Crispy Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts
Crispy Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts are a quick and easy party appetizer featuring crunchy water chestnuts wrapped in caramelized bacon and glazed with a sweet-savory sauce. Perfect for gatherings, these bites deliver irresistible texture and flavor with minimal effort.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 cans (8 oz each) whole water chestnuts, drained and patted dry
- 16 slices bacon (about 1 lb), cut in half crosswise
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low-sodium optional)
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Toothpicks (for securing)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and set a wire rack on top if using. Soak toothpicks in water for 10 minutes.
- Drain and pat dry water chestnuts with paper towels.
- Cut bacon slices in half crosswise to make 32 pieces.
- Wrap each water chestnut with a piece of bacon and secure with a soaked toothpick.
- In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper until sugar dissolves.
- Brush each wrapped chestnut with glaze, reserving some for basting later.
- Arrange bites seam-side down on wire rack or baking sheet. Bake for 20 minutes (flip halfway if not using rack).
- Brush remaining glaze over each bite and bake another 8–10 minutes, until bacon is golden and crispy. Optional: Broil for 1–2 minutes for extra caramelization.
- Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain. Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
For best results, use a wire rack to crisp bacon evenly. Pat water chestnuts very dry before wrapping. Soak toothpicks to prevent burning. Glaze in two stages for maximum caramelization. For gluten-free, use tamari or coconut aminos. Turkey bacon or vegetarian alternatives can be used, but adjust bake time. Serve hot for peak crispiness. Can be assembled ahead and baked before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2–3 bites
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 8
- Sodium: 350
- Fat: 8
- Saturated Fat: 3
- Carbohydrates: 10
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 4
Keywords: bacon wrapped water chestnuts, party appetizer, easy appetizer, holiday snack, finger food, bacon, water chestnuts, game day, crowd pleaser, gluten-free option