Chocolate-Dipped Bacon with Sea Salt is a decadent and delicious combination that brings together the best of both worlds: the salty, savory crunch of crispy bacon and the smooth, rich sweetness of dark chocolate. Topped with a sprinkle of sea salt, this indulgent treat is perfect for parties, brunches, or as a unique snack that will leave everyone craving more.

In this guide, we’ll cover how to make this mouthwatering snack, provide tips for customizing the recipe, and explore pairing ideas to elevate this crowd-pleaser to the next level.

Why You’ll Love Chocolate-Dipped Bacon with Sea Salt

1. A Perfect Balance of Flavors

The combination of sweet, salty, and savory flavors is irresistible. The crispy bacon pairs beautifully with the velvety dark chocolate, while the sea salt enhances both the chocolate and the bacon, creating a flavor explosion in every bite.

2. Quick and Easy to Make

With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this treat is easy to make and perfect for when you need a last-minute snack or party appetizer.

3. An Impressive and Unique Snack

Chocolate-dipped bacon is a conversation starter and a memorable addition to any event. It’s a treat that will surprise and delight your guests, making it ideal for brunches, game day parties, or even holiday gatherings.

4. Versatile and Customizable

You can easily customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences. Use different types of chocolate, experiment with various toppings, or try candied bacon for an extra-special twist.

Ingredients for Chocolate-Dipped Bacon with Sea Salt

Here’s what you’ll need to make 12 pieces:

  • 12 strips of thick-cut bacon: Thick-cut bacon works best for this recipe, as it holds up well when dipped in chocolate and provides a satisfying crunch.
  • 8 ounces dark chocolate: Use high-quality dark chocolate or semi-sweet chocolate chips for a rich and smooth coating.
  • 1 tablespoon sea salt: Coarse sea salt enhances the flavors of the bacon and chocolate, adding a delightful crunch.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Chocolate-Dipped Bacon with Sea Salt

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

  1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a wire rack.
  2. Lay out the bacon: Arrange the strips of bacon on the baking sheet in a single layer, making sure they don’t overlap.
  3. Bake until crispy: Cook the bacon for 15-20 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning. Once done, transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess grease and cool completely.

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate

  1. Break the chocolate into pieces: Place the dark chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl.
  2. Melt the chocolate: Microwave the chocolate in 20-30 second intervals, stirring between each interval, until smooth and fully melted. Alternatively, you can melt the chocolate using a double boiler on the stove.

Step 3: Dip the Bacon

  1. Dip each bacon strip: Once the bacon has cooled, dip each strip halfway into the melted chocolate. Let the excess chocolate drip off to create a clean, even coating.
  2. Place on parchment paper: Lay the chocolate-dipped bacon strips on a piece of parchment paper to set.

Step 4: Sprinkle with Sea Salt

  1. Add sea salt: While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the chocolate-covered portion of each bacon strip. The sea salt adds a crunchy texture and enhances the flavors.

Step 5: Let the Chocolate Set

  1. Cool and set: Allow the chocolate to harden at room temperature. If you’re in a hurry, place the bacon in the refrigerator for about 10-15 minutes to speed up the setting process.

Step 6: Serve

  1. Arrange and enjoy: Serve the chocolate-dipped bacon on a platter and watch it disappear quickly! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Tips for Perfect Chocolate-Dipped Bacon

1. Use High-Quality Chocolate

The quality of the chocolate makes a big difference in the final taste. Use a good-quality dark chocolate or semi-sweet chocolate that melts smoothly and has a rich flavor.

2. Pat the Bacon Dry

After cooking the bacon, make sure to pat it dry with paper towels to remove any excess grease. This helps the chocolate adhere better and ensures a clean, crisp coating.

3. Experiment with Toppings

While sea salt is a classic choice, you can get creative with other toppings. Try crushed nuts, chili flakes, shredded coconut, or even a drizzle of white chocolate for a unique twist.

4. Make It Spicy

For a spicy-sweet version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the melted chocolate before dipping the bacon. The heat pairs wonderfully with the rich chocolate and salty bacon.

5. Serve at Room Temperature

Chocolate-dipped bacon is best enjoyed at room temperature, as the chocolate will have the perfect texture and the bacon will stay crisp.

Nutritional Information

Per Serving (1 piece):

  • Calories: 120
  • Fat: 9g
  • Carbohydrates: 5g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Sodium: 250mg

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Variations of Chocolate-Dipped Bacon

This recipe is easily adaptable to suit different tastes. Here are some variations to try:

1. Use White or Milk Chocolate

If you prefer a sweeter treat, use white or milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate. White chocolate creates a striking visual contrast with the bacon, while milk chocolate adds a creamy sweetness.

2. Candied Bacon

For an extra-special twist, make candied bacon by coating the bacon strips with brown sugar before baking. The sugar caramelizes in the oven, creating a sweet and crunchy coating that pairs perfectly with the chocolate.

3. Add a Drizzle of Caramel

Drizzle caramel sauce over the chocolate-dipped bacon for a decadent, sweet-salty treat. The caramel adds an extra layer of flavor and a touch of elegance.

4. Sprinkle with Crushed Nuts

Add texture and flavor by sprinkling crushed nuts, such as pecans, almonds, or pistachios, over the chocolate before it sets. The nuts add a satisfying crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the bacon and chocolate.

5. Infuse the Chocolate

Add a drop of vanilla extract or a splash of bourbon to the melted chocolate for a unique flavor profile. The subtle notes of vanilla or bourbon add depth to the chocolate and make the treat even more indulgent.

Pairing Suggestions

Chocolate-Dipped Bacon with Sea Salt pairs well with a variety of drinks and accompaniments:

  • Serve with Red Wine: A bold red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, complements the rich chocolate and savory bacon.
  • Pair with Craft Beer: A stout or porter beer pairs wonderfully with the sweet and salty flavors of the bacon. The malty notes of the beer enhance the chocolate, creating a perfect balance.
  • Include on a Brunch Platter: Serve alongside fresh fruit, pastries, and mimosas for a luxurious brunch spread.
  • Pair with Whiskey: The smoky, caramel flavors of a good whiskey or bourbon pair beautifully with the chocolate-dipped bacon, making for a decadent and sophisticated treat.

Chocolate-Dipped Bacon with Sea Salt is a show-stopping snack that perfectly balances sweet, salty, and savory flavors. Whether you’re serving it at a brunch, party, or as a special treat for yourself, this indulgent dish is sure to be a hit. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.

Give this recipe a try and wow your guests with the ultimate sweet-and-savory combination!