These Bacon Mozzarella Poppers are truly a treat! Crispy bacon wraps around melty mozzarella cheese, and when you add a sweet maple glaze, they become irresistible!
Who can say no to cheesy goodness wrapped in bacon? I love serving these at parties or game days. Just be ready for everyone to ask for more—they’re that good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
mozzarella cheese: Whether you use a block or bocconcini (ball-shaped), mozzarella is key for that ooey-gooey center. If you’re dairy-free, try using a dairy-free mozzarella alternative for a similar melt!
Bacon: I recommend regular bacon for the best flavor. However, turkey bacon can be a leaner substitute, though it may be less crispy and flavorful. Vegans can use a plant-based bacon alternative.
Panko breadcrumbs: These are perfect for an extra-crunchy coating! If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs will work, but they might be less crispy. For gluten-free options, look for gluten-free breadcrumbs!
Maple syrup: Pure maple syrup gives the glaze a lovely flavor, but if you’re out, agave nectar or honey (if not vegan) can be used instead. Just adjust to taste.
What’s the Best Way to Fry Poppers Without Making a Mess?
Frying can be tricky, but it’s straightforward with these steps! First, make sure your oil is hot enough before adding the poppers—aim for about 350°F (175°C). To check, drop a small piece of bread; it should sizzle and turn golden quickly. Here’s how to make frying easier:
- Use a deep skillet or saucepan to give the poppers room to cook evenly.
- Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can reduce the oil temperature.
- Keep a slotted spoon handy for easy removal; let them drain on paper towels so they stay crispy.
By following these tips, you’ll have perfectly fried poppers without a splattered kitchen!
Bacon Mozzarella Poppers With Sweet Maple Glaze
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Poppers:
- 16 oz mozzarella cheese block or mozzarella balls (bocconcini), cut into bite-sized cubes if using block
- 16 slices bacon, cut in half
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- Fresh parsley or dried parsley flakes (for garnish, optional)
For the Sweet Maple Glaze:
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Pinch of black pepper
- Optional: a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy kick
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes of prep time, plus about 15-20 minutes to chill the poppers before frying. The frying itself will take about 15 minutes. So, you’ll be enjoying these delicious bites in about 1 hour total!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Mozzarella Poppers:
Start by cutting the mozzarella into bite-sized cubes if you’re using a block. If you have mozzarella balls, you can skip this step! Take each piece of mozzarella and wrap it tightly with a half slice of bacon. Secure the bacon in place using a toothpick to hold it all together.
2. Set Up the Dredging Station:
Now it’s time to get prepared for coating the poppers! In one bowl, add the flour. In a second bowl, crack the two eggs and beat them until smooth. Place the panko breadcrumbs in a third bowl. You now have everything you need to coat those yummy poppers!
3. Coat the Poppers:
Time to get your hands dirty! Take each bacon-wrapped mozzarella popper and roll it in the flour first, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any extra egg to drip off. Finally, roll it in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure the breadcrumbs stick well. Repeat this process until all the poppers are coated.
4. Chill:
Place the coated poppers on a tray and pop them in the refrigerator to chill for about 15-20 minutes. This step is super important—it helps the coating set and reduces any potential splatter when frying!
5. Prepare the Glaze:
While the poppers are chilling, let’s whip up that tasty maple glaze! In a small saucepan, combine the maple syrup, soy sauce, vinegar, Dijon mustard, black pepper, and chili flakes (if using). Bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Stir occasionally and let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly. Once ready, remove it from heat and set aside.
6. Fry the Poppers:
In a deep skillet or frying pan, heat vegetable oil to around 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the poppers in batches (don’t overcrowd the pan). Fry them for about 3-4 minutes, flipping occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and the coating is golden brown. When done, use a slotted spoon to remove them and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil.
7. Glaze and Serve:
Once all your poppers are fried, arrange them neatly on a serving plate. Drizzle that warm, sweet maple glaze generously over the top. For a touch of color and freshness, feel free to garnish with chopped fresh parsley or a sprinkle of dried parsley flakes!
8. Enjoy Immediately:
These delicious Bacon Mozzarella Poppers are best enjoyed warm while the cheese inside is delightfully melty. Prepare for everybody to come back for more—these are sure to be a hit!
This recipe truly creates a delightful balance between crispy bacon, gooey mozzarella, and a sweet-savory maple glaze. Perfect for any occasion!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella is classic for its melting quality, you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for a twist. Just remember that they may melt differently, so adjust frying time as needed.
What Can I Do If I Don’t Have Panko Breadcrumbs?
No worries! Regular breadcrumbs can work as a substitute. They may not provide the same crunch as panko, but will still help create a tasty coating. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
How Do I Prevent the Popper Coatings from Falling Off While Frying?
Chilling the coated poppers for 15-20 minutes before frying is key! This helps the coating set and adhere better. Make sure your oil is at the right temperature (about 350°F or 175°C) before adding the poppers to prevent splattering and ensure they cook evenly.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the poppers ahead of time! Assemble and coat them, then store them in the fridge for up to a few hours before frying. Just make sure to fry them right before serving for the best texture.
