Crispy Bacon Heart Roses
A simple and fun recipe to create crispy bacon shaped into romantic heart roses, perfect for Valentine’s Day or special occasions. These bacon roses are crispy on the edges with a tender, smoky center and make a charming edible gift or breakfast centerpiece.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 bacon heart roses
- Category: Breakfast, Snack
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- Thick-cut bacon strips (recommended brands: Hormel or Wright)
- Wooden skewers or toothpicks (to hold the bacon in rose shape)
- Non-stick cooking spray or parchment paper (for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking)
- Optional: Maple syrup or brown sugar (for a sweet glaze twist)
- Optional: Black pepper or smoked paprika (to add a little kick)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Lightly spray with non-stick cooking spray if desired.
- Take two strips of bacon. Fold each lengthwise in half to give thickness and sturdiness.
- Curve each strip gently into a half-heart shape, pinching the ends together.
- Overlap the bottom ends and secure with a wooden skewer (about 2–3 inches long) to hold the shape.
- Place your shaped bacon hearts upright on the baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart to allow even cooking.
- If desired, brush the bacon lightly with maple syrup or sprinkle brown sugar and pepper for a sweet-spicy kick.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, checking at 20 minutes to ensure bacon isn’t burning. Rotate the pan if oven heats unevenly. Bacon should be crispy on edges but tender inside.
- Remove from oven and transfer bacon roses to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Let cool for a few minutes to firm up.
- Serve warm or wrap in cellophane as a charming edible gift.
Notes
Use thick-cut bacon for best structure and crispiness. Do not overcrowd the pan to ensure even cooking. Check bacon at 20 minutes to avoid burning. Secure skewers firmly to maintain shape. Drain excess grease on paper towels after baking. For a leaner option, use turkey bacon but expect less crispiness. To reduce sodium, rinse bacon briefly before cooking. Avoid microwaving leftovers to maintain crispiness; reheat in oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bacon heart rose
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 0.2
- Sodium: 350
- Fat: 7
- Saturated Fat: 2.5
- Carbohydrates: 0.5
- Protein: 5
Keywords: bacon, crispy bacon, heart shaped bacon, Valentine's Day recipe, bacon roses, breakfast, edible gift, easy bacon recipe