These Bacon Mozzarella Poppers are a fun treat! Crispy bacon wraps gooey mozzarella cheese and they’re drizzled with a sweet maple glaze. What’s not to love?
They’re perfect for game day or a cozy movie night. I can’t resist popping a few right away—just make sure not to burn your tongue on that melted cheese! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mozzarella Cheese: Fresh mozzarella gives the best gooey texture. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, part-skim mozzarella is great. Vegan cheese can work if you’re avoiding dairy. Just be mindful of meltability!
Bacon: Standard bacon adds a delicious salty crunch. Try turkey bacon or prosciutto for leaner options, but note that they may not crisp the same way. For a vegetarian twist, consider using tempeh bacon.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These Japanese-style breadcrumbs make everything extra crispy. If you can’t find panko, regular breadcrumbs can suffice, but the texture won’t be the same. Alternatively, crush cornflakes for a great crunch!
Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup is my favorite for glaze; it adds a beautiful depth of flavor. Honey or agave syrup can replace it, but the taste will change slightly. Always make sure they are of good quality!
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Crispy Poppers?
The frying technique is crucial for achieving a golden, crispy result. Here’s how to get it right:
- Heat your oil properly to 350°F (175°C); use a thermometer for accuracy.
- Fry in small batches to avoid lowering the oil temperature too much. This keeps the poppers crispy.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; it can lead to steaming instead of frying.
- Drain the cooked poppers on paper towels to remove excess oil and keep them crispy.
Keep an eye on the cooking time to avoid burnt poppers — aim for about 2-3 minutes per side. Happy frying!
Bacon Mozzarella Poppers With Sweet Maple Glaze
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Poppers:
- 12 oz mozzarella cheese, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 12 slices of bacon, halved
For the Breading:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs
For the Glaze:
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp sriracha or hot sauce (optional for mild heat)
For Cooking & Garnish:
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Toothpicks or skewers for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 30-40 minutes total. You’ll spend around 15-20 minutes preparing and setting up the poppers, and the frying will take about 15 minutes. Plus, you can enjoy them warm right after cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Mozzarella Cubes:
If your mozzarella isn’t already cut, slice it into bite-sized cubes—around an inch works well. This will be the cheesy center of our poppers.
2. Wrap with Bacon:
Take half a slice of bacon and wrap it around each mozzarella cube. Use a toothpick or skewer to secure it in place so it holds together when you fry it.
3. Set Up Your Breading Station:
In three separate bowls, place the flour in one, beat the eggs in another, and pour the panko breadcrumbs into the last bowl. This will make it easy to coat the poppers.
4. Bread the Poppers:
Take each bacon-wrapped mozzarella cube, coat it in flour, dip it into the beaten eggs, and lastly, roll it in the panko breadcrumbs until it’s covered completely. This will give you that crispiness we all love!
5. Heat the Oil:
In a deep fryer or a large pan, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). This is the perfect temperature to fry your poppers and get them crispy without burning.
6. Fry the Poppers:
Carefully fry the poppers in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Once done, remove them and let them drain on paper towels.
7. Make the Sweet Maple Glaze:
In a small saucepan over medium heat, mix the maple syrup, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and sriracha (if using). Cook this mixture for about 3-5 minutes, until it thickens slightly. Take it off the heat when ready.
8. Serve and Garnish:
Drizzle the sweet maple glaze over the warm poppers or serve it on the side for dipping. Don’t forget to sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top for a pop of color before serving! Enjoy them hot and gooey!
These crispy, cheesy, savory, and sweet poppers are perfect for parties or just a tasty snack at home. Enjoy!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella is the classic choice for its meltiness, you can experiment with cheeses like cheddar, pepper jack for a kick, or even cream cheese for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that different cheeses may change the texture and melting characteristics.
How Can I Make These Poppers Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the bacon-wrapped mozzarella poppers and coat them in breadcrumbs up to a day in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to fry them. When you’re ready, let them sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before frying to ensure even cooking.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain their crispiness. Avoid using a microwave, as it may make them soggy!
Can I Bake These Instead of Frying?
Yes, you can bake the poppers for a healthier option! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the breaded poppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and lightly spray them with cooking oil. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
