This Bacon Dip with Maple Syrup is a sweet and savory dream! One bite, and you’ll be hooked. The salty, crispy candied bacon mixed with a creamy, maple-infused base? Heaven! It’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it a perfect appetizer or snack for any gathering. I’ve been making variations of bacon dip for years.
This Maple Bacon Dip version is a real crowd-pleaser. The candied bacon adds a touch of magic that sets it apart. It’s always the first thing to disappear at potlucks! The best part? You only need a handful of simple ingredients and about 45 minutes to make it. Let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love It
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under an hour, it’s perfect for last-minute get-togethers.
- Sweet & Savory Bliss: The salty bacon and sweet maple syrup create an irresistible flavor combo.
- Versatile: Enjoy it with apples, graham crackers, or even waffles. The possibilities are endless!
- Crowd-Pleaser: From casual snacks to fancy brunches, this dip always gets rave reviews.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the dip in advance and chill until ready to serve.
Bacon Dip with Maple Syrup
- Total Time: 50 mins
- Yield: 8-10 servings
Description
Indulge in this sweet and savory Maple Bacon Dip, perfect for any gathering! Crispy candied bacon meets a creamy, maple-infused base for an irresistible flavor combination. Ready in under an hour, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1/4 cup dark brown sugar
- 3/4 cup powdered sugar
- 4 tbsp pure maple syrup (not pancake syrup)
- 5 pieces thick-cut bacon
- 1 tbsp pure maple syrup
- 2 tbsp light brown sugar
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with foil, place a cookie cooling rack on top, and coat with nonstick spray. Arrange bacon on the rack.
- Mix light brown sugar and 1 tbsp maple syrup in a bowl. Microwave until melted, then brush over bacon. Bake for 35 minutes, or until crispy. Cool completely.
- Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add dark brown sugar and powdered sugar, mixing well.
- Stir in the remaining 4 tbsp maple syrup until light and fluffy.
- Crumble 4 pieces of candied bacon and fold into the dip. Crumble the last piece and sprinkle on top.
Notes
Ensure the cream cheese and butter are softened to room temperature for optimal blending. Taste the dip before adding the final bacon crumbles and adjust the maple syrup or brown sugar to your preference. For a smoother dip, briefly pulse the cream cheese mixture in a food processor before adding the sugars.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 35 mins
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredient Overview
Here’s what you need to make this amazing bacon dip:
- 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1/4 cup dark brown sugar
- 3/4 cup powdered sugar
- 4 tbsp pure maple syrup (not pancake syrup)
For the candied bacon:
- 5 pieces thick-cut bacon
- 1 tbsp pure maple syrup
- 2 tbsp light brown sugar
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Bacon
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a cookie cooling rack on top. This helps the bacon crisp up evenly. Lightly coat the rack with nonstick cooking spray. Arrange the bacon strips on the rack.
Step 2: Candy the Bacon
Mix the light brown sugar and 1 tablespoon of maple syrup in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for 20-30 seconds until melted and smooth. Brush this mixture generously over the bacon strips. Bake for about 35 minutes, or until the bacon is beautifully browned and crispy. Let it cool completely before crumbling.
Step 3: Make the Dip
In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the dark brown sugar and powdered sugar, mixing until everything is well combined.
Step 4: The Maple Magic
Stir in the remaining 4 tablespoons of maple syrup. Blend thoroughly until the dip is light and fluffy. It should be the consistency of frosting—thick, yet spreadable.
Step 5: Bacon Time!
Crumble 4 pieces of the candied bacon and gently fold them into the dip. Crumble the last piece of bacon and sprinkle it on top for a final flourish. Your dip is ready!
Better-Than-Grandma Tips
- Bacon Quality Matters: Use good-quality thick-cut bacon for the best flavor and texture. Look for smoked or applewood-smoked bacon for an extra layer of deliciousness.
- Maple Syrup Purity: Real maple syrup is key. Avoid pancake syrup, as it won’t give you the same rich, authentic flavor.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep a close eye on the bacon while it’s candying. Overbaking can make it too hard to crumble. Aim for crispy, but not brittle.
- Storage Smarts: Store leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the dip for later. For the best flavor, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving. Try our collection of breakfast recipes to find your perfect breakfast pairing.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the dip for a spicy twist.
- Nutty Delight: Fold in some chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch and flavor. Toasted nuts add even more depth.
- Chocolate Decadence: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the dip for an extra touch of sweetness. This pairs surprisingly well with the maple and bacon!
- Fruity Fun: Mix in dried cranberries, chopped apples, or blueberries for a burst of fruity goodness. Browse our desserts category for more sweet treat inspiration.
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the dip a day or two in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature for a bit before serving so it’s easier to spread.
What can I serve with this dip?
So many things! Apples, graham crackers, pretzels, and even mini waffles are all great choices. You can also get creative and try it with sliced pears, baguette slices, or even celery sticks.
Can I use regular bacon instead of thick-cut?
You can, but thick-cut bacon works best for candying. It holds its shape better and has a meatier texture. If using regular bacon, reduce the baking time to avoid over-crisping.
Can I freeze this dip?
Yes, you can freeze the dip for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and give it a good stir before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This Maple Bacon Dip is incredibly versatile. It’s delightful with:
- Crisp Apple Slices: The sweetness of the apples perfectly complements the savory bacon.
- Graham Crackers: A classic pairing that creates a sweet and salty snack.
- Mini Waffles: Elevate your brunch game with this irresistible combo.
- Pretzels: The salty crunch of pretzels adds a contrasting texture.
Explore our lunch recipe ideas for other dishes that would pair perfectly with this dip as part of a larger spread.
Final Thoughts
This Bacon Dip with Maple Syrup is a true winner. It’s a simple recipe with a big flavor payoff. It’s sure to become a new favorite. Give it a try and let me know what you think!
Find more delicious recipes like this on our Dinner page. Share your culinary creations with me on Facebook, Pinterest, or Instagram.
