Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts are a simple and tasty appetizer that combines crispy, smoky bacon with the crunchy, slightly sweet water chestnuts. The contrast between the savory bacon and the juicy, nutty center is what makes this snack so special. They’re a popular party treat that’s easy to prepare and always disappears quickly from the platter.
I love making these because they’re quick to throw together, and they never fail to get compliments. One little tip I’ve learned is to secure the bacon with a toothpick tightly, so it crisps up nicely without falling apart. Plus, you can add a little brown sugar or a drizzle of soy sauce to make the bacon taste even better and a bit caramelized.
Serving these warm straight from the oven is my favorite way, especially alongside some dipping sauce like barbecue or a simple sweet chili dip. They make a great finger food for family gatherings, or even just a fun snack to enjoy while watching a game. I always feel like they bring a cozy, crowd-pleasing vibe to any occasion.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Water chestnuts: These give a great crunch and mild sweetness. If you can’t find whole canned water chestnuts, you can try fresh ones peeled or even use peeled jicama for a similar crunch.
Bacon: I prefer thin sliced bacon for easier wrapping. Turkey bacon works if you want a lighter option, but it might not get as crispy or smoky.
Brown sugar: This adds a lovely caramelized sweetness. If you want less sweet, try using maple syrup or skip it altogether and just bake the bacon-wrapped chestnuts plain.
How Do You Get the Bacon Crispy Without Burning?
Cooking bacon wrapped around water chestnuts can be tricky since bacon cooks faster than the chestnuts need. Here’s my way:
- Use thin bacon slices cut in half so they wrap snugly.
- Pat the water chestnuts dry well so the bacon sticks better.
- Place them on a foil-lined sheet for easy cleanup and to catch drips.
- Bake at 375°F and turn halfway through to crisp all sides evenly.
- Watch closely near the end; bacon can go from crispy to burnt fast.
These tips help you get perfectly crispy bacon that’s not burnt and juicy water chestnuts inside every time!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – I like using a rimmed baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper to catch drips and make cleanup easy.
- Toothpicks – these are perfect for securing the bacon around the water chestnuts so they stay in place while baking.
- Knife and cutting board – you’ll use these to cut the bacon in half and prepare any toppings or additions.
- Measuring cups/spoons – for easy measurement of brown sugar and other optional ingredients.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Spicy kick: Add a sprinkle of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the brown sugar coating for some heat.
- Sweet and spicy: Mix some honey or maple syrup into the brown sugar for a richer flavor.
- Cheese twist: Place a small piece of cream cheese or cheddar inside each wrapped water chestnut for a creamy surprise.
- Herb flavor: Brush the bacon with a balsamic glaze or sprinkle with chopped herbs like thyme before baking for extra aroma and flavor.
Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 can (8 oz) whole water chestnuts, drained
- 12 slices bacon, cut in half
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- Toothpicks
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake, so plan for a total of around 40 minutes. It’s a quick and easy appetizer that’s perfect for parties or casual gatherings.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Oven and Water Chestnuts:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Drain the water chestnuts well and pat them dry with paper towels to help the bacon stick better.
2. Wrap the Water Chestnuts:
Take each water chestnut and wrap it tightly with a half slice of bacon. Secure the bacon in place with a toothpick so it doesn’t unravel while cooking.
3. Coat with Brown Sugar and Bake:
Roll each bacon-wrapped water chestnut in the brown sugar so they are evenly coated. Lay them on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup. Bake for 25-30 minutes, turning them once halfway through so they cook evenly and the bacon crisps up. Keep an eye on them in the last few minutes to avoid burning.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the bacon is crispy and caramelized, take them out of the oven and let them cool just a little bit. Serve warm for a delicious sweet and savory bite that’s sure to be a crowd pleaser!
Can I Use Frozen Water Chestnuts?
It’s best to use canned or fresh water chestnuts for this recipe, as frozen ones can be watery and affect the bacon’s crispiness. If you only have frozen, thaw them fully and pat dry before wrapping.
Can I Cook These in the Air Fryer?
Yes! Preheat your air fryer to 375°F and cook the bacon-wrapped water chestnuts for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through. Keep an eye on them to ensure the bacon crisps without burning.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or air fryer to keep the bacon crispy.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
You can assemble the bacon-wrapped water chestnuts and refrigerate them uncooked for up to a day in advance. Just bake them fresh when you’re ready to serve for the best texture.