How to Keep the Bacon Wrapped
Drain the water chestnuts well and pat them dry so they’re easier to handle. Wrap each one in a third of a bacon slice, overlap the ends, and set it seam-side down. Leave a little space between the bites so the bacon can crisp around the edges.
When to Take the Bites Out of the Oven
Start checking at 30 minutes. The bites are ready when the bacon is browned and crisp and the brown sugar has melted into a glossy coating. Let them rest for 5 minutes so the coating sets slightly before transferring them to a platter.
3-Ingredient Bacon Kensington Bites Recipe Card
Bacon-wrapped water chestnuts baked with a sweet brown sugar coating.
- Prep time — About 15 minutes
- Bake time — 30 to 40 minutes
- Rest time — 5 minutes
- Yield — 24 bites
- Servings — 10 to 12 as an appetizer
Ingredients
- 1 pound sliced bacon, cut crosswise into thirds (use 24 pieces)
- 24 whole water chestnuts, drained well and patted dry
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a rimmed metal baking sheet with foil. If using an oven-safe wire rack, lightly grease it and set it over the pan.
- Wrap each water chestnut with one piece of bacon, overlapping the ends. Arrange the bites seam-side down on the pan or rack with a little space between them.
- Sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the bites, pressing it lightly against the tops and sides so it clings.
- Bake for 30 to 40 minutes, until the bacon is browned and crisp and the sugar has melted into a glossy coating. For deeper caramelization, broil for 1 to 2 minutes using a broiler-safe pan and rack, watching closely.
- Let the bites rest for 5 minutes. Transfer to a platter and serve warm.