Name: Mouthwatering Million Dollar Bacon Goat Cheese Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 85 min
Ingredients: 8 oz Goat Cheese (Can be substituted with cream cheese for milder taste.); 6 slices Candied Bacon (Ensure it's crispy for enhanced texture.); 2 tbsp Hot Honey (Regular honey can be used for a more subtle flavor.); 1 pack Crostini (Toast store-bought or homemade for extra flavor.)

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As I unwrapped the creamy log of goodness, the irresistible aroma of crispy bacon filled the kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation. This Million Dollar Bacon Goat Cheese Appetizer Log is a game-changer for gatherings. With its perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy, it’s an easy-to-prepare crowd-pleaser that’s destined to impress your friends and family. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or a festive celebration, this versatile appetizer allows for delightful customization with flavors and textures that cater to any palate. Plus, who can resist a dish that combines creamy goat cheese with the satisfying crunch of candied bacon drizzled in hot honey? Ready to take your appetizer game to the next level? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that’s sure to make you the star of your next party!

Why is this appetizer a must-try?

Crowd-Pleaser: This Million Dollar Bacon Goat Cheese Appetizer Log is sure to wow your guests with its irresistible flavor combination.
Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a delicious dish that looks gourmet!
Versatile Options: Feel free to customize flavors and ingredients—try swapping goat cheese for creamy Brie or adding fresh herbs for an aromatic twist.
Texture Paradise: Enjoy the luscious creaminess of cheese enveloped in crispy bacon, elevated by a sweet and spicy hot honey drizzle.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for prepping in advance, this log can be made a day ahead—just chill until serving. Check out our Potato Cheese Sticks for a delightful side!

Million Dollar Bacon Goat Cheese Ingredients

• Get ready to create this delicious appetizer!

For the Log

Goat Cheese – Offers a creamy texture with a tangy kick; substitute with cream cheese for a milder taste.
Candied Bacon – Delivers a crunchy, sweet-savory layer; make sure it’s crispy to enhance the log’s texture.
Hot Honey – Adds a touch of sweetness with a spicy twist; regular honey can be used for a more subtle flavor.

For Serving

Crostini – Provides a crunchy base for dipping; easily toast store-bought or homemade crostini in a grill pan for extra flavor.

Let your taste buds rejoice with this Million Dollar Bacon Goat Cheese Appetizer Log that’s perfect for any occasion!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Million Dollar Bacon Goat Cheese

Step 1: Cook the Bacon
Preheat your skillet over medium heat, then add strips of bacon, cooking for 8–10 minutes until they are beautifully crispy and golden brown. Remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on paper towels to drain excess grease, ensuring a crunchy texture perfect for the Million Dollar Bacon Goat Cheese log. Once cooled, chop the bacon into small pieces for easy mixing.

Step 2: Mix the Cheese and Bacon
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened goat cheese with half of the chopped bacon. Using a fork or spatula, mix them together until the mixture is smooth and well-blended, imparting that delicious bacon flavor throughout the cheese. This rich and creamy filling is what makes your Million Dollar Bacon Goat Cheese appetizer so indulgent!

Step 3: Shape the Log
Lay out a piece of plastic wrap on your kitchen counter, then transfer the cheese and bacon mixture onto it. Carefully shape the mixture into a log, using the plastic wrap to guide you as you roll it together. Once formed, tightly wrap the log in the plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 1 hour, allowing it to firm up and blend flavors beautifully.

Step 4: Prepare for Serving
After the chilling period, remove the log from the refrigerator and unwrap it from the plastic wrap. On a large plate, press the remaining chopped bacon around the log, coating it thoroughly for that added crunch and flavor. For a final touch, drizzle hot honey over the top, allowing it to cascade down the sides, making your Million Dollar Bacon Goat Cheese log even more enticing.

Step 5: Serve with Crostini
Slice the crostini if using larger pieces or leave them whole if they’re smaller. Under a broiler or grill pan, toast them for about 2–3 minutes until they are golden and crispy. Arrange the toasted crostini around your Million Dollar Bacon Goat Cheese log for an impressive presentation that is ready to serve and enjoyed at your gathering.

What to Serve With Million Dollar Bacon Goat Cheese Appetizer Log

Set the stage for a gathering that’s bursting with flavor, where this exquisite log can shine as a star attraction.

Crunchy Vegetable Crudités: Fresh, colorful veggies offer a crunchy contrast and cleanse the palate, enhancing the creamy richness of the log.
Savory Cheese Platter: Complement the appetizer with flavorful cheeses like Brie or aged cheddar, enriching the charcuterie experience and variety.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of sweet fruits such as melon and berries adds brightness and balances the savory aspects of the dish beautifully.
Spiced Nuts: Crunchy, slightly spicy nuts, like candied pecans or spicy almonds, provide an extra layer of texture and flavor that pairs perfectly.
Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Prosecco serves as a light, refreshing drink that highlights the richness of the bacon and cheese.
Honey-Roasted Carrots: Their sweet, earthy flavor echoes the hot honey drizzle, making for a delightful dipping option while keeping things healthy.
Mini Quiches: Bite-sized, fluffy quiches offer a warm and savory option alongside the cool richness of the log, perfect for variety.
Garlic Breadsticks: Chewy and delightful, these add a satisfying crunch and aromatic garlic flavor that pairs effortlessly with the creamy log.

