Maple-Bacon Wrapped Turkey Bombs Recipe Best Candied Bites

Maple-bacon wrapped turkey breast bombs are the ultimate sweet-and-savory treat that will make your taste buds dance! Picture this: tender turkey breast wrapped in crispy bacon, glazed with sticky maple syrup, and baked to perfection. It’s the kind of recipe that feels fancy but is so simple to make, even on a busy weeknight. I first stumbled upon this idea while craving something indulgent but still wholesome, and let me tell you—it’s been a family favorite ever since. These turkey bombs are perfect for holiday gatherings, game day snacks, or even a fun dinner with the kiddos. Trust me, you’ll want to add this one to your recipe rotation!

If you love the combination of smoky bacon, rich maple sweetness, and moist turkey, this recipe is your new best friend. Plus, it’s versatile—you can tweak the flavors, make it low-carb, or even turn it into a meal-prep gem. Let’s dive into everything you need to make these irresistible candied bites!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under an hour, these bombs are surprisingly simple to whip up.
• Minimal Ingredients: You only need a handful of pantry staples, like bacon, turkey breast, and maple syrup.
• Perfectly Balanced Flavors: Sweet maple syrup, smoky bacon, and savory turkey make for an unforgettable combo.
• Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday appetizer, game day snack, or a fun family dinner, these bombs are always a hit!
• Customizable: You can switch up the glaze, wrap with prosciutto, or season the turkey to match your cravings.
• Kid-Approved: Even picky eaters can’t resist bacon-wrapped goodness!

What sets this recipe apart is the use of maple syrup for a perfectly candied finish. That sticky glaze caramelizes in the oven, giving each bite an irresistible crunch and sweetness. Plus, wrapping the turkey breast in bacon keeps it moist and flavorful—a win-win!

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that deliver bold flavor without the fuss. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Turkey Breast: Boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized chunks.
• Bacon: Thin slices work best for wrapping and crisping up perfectly.
• Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup is ideal for that rich, authentic sweetness.
• Brown Sugar: Optional, but it adds an extra layer of caramelized goodness.
• Garlic Powder: Adds a subtle kick to the turkey seasoning.
• Smoked Paprika: Brings smoky depth to the flavor profile.
• Salt & Pepper: For a touch of seasoning to enhance the turkey.
• Toothpicks: Essential for securing the bacon wraps.

If you’re missing maple syrup, you can substitute honey or agave syrup, though the flavors will vary slightly. And for a low-carb adaptation, skip the brown sugar and use sugar-free maple syrup instead.

Equipment Needed

• Baking Sheet: A rimmed sheet works best to catch any drippings.
• Wire Rack: Optional, but helps the bacon crisp evenly.
• Toothpicks: Keep those bacon wraps secured while cooking.
• Small Bowls: Perfect for mixing the glaze and seasoning.
• Sharp Knife: For cutting the turkey breast into chunks.

If you don’t have a wire rack, no worries—you can line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easier cleanup. And while toothpicks are ideal for securing the bacon, skewers can work in a pinch!

Preparation Method

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or place a wire rack on top.
2. Prep the turkey: Cut the turkey breast into bite-sized chunks, about 1-2 inches each. Season them with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Wrap with bacon: Wrap each turkey chunk with a slice of bacon, overlapping slightly. Secure the bacon with a toothpick.
4. Make the glaze: In a small bowl, mix maple syrup and brown sugar until combined. If you like a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
5. Brush the glaze: Generously brush the maple glaze over each bacon-wrapped turkey bomb. Make sure every piece is coated for maximum flavor.
6. Bake: Place the bombs on the prepared baking sheet or wire rack. Bake for 25-30 minutes, turning once halfway through. Keep an eye on them—the bacon should crisp up beautifully, and the glaze will caramelize.
7. Finish and serve: Remove the bombs from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Don’t forget to remove the toothpicks before digging in!

If the bacon isn’t crisping as much as you’d like, broil the bombs for 2-3 minutes at the end. Just watch closely to avoid burning!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

• Use Thin Bacon: Thin bacon crisps better and wraps more easily around the turkey.
• Don’t Skip the Toothpicks: They keep everything secure and make flipping the bombs easier during baking.
• Watch the Glaze: Maple syrup can burn quickly, so keep an eye on the bombs during the last few minutes of baking.
• Broil for Extra Crispiness: A quick broil at the end gives the bacon a golden, crispy finish.
• Season Well: Don’t be shy with the spices—they bring out the best in the turkey and bacon.

Variations & Adaptations

• Low-Carb Version: Use sugar-free maple syrup and skip the brown sugar for a keto-friendly option.
• Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the glaze for a hint of heat.
• Prosciutto Wrap: Swap bacon for prosciutto for a lighter, saltier twist.
• Herb-Infused: Sprinkle fresh rosemary or thyme over the bombs before baking for extra flavor.
• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but double-check your seasonings to ensure they’re safe.

Personally, I love adding a sprinkle of crushed pecans to the glaze for a nutty crunch. It’s a small tweak that makes a big difference!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These maple-bacon turkey bombs are best served warm, fresh out of the oven. Arrange them on a platter with toothpicks for easy grabbing—they make fantastic party appetizers! Pair them with a crisp green salad or roasted veggies for a complete meal. For drinks, sparkling cider or a bold red wine complements the flavors beautifully.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, or microwave them in short bursts until warm. If freezing, wrap each bomb individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Each serving of maple-bacon wrapped turkey bombs is packed with protein from the turkey and bacon. Turkey is a lean meat, making this dish a satisfying yet lighter option compared to pork-based recipes. The maple syrup provides a natural sweetness without refined sugar, and you can easily adapt the recipe for low-carb or gluten-free diets. Be mindful of the bacon and maple syrup if watching sodium or sugar intake.

Conclusion

Maple-bacon wrapped turkey breast bombs are proof that simple ingredients can create something truly magical in the kitchen. The combination of smoky bacon, sweet maple glaze, and tender turkey is pure comfort food, and the recipe is so versatile that you can easily make it your own. Whether you’re serving these as party appetizers or treating your family to a fun dinner, they’re guaranteed to be a hit!

Give this recipe a try, and let me know how it turns out! Do you have a favorite twist or variation? Share your ideas in the comments below—I’d love to hear from you. And if you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to pin it for later and share it with friends. Happy cooking!

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of turkey?

Absolutely! Chicken breast works just as well, though the flavor will be slightly different. Just make sure to cut it into bite-sized chunks like the turkey.

What if I don’t have maple syrup?

You can substitute honey or agave syrup for a similar sweetness. Keep in mind that the flavor profile will vary slightly.

How do I prevent the bacon from unwrapping during cooking?

Using toothpicks is key! Secure the bacon tightly around the turkey chunks before baking.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the bombs a day ahead and store them covered in the fridge. Brush with glaze and bake when ready.

Are these bombs freezer-friendly?

Definitely! Wrap each bomb individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

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