Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts are a fantastic bite-sized snack that combines crispy, smoky bacon with the crunchy, slightly sweet snap of water chestnuts. These little bundles are easy to grab, full of flavor, and perfect for any occasion where finger foods are a hit. The bacon crisps up beautifully around the water chestnuts, creating a delightful mix of textures that always gets people reaching for more.
I love making these because they’re so quick to prepare and cook, but they always feel special. I usually secure each water chestnut with a toothpick, wrap it tightly with bacon, and then bake until the bacon gets that perfect crunch. It’s one of those simple recipes where the ingredients do all the work, and I get to enjoy the praise when they disappear fast from the serving plate.
When I serve these at parties or family gatherings, I like to have some dipping sauces on the side—like a splash of soy sauce or a bit of spicy mayo—to add another layer of flavor. They’re a great finger food that everyone can enjoy, and I’ve found they make a great appetizer to bring people together before the main meal. These bacon wrapped water chestnuts always remind me that the simplest things can be the most fun to share!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Water Chestnuts: These add a great crunchy texture. If you want a similar crunch but can’t find water chestnuts, try peeled, cooked baby potatoes or jicama slices for a fresh alternative.
Bacon: Thin slices work best because they wrap easier and get crispy without overcooking. For a leaner option, turkey bacon can be used, but it won’t be quite as crispy or smoky.
Brown Sugar & Soy Sauce: These create the sweet and salty glaze that balances the flavors. If you’re watching sugar, honey or maple syrup are good options, and tamari makes a gluten-free substitute for soy sauce.
Dijon Mustard (optional): Adds a mild tang that lifts the glaze. You can skip it if you prefer a simpler taste or swap for spicy mustard if you like more kick.
How Do You Get Perfectly Crispy Bacon Wrapped Around a Water Chestnut?
Bacon needs to be crispy but not burnt, and the water chestnut inside should stay crunchy. Here’s how I do it:
- Use a wire rack on a foil-lined baking sheet so air circulates and bacon crisps evenly.
- Wrap the bacon tightly so it holds around the water chestnut but isn’t too thick in any spot.
- Brush glaze before and halfway through cooking to build up that sticky, caramelized layer.
- Turn the pieces during baking to avoid burnt edges and get an even color all around.
- Keep an eye on cooking time—25 to 30 minutes usually hits the sweet spot for crispness without dryness.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet with a wire rack – I like it because it helps the bacon crisp up evenly and prevents it from sitting in grease.
- Small mixing bowl – perfect for whisking together the glaze ingredients like soy sauce and brown sugar.
- Toothpicks – easy to secure the bacon around the water chestnuts so they stay in place during baking.
- Kitchen tongs – helpful for turning and removing the bacon-wrapped water chestnuts safely and neatly.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Spicy kick: brush with sriracha mixed into the glaze for a touch of heat that pairs well with the sweetness.
- Cheese surprise: add a small piece of cream cheese or shredded cheddar inside the water chestnut before wrapping for extra richness.
- Extra flavor: sprinkle with black pepper, smoked paprika, or garlic powder before baking for added depth.
- Sweet upgrade: drizzle with honey or maple syrup after baking for an extra gloss and sweetness.
Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 can (8 oz) whole water chestnuts, drained and patted dry
- 1 pound thinly sliced bacon, cut into thirds
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- Toothpicks, for securing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 25-30 minutes to bake. You’ll spend a few minutes wrapping the water chestnuts with bacon and brushing on the glaze, then the oven does most of the work until the bacon is crispy and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Get Your Oven Ready:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup, then set a wire rack on top. The rack helps the bacon wrap crisp evenly without sitting in grease.
2. Make the Sweet and Savory Glaze:
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard (if you’re using it). This glaze adds a tasty, sticky coating that caramelizes beautifully during baking.
3. Wrap and Secure:
Take each water chestnut and wrap a bacon strip piece around it. Secure the bacon with a toothpick to keep it snug during cooking.
4. Arrange and Glaze:
Place the bacon-wrapped water chestnuts on the wire rack in a single layer. Brush each one generously with the glaze you made earlier, making sure they are well-coated.
5. Bake to Crispy Perfection:
Bake for about 25-30 minutes. Halfway through, carefully turn them over with tongs and brush with more glaze. This helps them cook evenly and get that gorgeous caramelized finish.
6. Cool and Serve:
Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes so the glaze can set up. Then serve warm as an irresistible finger food that everyone will love!
Can I Use Frozen Water Chestnuts for This Recipe?
Yes, but be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry to avoid extra moisture, which can prevent the bacon from crisping properly.
Can I Prepare These Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can wrap the water chestnuts in bacon and brush with glaze, then refrigerate for up to a day. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking straight from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through and crispy again.
What’s a Good Dipping Sauce to Serve With These?
Try a simple soy sauce dip, spicy mayo, or a sweet chili sauce to complement the sweet and savory flavors of the bacon-wrapped water chestnuts.
