Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts are a perfect little appetizer that’s crispy, juicy, and just a bit crunchy all at once. The salty smokiness of the bacon pairs so well with the mild, slightly sweet crunch of the water chestnuts, creating a bite-sized treat that’s hard to resist. They’re often glazed with a sticky sauce that adds a nice sweet and tangy touch.
I love making these for parties or holiday gatherings because they’re always a crowd-pleaser. They’re so easy to prepare, too—just wrap those water chestnuts in bacon, secure with a toothpick, and bake until golden and crispy. I find that brushing them with a little BBQ sauce or a homemade glaze halfway through baking really takes them up a notch.
When I serve these, I like to arrange them on a pretty platter and maybe add a small bowl of dipping sauce on the side for anyone who wants an extra burst of flavor. They’re the kind of snack that disappears fast, and I always end up sneaking a few before the guests even arrive!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Water Chestnuts: These give the recipe its crunch and mild sweetness. If you can’t find canned water chestnuts, fresh ones work too—they just need a quick peel and rinse.
Bacon: Regular bacon is best for crispiness and flavor. You can swap for turkey bacon if you want a lighter option, but it won’t be as crispy or rich.
Brown Sugar & Soy Sauce: These make a tasty glaze that balances sweet and salty. If you prefer, use honey or maple syrup instead of brown sugar, and tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for gluten-free.
How Do You Get Bacon Extra Crispy Without Burning It?
Crisp bacon wraps are the heart of this recipe. Here’s how to nail it every time:
- Use a wire rack on a baking sheet so heat circulates all around the bacon.
- Wrap the bacon snugly but not too tight around the chestnuts to let heat reach all sides.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) to get crispy edges without burning.
- Turn the pieces halfway through cooking for even crispiness.
- Keep an eye on the glaze step—too much sugar too early can burn the bacon.
Following these tips helps you achieve crunchy bacon that’s a perfect match for the soft water chestnuts inside.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet with a wire rack – I use this to let the heat circulate and make the bacon extra crispy.
- Toothpicks – they hold the bacon around the water chestnuts securely during baking.
- Small mixing bowl – perfect for mixing the glaze if you’re using one.
- Oven mitts – keep your hands safe when handling hot sheets and racks.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap brown sugar for honey or maple syrup for a different sweetness and caramelization.
- Add a splash of hot sauce or sriracha to the glaze for some spicy heat.
- Use turkey bacon for a lighter, leaner wrap, but keep in mind it won’t crisp up as much.
- Stir in a sprinkle of sesame seeds or chopped green onions after baking for extra flavor and crunch.
Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 can (8 oz) whole water chestnuts, drained and patted dry
- 12 slices of bacon, cut in half crosswise
- Toothpicks for securing
For the Optional Sweet & Savory Glaze:
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 35 minutes to bake, for a total of about 45 minutes. You’ll spend a few minutes wrapping the water chestnuts in bacon and another half hour baking until the bacon is crispy and the glaze caramelized.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Get Ready to Cook:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup, then place a wire rack on top. The wire rack helps the bacon cook evenly and get nice and crispy all over.
2. Wrap the Water Chestnuts:
Take each water chestnut and wrap it tightly with a half slice of bacon. Secure the bacon with a toothpick to keep it from unraveling during cooking.
3. Make the Glaze (Optional):
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and soy sauce until the sugar dissolves. This glaze will add a lovely sweet and savory flavor to your bites.
4. Arrange and Bake:
Place the wrapped water chestnuts in a single layer on the wire rack. Bake them for about 20 minutes, then carefully turn each piece over using tongs or a fork.
5. Add the Glaze and Finish Baking:
Brush the glaze over each bacon-wrapped water chestnut if you’re using it. Bake for another 10-15 minutes until the bacon is crispy and the glaze has caramelized, watching closely to prevent burning.
6. Cool and Serve:
Remove from the oven and let the bites cool for a few minutes to let the bacon crisp up just a bit more. Serve warm and enjoy these delicious finger foods as a snack or party appetizer!
Can I Use Frozen Water Chestnuts for This Recipe?
It’s best to use canned or fresh water chestnuts for this recipe. If using frozen, thaw them completely and pat dry to avoid soggy bacon.
Can I Prepare Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts Ahead of Time?
Yes! Assemble the wrapped water chestnuts and keep them refrigerated on a baking sheet until you’re ready to bake. Bake just before serving for the crispiest results.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) to keep the bacon crispy.
What Can I Serve with Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts?
They’re great on their own as finger food, but also pair nicely with dipping sauces like ranch, spicy mayo, or honey mustard for extra flavor.
