Can I make these Bacon Mozzarella Poppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can make them ahead of time. Just refrigerate them before cooking. Wrap them tightly and cook within 24 hours for the best taste and texture. For reheating, use an air fryer or oven to keep them crispy.

What type of bacon works best for these poppers?

Use thick-cut bacon for the best results. It should have a good mix of meat and fat. This ensures a crispy exterior and helps the bacon wrap well around the mozzarella. Avoid thin bacon as it won't cover or crunch well.

Can I make a vegetarian version of these poppers?

You can try using vegetarian bacon alternatives or plant-based bacon strips. But, it will change the taste and texture a lot.

How do I prevent the cheese from leaking while cooking?

Wrap the mozzarella tightly with bacon and use a toothpick to secure it. Chilling or freezing the mozzarella helps it stay in shape while cooking.

Can I bake these poppers instead of frying?

Yes, bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes. Place them on a wire rack over a baking sheet to let excess grease drip off and cook evenly.

What can I serve with these Bacon Mozzarella Poppers?

They go well with ranch, marinara, or honey mustard sauces. Enjoy them as an appetizer with a salad or as a snack during games with cold drinks.

How long can I store leftover poppers?

Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to keep them crispy. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.

Are these poppers gluten-free?

The basic recipe isn't gluten-free. To make them gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs if you're breading them. Also, make sure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Crispy Bacon Mozzarella Poppers with Sweet Maple Glaze: 5 Epic Party Appetizers

Description

Crispy Bacon Mozzarella Poppers turn simple cheese sticks into a flavor explosion with smoky bacon, gooey mozzarella, and sweet maple glaze. Perfect for parties, game days, and special gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

8 thick-cut bacon strips

8 low-moisture mozzarella cheese sticks

1/4 cup pure maple syrup

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

2 large eggs, beaten

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)

8 wooden toothpicks

Sriracha-ranch dip for serving

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Instructions

1. Wrap each mozzarella stick tightly with one bacon strip and secure with a toothpick

2. Set up breading station with flour, beaten eggs, and panko breadcrumbs in separate bowls

3. Dip each wrapped stick in flour, then eggs, then coat thoroughly with panko breadcrumbs

4. Heat vegetable oil to exactly 350°F (175°C) in deep fryer or heavy pot

5. Fry poppers for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and bacon is crispy

6. Remove and drain on wire rack over baking sheet

7. Drizzle with maple glaze while still warm

8. Serve immediately with Sriracha-ranch dip

Notes

For best results, use thick-cut bacon with good meat-to-fat ratio

Chill wrapped poppers for 30 minutes before breading to prevent cheese leakage

Alternative: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes on wire rack

Store leftovers in refrigerator up to 3 days

Reheat in air fryer or oven to maintain crispiness

Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT10M
Category: Appetizer
Method: Deep Frying
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 popper
Calories: 185
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 420mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 11g
Cholesterol: 35mg