Dessert

Million Dollar Bacon Goat Cheese Appetizer Log Recipe

ByNaomi Fletcher January 4, 2026January 4, 2026

Introduction

This Million Dollar Bacon Goat Cheese Appetizer Log is a deliciously indulgent starter perfect for any gathering. Sweet, spicy candied bacon pairs beautifully with creamy goat cheese and crispy crostini for a crowd-pleasing treat that’s easy to assemble.

The image shows a small white square bowl with a layered dish inside. The bottom layer is a soft, white cheese or creamy spread. On top, there is a drizzle of golden syrup or honey, and the top layer is covered with crispy, dark brown pieces of bacon scattered unevenly. Surrounding the bowl, there are slices of toasted bread with a golden crust, squares of white cheese, and slices of orange and white marbled cheese. In the background near the bowl, there are whole apples with red and yellow hues and a pear with green skin. The entire setup is on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 pack thick-cut bacon
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/2 tablespoon water
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 baguette
Olive oil
Salt and pepper
4 or 8-ounce log goat cheese
Maple syrup (or honey, or hot honey)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F and place an oven rack in the center position. Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper, then place an oven-safe rack on top.
Step 2: In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, black pepper, water, and cayenne pepper. Lay bacon slices in a single layer on the rack and press both sides with the brown sugar mixture. Sprinkle red pepper flakes if using.
Step 3: Bake the bacon for 15 minutes, then flip each slice and bake another 10-15 minutes until crispy but not burnt. Remove bacon and place on paper towels to cool.
Step 4: Increase oven temperature to 425°F. Slice the baguette into 1/2-inch slices and arrange cut side down on a foil-lined baking sheet. Brush tops with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
Step 5: Bake the baguette slices for 7-10 minutes until golden and crisp. Let cool for about 30 minutes.
Step 6: Place the goat cheese log on a serving dish. Break the cooled bacon into small pieces and press them into the goat cheese log, spreading some around the base as extra garnish.
Step 7: Serve the appetizer log alongside the crostini and drizzle with maple syrup, honey, or hot honey for added sweetness and spice.

Tips & Variations

Use thick-cut bacon for the best texture and to hold the brown sugar glaze well.
Adjust cayenne and red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level or omit for a milder taste.
Try using flavored goat cheese, such as herb-infused or honey goat cheese, for a different twist.
Substitute crostini with whole-grain crackers or thinly sliced apples for a gluten-free option.

Storage

Store any leftover bacon, goat cheese log, and crostini separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat bacon briefly in the oven to restore crispness, but serve goat cheese and crostini at room temperature for best flavor and texture.

How to Serve

In a close-up, there is a white square bowl sitting on a white marbled surface, holding a layered dish. The first layer is a thick, creamy white cheese spread, topped with crispy, dark brown and reddish bacon pieces scattered unevenly. Amber-colored syrup is drizzled over the bacon and cheese, adding a shiny texture. Around the bowl, there are slices of toasted bread with golden-brown edges, thin slices of white cheese with some small holes, and a few slices of orange-yellow marbled cheese with green herbs. In the background, a whole red and yellow apple and a green pear are partly visible. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare the bacon and crostini ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare both the bacon and crostini up to a day in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers and assemble the appetizer just before serving.