Million Dollar Bacon Goat Cheese Appetizer Log – The Ultimate Party Showstopper
Prepare the viral Million Dollar Bacon Goat Cheese Log! Creamy goat cheese rolled in crispy bacon and herbs. This make-ahead appetizer will be the hit of every party!
What is Million Dollar Bacon Goat Cheese Appetizer Log?
The Million Dollar Bacon Goat Cheese Appetizer Log is a luxurious, crowd-pleasing appetizer that combines creamy goat cheese with crispy bacon and fresh herbs, all rolled into an elegant log shape. This viral TikTok sensation gets its name from the rich, indulgent flavors that taste like a million bucks! The contrast of tangy goat cheese, smoky bacon, and aromatic herbs creates an irresistible combination that’s perfect for holidays, parties, or any time you want to impress your guests.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare up to 2 days in advance
- Crowd Pleaser: Appeals to all taste preferences
- Easy Assembly: No cooking skills required
- Elegant Presentation: Looks impressive on any spread
- Customizable: Easy to adapt with different herbs and add-ins
- Budget-Friendly Luxury: Affordable ingredients that taste expensive
Ingredients
For the Cheese Base:
- 16 oz goat cheese, softened to room temperature
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
For the Bacon Coating:
- 12-14 strips thick-cut bacon
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1/2 teaspoon cracked black pepper
Optional Add-ins:
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 tablespoons capers, drained and chopped
- 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts, chopped
- 1 tablespoon honey (for slight sweetness)
For Serving:
- Assorted crackers (water crackers, baguette slices, etc.)
- Fresh fruit (grapes, figs, pears)
- Nuts (walnuts, pecans)
- Honey for drizzling
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes (bacon)
Chill Time: 2+ hours
Total Time: 2 hours 32 minutes
Serves: 12-15 people
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C)
- Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper
- Arrange bacon strips in single layer without overlapping
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until crispy but not too brittle
- Transfer to paper towels to drain and cool completely
- Once cool, chop bacon into small, uniform pieces
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine softened goat cheese and cream cheese
- Mix with electric mixer or wooden spoon until smooth and well combined
- Add minced garlic, chives, thyme, salt, and pepper
- Mix until herbs are evenly distributed
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed
Step 3: Shape the Log
- Lay out a large piece of plastic wrap on clean surface
- Spoon cheese mixture onto center of plastic wrap
- Use plastic wrap to help shape mixture into a log about 8 inches long
- Wrap tightly and twist ends to seal
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to firm up
Step 4: Prepare the Coating
- On a large plate or shallow dish, combine chopped bacon
- Add fresh parsley, chives, thyme, and cracked pepper
- Mix coating ingredients until evenly distributed
- Spread mixture evenly across the plate
Step 5: Coat the Log
- Remove cheese log from refrigerator and unwrap
- Gently roll the log in the bacon-herb mixture
- Press mixture into the cheese to help it adhere
- Ensure entire log is evenly coated
- Transfer to serving platter
Step 6: Final Chill and Serve
- Refrigerate coated log for additional 30 minutes to set
- Remove 15 minutes before serving to soften slightly
- Arrange crackers and accompaniments around the log
- Provide cheese knives for spreading
- Drizzle with honey if desired
Pro Tips and Variations
Pro Tips:
- Room Temperature Cheese: Ensure cheese is fully softened for smooth mixing
- Don’t Overcook Bacon: Crispy but not brittle bacon coats better
- Uniform Chopping: Finely chop all ingredients for even distribution
- Plastic Wrap Technique: Use plastic wrap to shape log without getting hands messy
- Chill Time Matters: Proper chilling ensures the log holds its shape
- Advance Preparation: Tastes even better after flavors meld overnight
Recipe Variations:
Sweet and Savory: Add chopped dried cranberries and toasted pecans
Mediterranean Style: Include sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and fresh basil
Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños and cayenne pepper
Nut-Crusted: Roll in chopped toasted walnuts or pistachios instead of just bacon
Holiday Spiced: Add pinch of nutmeg and fresh rosemary
Smoked Salmon: Replace half the bacon with chopped smoked salmon
Vegetarian Option: Omit bacon and use toasted nuts, seeds, and extra herbs
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Storage:
- Refrigerator: Store wrapped for up to 5 days
- Freezer: Can freeze for up to 1 month (thaw overnight before serving)
Make-Ahead Timeline:
- 2 Days Before: Make complete log, wrap, and refrigerate
- Day Before: Shape cheese log, coat with bacon mixture
- Day Of: Remove from fridge 15 minutes before serving
Transportation Tips:
- Cooler: Transport in cooler with ice packs
- Serving Tray: Place on serving tray before final coating
- Backup Coating: Bring extra bacon-herb mixture for touch-ups
Leftover Ideas:
- Spread on Bagels: Use as cream cheese substitute
- Pasta Sauce: Melt into hot pasta with a splash of pasta water
- Stuffed Chicken: Use as filling for chicken breasts
- Grilled Cheese: Spread on bread for gourmet grilled cheese
