Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts

Sticky, smoky, salty, sweet, and just a little spicy—this updated classic is guaranteed to steal the show at any gathering. It's a retro party bite with a modern kick!

Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnut

Why it's on our list

This appetizer is a true throwback to Momma Ashley’s legendary entertaining days in the 70s and 80s. She used to serve these sweet-and-savory bites at cocktail parties, and we vividly remember eating as we could as kids. To give the dish a modern twist, we swapped in smoky duck bacon and added a drizzle of hot honey for just the right kick. The result? A nostalgic favorite with a fresh update that’s still just as addictive.

Ingredients

• 2 cans whole water chestnuts, drained

• 1/2 cup soy sauce

• 1/2 cup brown sugar

• 1 lb bacon (we love duck bacon but any bacon will work)

• Hot honey, for drizzling

• Toothpicks, for serving

Directions

Marinate the Chestnuts

• Place drained water chestnuts in a bowl and cover with soy sauce.

• Marinate for 1 hour, then drain well.

Coat in Brown Sugar

• Roll each chestnut in brown sugar until fully coated.

Wrap with Bacon

• Cut bacon slices into thirds (or halves, depending on size).

• Wrap one piece of bacon around each chestnut and secure with a toothpick.

Bake

• Preheat oven to 400°F.

• Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top. Arrange the bacon-wrapped chestnuts on the rack so the heat circulates evenly and the excess fat drips down onto the pan. This helps the bacon crisp up without sitting in oil.

• Bake for 25–30 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through, until bacon is crisp and caramelized.

Finish & Serve

• Remove from oven and let cool slightly.

• Drizzle generously with hot honey before serving.

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Serve it up!