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Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Water Chestnuts with Sweet Glaze

bacon-wrapped water chestnuts - featured image
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These crispy bacon-wrapped water chestnuts are a classic party appetizer featuring crunchy water chestnuts wrapped in smoky bacon and finished with a sticky-sweet glaze. Quick to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser, they’re perfect for gatherings, game days, or holiday spreads.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cans (8 ounces each) whole water chestnuts, drained and rinsed
  • 1 pound regular cut bacon
  • 1 cup packed brown sugar (light or dark)
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari/coconut aminos for gluten-free)
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 36 toothpicks (soaked in water for 10 minutes)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil and parchment paper.
  2. Drain and rinse water chestnuts. Pat dry with paper towels.
  3. Cut bacon into thirds crosswise.
  4. Wrap each water chestnut with a piece of bacon and secure with a soaked toothpick. Place seam side down on the baking sheet.
  5. Bake for 20 minutes, until bacon starts to brown but is not fully crisp. Flip halfway through if not using a wire rack.
  6. While baking, whisk together brown sugar, soy sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper in a small bowl until smooth.
  7. Remove tray from oven. Brush each bacon-wrapped water chestnut generously with glaze, turning to coat all sides.
  8. Return to oven and bake for another 10–15 minutes, until bacon is crisp and glaze is bubbling and sticky. Watch closely to avoid burning.
  9. Optional: Broil on high for 1–2 minutes for extra crunch.
  10. Let cool for a few minutes, then transfer to a serving platter. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

For gluten-free, use tamari or coconut aminos and check Worcestershire sauce. Pat water chestnuts dry for crispier bacon. Double bake ensures perfect texture. Broil briefly for extra crunch. Can be made ahead and finished before serving. Try adding pineapple or smoked paprika for a twist.

Nutrition

Keywords: bacon-wrapped water chestnuts, party appetizer, sweet glaze, easy appetizer, holiday snack, gluten-free option, crowd-pleaser, finger food

Find it online: https://fuzzyforker.com/crispy-bacon-wrapped-water-chestnuts-recipe-easy-sweet-glaze-party-appetizer/