Crispy Maple-Glazed Bacon Twists for Cocktail Hour

Introduction

Crispy, sweet, and savory, these Maple-Glazed Bacon Twists are the perfect appetizer to serve during cocktail hour. They’re easy to make on the Arteflame grill, with just the right balance of caramelized maple syrup and smoky bacon flavor. These twists are sure to impress your guests with their irresistible crunch and delightful flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 lb thick-cut bacon
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp cracked black pepper
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped (optional)

Instructions

1. Fire Up the Arteflame

Begin by firing up your Arteflame grill. Let the flat cooktop heat up evenly to a medium temperature, perfect for slowly cooking the bacon until it's crispy and caramelized.

2. Prepare the Bacon Twists

Take each slice of bacon and twist it tightly. The twists help the bacon cook evenly and give them a fun, fancy look. In a small bowl, mix together the maple syrup, brown sugar, black pepper, smoked paprika, and fresh rosemary (if using).

3. Grill the Bacon Twists

Place the twisted bacon strips on the outer flat cooktop of the Arteflame grill. Brush each twist generously with the maple syrup mixture. Cook slowly, turning occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and the glaze has caramelized—about 10-15 minutes.

4. Glaze and Serve

During the last few minutes of cooking, brush on any remaining glaze to ensure a deep, glossy finish. Once done, remove the bacon twists from the grill and let them cool slightly on a wire rack. Serve warm on a platter during cocktail hour.

Tips

• Crispiness Control: For extra crispy bacon twists, cook them longer at a slightly lower temperature.
• Sweet and Spicy Variation: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the glaze for a spicy kick.
• Presentation: Serve the bacon twists in a tall glass or on a sleek tray for an elegant presentation.

Variations

1. Honey-Mustard Bacon Twists: Substitute maple syrup with honey and add Dijon mustard for a tangy twist.
2. Candied Bacon with Pecans: Sprinkle crushed pecans over the bacon before grilling for a nutty crunch.
3. Sriracha Maple Bacon: Mix Sriracha sauce with the maple syrup for a spicy version.
4. Herb-Infused Bacon Twists: Add thyme and sage to the glaze for an aromatic flavor.
5. Brown Sugar Bourbon Bacon: Mix bourbon into the glaze for a rich, boozy flavor.

Pairings

• Drink: Pair with a classic Old Fashioned or a glass of chilled Champagne.
• Appetizer: Serve alongside cheese-stuffed olives or a small charcuterie board.
• Dessert: Follow up with mini chocolate truffles for a sweet finish.

Conclusion

These Crispy Maple-Glazed Bacon Twists are the ultimate cocktail hour snack, combining the best of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors. Your guests won’t be able to resist these delightful bites!