These Crispy Bacon Mozzarella Poppers with Sweet Maple Glaze are a perfect balance of savory, crispy, and sweet. Thick-cut bacon wraps around creamy mozzarella, baked until golden and irresistible, then finished with a warm maple-butter glaze that takes every bite over the top. They’re simple to prepare, incredibly indulgent, and guaranteed to disappear fast at parties, holidays, or cozy nights at home.
Ingredients
- 8 oz thick-cut bacon
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine work best)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup pure maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Wrap each mozzarella ball tightly with one slice of bacon. Secure with a toothpick if needed.
- Roll each bacon-wrapped mozzarella ball in panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently so the crumbs adhere evenly.
- Arrange the poppers on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each one.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the bacon is crisp and deeply golden.
- While the poppers bake, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the maple syrup and garlic powder, and simmer gently for about 2 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Remove poppers from the oven and drizzle with the warm maple glaze just before serving. Serve immediately for the best texture.
Notes & Tips
- Use fresh mozzarella balls, not shredded or low-moisture cheese, for the best melt.
- Thick-cut bacon works best and prevents the cheese from leaking too quickly.
- These are best served hot, straight from the oven.
- For extra crispiness, place poppers on a wire rack set over the baking sheet while baking.
Nutrition (Approximate per popper)
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Protein: 7g
- Sodium: 350mg
