Avocado Oil to coat the Baguette
Instructions
- Cut the bacon into pieces and cook in a skillet until crispy. Remove from the pan and transfer to a paper towel–lined plate to drain excess grease.
- Carefully remove most of the bacon grease from the pan, leaving a thin layer. Add the chopped yellow onion and cook until translucent.
- Add the chopped garlic and cook, stirring constantly, being careful not to burn it.
- Pour in the bourbon and allow it to simmer and reduce slightly.
- Add the light brown sugar and stir until dissolved and combined.
- Add the maple syrup and mix well. Return the cooked bacon to the pan and add in the cayenne pepper and simmer on low for about 8-10 ish minutes until thickened. Remove from heat.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F. Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and coat with a little avocado oil and bake just until golden brown.
- Remove the baguette slices from the oven and let cool slightly. Spread a layer of boursin cheese on each slice, top with the bourbon bacon jam, and garnish with chopped chives. Enjoy!
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