🍫 Dark Chocolate-Sea Salt Bacon Twists (12-Min Bake) – Sweet, Salty, Smoky Gourmet Appetizer

Ingredients

• • 24 (1/2-inch) strips center-cut bacon
• • 3 ⅞ oz high-quality dark chocolate (70% cacao or higher)
• • 1 ⅞ tsp flaky sea salt
• • ⅞ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
• • ⅞ tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
• • ⅞ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• • ⅞ tsp pure vanilla extract

Instructions

1. 1

   Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lay bacon strips in a single layer, ensuring they don't overlap. For extra crispiness, chill the bacon in the freezer for 15 minutes before brushing.

2. 2

   In a small bowl, mix melted dark chocolate with vanilla extract. Using a pastry brush, gently coat both sides of each bacon strip. Sprinkle sea salt evenly over the chocolate-coated bacon. For added flavor, mix in smoked paprika, cinnamon, or cayenne into the chocolate before brushing.

3. 3

   Place in preheated oven and bake for 12 minutes, or until bacon is crisp and chocolate is lightly caramelized. Rotate the baking sheet halfway through for even cooking. Watch closely to prevent burning.

4. 4

   Let cool for 5 minutes on a wire rack. For best results, serve immediately. If making ahead, store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 hours.