Million Dollar Bacon Goat Cheese Variations

Ready to put your own spin on this decadent appetizer? Customize the flavors and textures to delight your guests even more!

Cream Cheese: Swap goat cheese for cream cheese for a milder, creamier base. It’s incredibly soothing and pairs beautifully with the crispy bacon.
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like chives, rosemary, or thyme to the cheese mixture for an aromatic lift that brightens the savory notes of the dish.
Honey Variations: Experiment with flavored honeys, such as truffle or maple, for a unique sweetness that’ll have everyone guessing your secret ingredient.
Nutty Twist: Roll the log in crushed nuts like pecans or walnuts instead of bacon for a delightful crunch and an extra layer of flavor.
Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle a balsamic reduction over the log instead of hot honey for a sweet-tart twist that pairs perfectly with the richness of the cheese.
Spicy Kick: Mix in some diced jalapeños or a dash of red pepper flakes to give your appetizer an exciting heat that’ll bring your taste buds to life.
Sweetened Fruits: Add finely chopped dried fruits like figs or apricots into the cheese mixture for a touch of sweetness that perfectly balances the savory bacon.
Alternative Bases: Serve with crispy potato chips or even thinly sliced and toasted baguette for a fun change from traditional crostini. It’s all about making it your own!

For more delicious ideas, why not check out our Honey Cheesecake Salted for a sweet dessert to complement your savory appetizer? Or, perhaps our Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs for added variety on your table? Enjoy!

Make Ahead Options

These Million Dollar Bacon Goat Cheese Appetizer Logs are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy days! You can mix the cheese and bacon filling and shape the log up to 24 hours in advance. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain its creamy texture. Assembly can also be done in advance by preparing the topping of bacon and hot honey—just store them separately in airtight containers. When you’re ready to serve, simply unwrap the log, coat it with bacon, drizzle with hot honey, and enjoy a restaurant-quality appetizer with minimal effort!

How to Store and Freeze Million Dollar Bacon Goat Cheese

Fridge: Keep your Million Dollar Bacon Goat Cheese log wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or placed in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain its freshness and flavor.

Freezer: If you want to store for longer, wrap the log in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil; freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating: There’s no need to reheat this appetizer as it’s best served cold. Just slice and enjoy with crostini right from the fridge!

Leftovers: Store any leftover bacon and crostini in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days to keep them crisp and delicious for your next snack.

Expert Tips for Million Dollar Bacon Goat Cheese

Crispy Bacon Required: Ensure your bacon is fully cooked and crisped to maintain its crunch in the appetizer log. Undercooked bacon can result in a soggy texture.
Mixing Consistency: Achieve a smooth texture by allowing the goat cheese to soften at room temperature before mixing. This makes it easier to blend with bacon for the perfect filling.
Chilling Time: Don’t skip the refrigeration step! Chilling the log for at least an hour helps it firm up, making it easier to slice and serve without falling apart.
Customization Freedom: Feel free to swap ingredients like goat cheese for cream cheese or add fresh herbs. This versatility allows you to tailor the dish to your tastes.
Serving Size Matters: Cut the log into bite-sized pieces for easy serving. This ensures that your guests enjoy the flavors without struggling to manage large portions.
Storage Advice: If you have leftovers, keep the bacon and crostini in separate airtight containers. They will last up to 3 days, ensuring a fresh taste when served again.

Million Dollar Bacon Goat Cheese Appetizer Log Recipe FAQs

How do I select the perfect goat cheese?
Absolutely! Opt for a fresh goat cheese that’s creamy and slightly tangy. Look for a container with no dark spots or unpleasant odor, as these can indicate spoilage. For different textures, you can also use cream cheese or even ricotta.

How should I store the Million Dollar Bacon Goat Cheese log?
To keep it fresh, tightly wrap your Million Dollar Bacon Goat Cheese log in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will stay delicious in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you notice it starting to lose its firmness, it’s best enjoyed sooner rather than later.

Can I freeze the Million Dollar Bacon Goat Cheese log?
Yes, you can! Wrap the log tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. No need to reheat—just slice and serve!

What if my bacon isn’t crunchy enough?
Very! If you find your bacon hasn’t crisped up as much as you’d like, simply pop it back into a skillet over medium heat for a few more minutes, watching closely to avoid burning. The key is to ensure your bacon is thoroughly cooked to contribute that satisfying crunch to your appetizer log.

Is this appetizer suitable for anyone with dietary restrictions?
Definitely! While this specific recipe features bacon and cheese, feel free to customize for dietary needs. Use turkey bacon for a leaner option or substitute the goat cheese with a dairy-free alternative. Always check for allergies, particularly if your guests have specific dietary considerations.

Can I prepare this appetizer in advance?
Absolutely! One of the best things about the Million Dollar Bacon Goat Cheese log is that it can be assembled a day ahead of time. Just wrap it and refrigerate, allowing the flavors to meld overnight. When you’re ready to serve, all you need to do is coat it with bacon and drizzle with honey. Perfect for stress-free entertaining!