Chili Bacon Crunch Cream Cheese (Print Version)

Creamy cheese meets crisp bacon and chili crunch for a savory, crowd-pleasing party dip.

# Ingredients:

→ Dairy

01 - 8 ounces cream cheese, softened (use reduced-fat if preferred)

→ Meat

02 - 4 slices thick-cut bacon (substitute turkey bacon for a lighter option)

→ Condiments and Sauces

03 - 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
04 - 2 tablespoons soy sauce (use tamari for gluten-free version)

→ Crunch Topping

05 - 1/2 cup chili onion crunch (alternatively, use homemade version)

→ Herbs and Aromatics

06 - 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped (or green onions)

→ Flavorings

07 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional for savory applications)
08 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder (sauté fresh garlic as an alternative)
09 - 1 teaspoon onion powder
10 - 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus extra for garnish

→ Serving

11 - Crackers of choice (buttery or rice-based recommended)

# Steps:

01 - Place bacon slices in a cold skillet and cook over medium heat for 7 to 10 minutes, turning as needed, until crispy. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain.
02 - Using the same skillet, sauté chopped chives for 5 minutes until softened and fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.
03 - In a small saucepan, combine maple syrup, soy sauce, and vanilla extract. Simmer gently over low heat for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally until slightly thickened.
04 - Crumble the cooked bacon and stir it into the saucepan along with garlic powder and onion powder. Continue simmering for 10 minutes to infuse flavors.
05 - Allow cream cheese to come to room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes until it is soft and spreadable.
06 - Spread the softened cream cheese evenly in a shallow serving dish. Top with chili onion crunch, distributing it evenly across the surface.
07 - Pour the warm bacon-maple mixture over the chili onion crunch layer. Garnish with additional chives and a pinch of black pepper. Serve immediately with crackers.

# Notes:

01 - Let cream cheese reach room temperature for easier spreading and optimal texture.

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