Few appetizers deliver instant excitement like crispy bacon mozzarella poppers with sweet maple glaze. Each bite combines smoky bacon, stretchy melted mozzarella, and a glossy maple finish that hits the perfect sweet-and-savory balance. These poppers are quick to prepare, easy to bake, and guaranteed to disappear fast—whether you’re hosting a party, planning game-day snacks, or treating yourself to something indulgent.

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Crunchy on the outside, gooey in the center, and boldly flavored, this recipe turns simple ingredients into a show-stopping appetizer everyone will crave again.

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Ingredients

Thick-cut bacon
Fresh mozzarella balls (small size)
Panko breadcrumbs
Pure maple syrup
Unsalted butter
Garlic powder

Instructions for Crispy Bacon Mozzarella Poppers

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Wrap the cheese by tightly wrapping one slice of bacon around each mozzarella ball. Secure with toothpicks if needed.
Coat for crunch by rolling each bacon-wrapped mozzarella ball in panko breadcrumbs until evenly coated.
Bake the poppers for 15–20 minutes, turning once, until the bacon is golden and crispy.
Make the glaze by melting butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in maple syrup and garlic powder. Simmer for 2 minutes.
Serve warm and drizzle generously with the sweet maple glaze.

Pro Tips

Pat mozzarella dry before wrapping to prevent soggy poppers
Place poppers seam-side down for even browning
Let them cool slightly before serving to avoid cheese spills

Why This Recipe Works

Perfect balance of salty, sweet, and creamy flavors
Minimal ingredients with maximum impact
Baked instead of fried for easier cleanup
Ideal for parties, holidays, and casual gatherings

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Substitutions & Variations

Swap mozzarella with pepper jack for a spicy kick
Use honey instead of maple syrup for a floral sweetness
Add cayenne or smoked paprika to the breadcrumbs
Try turkey bacon for a lighter option

Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheating Guide

Make-Ahead: Assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F until crispy again

Serving Ideas for Crispy Bacon Mozzarella Poppers

Pair with fresh salads for contrast
Serve alongside sliders or wings
Add to appetizer platters for parties
Enjoy with dipping sauces like ranch or spicy aioli

Nutrition (Per Serving Estimate)

Calories: 120
Protein: 7g
Carbohydrates: 6g
Fat: 8g
Sodium: 350mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I air fry these poppers?
Yes, cook at 375°F for about 10–12 minutes, turning halfway.

Can I freeze bacon mozzarella poppers?
Yes, freeze unbaked poppers and bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.

What keeps the cheese from leaking out?
Tightly wrapping the bacon and fully coating with breadcrumbs helps seal in the cheese.

Are these good for meal prep?
They’re best fresh but reheat well in the oven for short-term prep.

These crispy bacon mozzarella poppers with sweet maple glaze are the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer. With their crunchy exterior, melty center, and irresistible glaze, they turn any occasion into something special. Easy to customize and even easier to love, this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your snack rotation.