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Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Water Chestnuts Appetizers

crispy bacon-wrapped water chestnuts appetizers - featured image

These crispy bacon-wrapped water chestnuts are an easy, quick, and crowd-pleasing appetizer featuring a sweet-savory brown sugar glaze that caramelizes perfectly in the oven.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 can (8 oz / 227 g) water chestnuts, drained and patted dry
  • 1012 slices thin-cut bacon
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Toothpicks for securing bacon

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
  2. Drain and dry the water chestnuts thoroughly using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir until the sugar dissolves slightly.
  4. Toss the water chestnuts in the glaze until evenly coated but not drenched.
  5. Cut bacon strips into thirds for easier wrapping.
  6. Wrap each glazed water chestnut with a piece of bacon and secure with a toothpick.
  7. Arrange the wrapped water chestnuts on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart.
  8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning each piece halfway through baking to crisp evenly.
  9. Check for doneness; bacon should be deep golden and crispy with caramelized glaze.
  10. Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Dry water chestnuts thoroughly to ensure crispy bacon. Use thin-cut bacon for best results. Turn appetizers halfway through baking for even crisping. Can be prepared ahead and refrigerated; add extra baking time if baking cold. Reheat in oven at 350°F for 10 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving to keep bacon crispy. Variations include adding cayenne pepper for spice, swapping soy sauce for maple syrup or honey for sweetness, or adding cream cheese inside for a cheesy surprise.

Nutrition

Keywords: bacon wrapped water chestnuts, crispy appetizers, party snacks, easy appetizers, bacon appetizers, sweet and savory snacks