Million Dollar Bacon Goat Cheese Appetizer Log
The Million Dollar Bacon Goat Cheese Appetizer Log is a delicious and eye-catching starter that combines creamy goat cheese with crispy, smoky bacon. Wrapped in a soft layer of pancake…
Tip: save now, cook later.The Million Dollar Bacon Goat Cheese Appetizer Log is a delicious and eye-catching starter that combines creamy goat cheese with crispy, smoky bacon. Wrapped in a soft layer of pancake or dough and drizzled with sweet syrup, it’s a fun mix of flavors and textures that always gets people excited at any gathering.
I love making this appetizer when I want to make guests feel special without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of savory bacon and tangy goat cheese is just irresistible, and the slight sweetness from the syrup gives it a perfect balance. It’s one of those recipes where you don’t need fancy ingredients, just good flavors and a bit of care.
My favorite way to serve this log is sliced into bite-sized pieces, making it easy for everyone to grab and enjoy without any fuss. It’s always a hit at parties because it’s both tasty and unique. Plus, it’s a fun way to welcome friends with something unexpected and delicious right from the start.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bacon: Thick-cut bacon gives the best texture and flavor in this recipe. If you want a leaner option, turkey bacon can work, but the flavor will be milder. I like to save some cooked bits for the topping—they add a nice crunch.
Goat Cheese and Cream Cheese: The combo creates a smooth, tangy filling. Goat cheese alone is fine if you prefer a stronger tang, or swap cream cheese for a dairy-free soft cheese if needed.
Fresh Herbs: Parsley is fresh and bright, but rosemary or thyme offers earthier notes. Use whatever you have on hand or enjoy.
Walnuts or Pecans: Toasted nuts add texture and a hint of sweetness. If you’re nut-free, try crushed pretzels or crispy fried onions as alternatives.
Maple Syrup or Honey: This adds a subtle sweet contrast to the savory bacon and cheese layers. Agave syrup can be used in place of honey for a vegan option.
How Do You Roll the Bacon and Cheese Log Without it Falling Apart?
Rolling the log tightly keeps everything together and makes slicing easier.
- Start with the bacon warm and flexible—bake just until it releases fat but is still soft.
- Spread the cheese mixture evenly but don’t pile it too thick to avoid bursting.
- Use parchment paper to help guide a tight roll—lift edges and roll firmly but gently.
- Chill the roll briefly before the final bake if it feels loose; this firms it up.
- Baking again crisps the bacon and “sets” the log so it holds shape when sliced.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – essential for laying out bacon and baking the log evenly.
- Parchment paper – helps keep the bacon from sticking and makes rolling easier.
- Mixing bowl – to blend the goat cheese, cream cheese, and herbs smoothly.
- Spatula or butter knife – for spreading the cheese mixture evenly over bacon.
- Sharp knife – to slice the finished log into neat appetizer pieces.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap goat cheese for cream cheese mixed with feta for a milder, saltier filling.
- Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a tangy twist.
- Use smoked paprika or chili flakes in the cheese mix to add a bit of spice.
- Mix in fresh chopped basil or chives with the herbs for a different herbal note.
Million Dollar Bacon Goat Cheese Appetizer Log
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Bacon & Cheese Layers:
- 10 slices thick-cut bacon
- 8 oz goat cheese, softened
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (or rosemary or thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Topping:
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans, toasted
- 1/4 cup cooked bacon bits (reserved from bacon slices)
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
- Fresh rosemary sprigs (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, 10-12 minutes to start baking the bacon, about 15-20 minutes for the final bake, plus a few minutes to add toppings and slice. Altogether, plan for about 40-45 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep and Partially Cook the Bacon:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange bacon slices side by side on a parchment-lined baking sheet, slightly overlapping to form a rectangle large enough for rolling. Bake for 10-12 minutes until the bacon starts to release fat but remains flexible. Remove and drain excess fat if needed.
2. Make the Cheese Filling:
While the bacon bakes, combine goat cheese and cream cheese in a medium bowl until smooth. Mix in the chopped parsley and black pepper to distribute the flavors evenly.
3. Assemble and Roll the Log:
Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the warm bacon sheet. Using the parchment paper, carefully and tightly roll the bacon around the cheese to form a log shape.
4. Final Bake and Add Topping:
Bake the log for 15-20 more minutes until the bacon is crisp and the cheese is warmed through. Mix the toasted nuts, cooked bacon bits, and maple syrup or honey in a small bowl, then drizzle this mixture over the hot log. Garnish the serving platter with fresh rosemary sprigs for a fresh aroma.
5. Serve:
Let the log cool for a few minutes to set, then slice into bite-sized pieces. Serve this delicious appetizer warm or at room temperature and watch it disappear fast!
Can I Use Regular Bacon Instead of Thick-Cut?
Yes, you can use regular bacon, but it might be harder to roll without tearing since it’s thinner. Cook it until just pliable, then handle gently when rolling the log.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Wrap the log tightly in plastic wrap or place slices in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven to keep the bacon crispy.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare and roll the log, then refrigerate it before the final bake. When ready, bake as directed and add the topping just before serving.
What Can I Substitute for Goat Cheese?
You can swap goat cheese with cream cheese mixed with a bit of feta for tanginess, or use plain cream cheese for a milder flavor that still works great in this recipe.
