Print

Easy Warm Bacon Fig Jam Crostini Bites

bacon fig jam crostini bites - featured image
Print Recipe

These lighter warm bacon fig jam crostini bites are sweet, savory, and perfect for entertaining. Made with fresh Black Mission figs, turkey bacon, and a creamy cheese spread, they’re a crowd-pleasing appetizer that comes together in about 25 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12–15 fresh Black Mission figs, stems removed and quartered
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, plus extra for garnish
  • Pinch of sea salt
  • 6 slices turkey bacon (or regular bacon)
  • 1 small loaf whole wheat or sourdough baguette, sliced into 24 thin rounds (about 1/2 inch thick)
  • Olive oil spray, for brushing the bread
  • 4 ounces reduced-fat cream cheese, softened
  • 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
  • 2 ounces crumbled goat cheese (optional)
  • 1 cup arugula

Instructions

  1. Make the fig jam: In a small saucepan, combine the quartered figs, honey, balsamic vinegar, and fresh thyme. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the figs break down and the mixture thickens—about 10 to 12 minutes. Mash the figs gently with the back of your spoon as they cook. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
  2. Cook the bacon: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lay the turkey bacon slices in a single layer. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the bacon is crispy and golden. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain, then crumble or chop into small pieces.
  3. Toast the crostini: While the bacon cooks, arrange the baguette slices on the same or another baking sheet. Lightly spray or brush each slice with olive oil. Toast in the oven for about 5 to 7 minutes, until the edges are golden and the bread is crisp. Flip them halfway through for even toasting.
  4. Make the cheese spread: In a small bowl, mix together the softened reduced-fat cream cheese and Greek yogurt until smooth and creamy.
  5. Assemble the crostini: Spread a small amount of the cheese mixture onto each toasted baguette slice. Top with a small spoonful of the warm fig jam. Sprinkle with crumbled bacon and, if using, a little crumbled goat cheese. Garnish with fresh arugula and a few extra thyme leaves.
  6. Serve immediately: These are best enjoyed warm, while the jam is still sticky and the bread is crunchy.

Notes

The jam will thicken more as it cools. You can prep the jam, bacon, and cheese spread a day ahead and assemble just before serving. Keep components separate in the fridge and let them come to room temperature before assembling.

Nutrition

Keywords: fig jam, crostini, bacon, appetizer, party food, fig, turkey bacon, easy appetizer

Find it online: https://lucastable.com/easy-warm-bacon-fig-jam-crostini-bites/