Crispy Bacon Mozzarella Poppers combine gooey cheese, smoky bacon, crunchy breading, and a touch of maple syrup for the ultimate party appetizer.

Scale

8 thick-cut bacon strips

8 low-moisture mozzarella sticks

1/4 cup pure maple syrup

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

2 large eggs, beaten

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)

8 wooden toothpicks

Sriracha-ranch dip for serving

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1. Wrap each mozzarella stick with a bacon strip and secure with a toothpick.

2. Set up breading station with flour, beaten eggs, and panko in separate bowls.

3. Dip each wrapped stick in flour, then egg, then coat with panko.

4. Heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).

5. Fry poppers for 2–3 minutes until golden brown and bacon is crispy.

6. Drain on a wire rack over a baking sheet.

7. Drizzle with maple syrup while warm.

8. Serve immediately with Sriracha-ranch dip.

For best results, freeze the bacon-wrapped mozzarella before breading to prevent cheese from leaking during frying.