Growing up, my grandma had a knack for turning simple ingredients into absolute showstoppers. Her famous bacon-wrapped pickle spears with cream cheese were always the talk of the party, and I can still remember the look on my cousin’s face when he took his first bite. The salty-tangy flavor of the pickles, the crispy bacon, and the creamy, herby filling – it was a flavor explosion that had us all begging for seconds (and thirds!).
As I got older and started hosting gatherings of my own, I knew I had to master this recipe. After countless experiments and a few hiccups along the way, I’ve finally perfected the art of making bacon-wrapped pickle spears with cream cheese. And let me tell you, this dish is an absolute game-changer. It’s the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and a little bit of heat – and it’s guaranteed to be the hit of any party or gathering.
Why This Bacon-Wrapped Pickle Spears with Cream Cheese Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Bacon-Wrapped Pickle Spears with Cream Cheese
The secret to making these bacon-wrapped pickle spears with cream cheese truly exceptional lies in the attention to detail. From the perfectly seasoned cream cheese filling to the crispy, golden-brown bacon, every element is carefully crafted to create a harmonious flavor profile that will have your guests raving.
The key is in the preparation and cooking method. By par-cooking the bacon before wrapping it around the pickle spears, you ensure that it crisps up beautifully in the oven without overcooking the delicate pickles. And the cream cheese filling? Well, that’s where the real magic happens. The combination of fresh dill, garlic powder, and onion powder elevates the creamy base, creating a flavor that perfectly complements the tangy pickles and salty bacon.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
To make these bacon-wrapped pickle spears with cream cheese, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients:
- 12 pickle spears: These are the star of the show, providing the perfect balance of tangy and crunchy.
- 12 slices of bacon: The crispy, savory bacon is the perfect pairing for the pickles, adding a delightful smoky note.
- 4 ounces of cream cheese, softened: The creamy filling is the glue that holds this dish together, providing a rich and indulgent contrast to the pickles and bacon.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill: This fresh herb adds a lovely herbal aroma and flavor, complementing the tangy pickles beautifully.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: A subtle hint of garlic adds depth and complexity to the cream cheese filling.
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder: Similarly, the onion powder enhances the overall savory notes of the dish.
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): For those who love a little bit of heat, the cayenne pepper adds a delightful kick.
Step-by-Step Bacon-Wrapped Pickle Spears with Cream Cheese Instructions
Preparing Your Bacon-Wrapped Pickle Spears with Cream Cheese
Prep time for this recipe is 15 minutes, and cook time is 20 minutes, for a total time of 35 minutes. You’ll need a baking sheet, a mixing bowl, and a small spoon or knife for assembling.
1- Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped fresh dill, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix until the ingredients are well incorporated and the filling is smooth and creamy.
3- Spread about 1 tablespoon of the cream cheese filling onto each pickle spear, ensuring that the filling covers the entire surface of the pickle.
4- Wrap a slice of bacon around each filled pickle spear, securing it with a toothpick if needed.
5- Arrange the bacon-wrapped pickle spears on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are not touching.
6- Bake the bacon-wrapped pickle spears for 20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the filling is hot and bubbly. Carefully remove the toothpicks before serving.
Pro Tips for Success
1- For the crispiest bacon, be sure to par-cook the slices for a few minutes before wrapping them around the pickles. This helps the bacon render its fat and get that irresistible crunch.
2- When spreading the cream cheese filling, use a small spoon or knife to ensure an even, generous coating on each pickle spear. This will prevent any gaps or dry spots.
3- If you’re having trouble getting the bacon to stay wrapped around the pickles, try securing it with a toothpick. Just be sure to remove the toothpicks before serving.
4- Experiment with different types of pickles to find your favorite! Dill, garlic, or even spicy pickles can all work beautifully in this recipe.
Serving and Storing Your Bacon-Wrapped Pickle Spears with Cream Cheese
Perfect Pairings for Bacon-Wrapped Pickle Spears with Cream Cheese
These bacon-wrapped pickle spears with cream cheese are the perfect appetizer or snack for any occasion. They pair beautifully with a crisp, chilled white wine or an ice-cold beer. For a heartier meal, serve them alongside a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded and satisfying spread.
Since this recipe makes 12 servings, it’s the perfect dish to share at your next party, game-day gathering, or potluck. Your guests are sure to be impressed by the creative flavor combination and the impressive presentation.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Bacon-wrapped pickle spears with cream cheese are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but you can definitely make them ahead of time. For refrigerator storage, simply store the assembled, uncooked spears in an airtight container for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, bake them according to the instructions.
If you’d like to make them even further in advance, you can freeze the uncooked, assembled spears. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, simply bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
To reheat leftover bacon-wrapped pickle spears, simply place them on a baking sheet and warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through and the bacon is crispy.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Bacon-Wrapped Pickle Spears with Cream Cheese
Creative Bacon-Wrapped Pickle Spears with Cream Cheese Variations
Looking to switch things up? Here are a few delicious variations to try:
- Spicy Bacon-Wrapped Pickle Spears: Add a teaspoon of sriracha or your favorite hot sauce to the cream cheese filling for a fiery twist.
- Bacon-Wrapped Pickle Spears with Honey Mustard: Mix a couple tablespoons of honey and Dijon mustard into the cream cheese filling.
- Bacon-Wrapped Pickle Spears with Herbed Cream Cheese: Experiment with different fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or thyme in the filling.
- Bacon-Wrapped Pickle Spears with Bacon Jam: Top the cream cheese-filled pickles with a spoonful of savory, sweet bacon jam.
Making Bacon-Wrapped Pickle Spears with Cream Cheese Diet-Friendly
To make this recipe more diet-friendly, you can try a few simple substitutions:
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free bacon and make sure the pickles are also gluten-free.
- For a low-carb or keto-friendly version, use dill pickle spears instead of regular pickles, and substitute the cream cheese with a keto-friendly cream cheese alternative.
- To make it vegan, use plant-based bacon and a dairy-free cream cheese substitute. You can also try using roasted and seasoned tofu or tempeh in place of the bacon.
No matter which dietary variation you choose, the key is to keep the flavors bold and the presentation just as impressive as the original.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of pickle besides the spears?
A: Absolutely! You can use a variety of pickle shapes and sizes, such as chips, coins, or halves. Just adjust the amount of cream cheese filling accordingly.
Q: How long do the bacon-wrapped pickle spears take to make?
A: This recipe has a total time of 35 minutes – 15 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cook time.
Q: Can I make the bacon-wrapped pickle spears ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the spears ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking. You can also freeze the uncooked, assembled spears for up to 3 months.
Q: How many servings does this recipe make?
A: This recipe makes 12 servings of bacon-wrapped pickle spears with cream cheese.
Q: What should I do if the bacon isn’t crisping up properly?
A: If the bacon isn’t getting crispy enough, try par-cooking the slices for a few minutes before wrapping them around the pickles. You can also broil the spears for 1-2 minutes at the end to help the bacon get extra crispy.
Conclusion
Bacon-Wrapped Pickle Spears with Cream Cheese are the ultimate party appetizer – they’re salty, tangy, creamy, and absolutely irresistible. With their impressive presentation and addictive flavor, it’s no wonder this recipe has become a go-to for gatherings and celebrations.
Now that you have all the tips and tricks for making these bacon-wrapped wonders, I encourage you to give them a try. Whether you’re hosting a game-day bash or looking for a crowd-pleasing snack, these spears are sure to be the star of the show. So grab those pickles, fry up some bacon, and get ready to wow your guests with this flavor-packed masterpiece. Bon appétit!
