Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts (Sweet & Savory Appetizer)

These irresistible bacon wrapped water chestnuts are the ultimate party appetizer! Crispy bacon surrounds crunchy water chestnuts, all glazed with a sweet and tangy brown sugar sauce. Also known as Rumaki, these bite-sized treats combine the perfect balance of salty, sweet, and savory flavors that disappear from the appetizer table in minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts Recipe

This classic appetizer recipe has been a crowd-pleaser for decades, and for good reason. The contrast of crispy bacon with crunchy water chestnuts creates an addictive texture, while the brown sugar glaze adds a caramelized sweetness that balances the salty bacon perfectly. These easy appetizers require just 5 main ingredients and can be made ahead, making them ideal for holiday parties, game day gatherings, or any special occasion.

Ingredients for Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts

• 1 can (8 oz) whole water chestnuts, drained
• 1 pound center cut bacon
• 1 cup ketchup
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• Toothpicks

What Are Water Chestnuts?

Despite their name, water chestnuts aren’t nuts at all—they’re actually aquatic vegetables that grow underwater. These crunchy, slightly sweet vegetables are commonly found canned in the international aisle of most grocery stores. Their crisp texture holds up beautifully during cooking, making them perfect for wrapping in bacon.

How to Make Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts

Step 1: Prep the Bacon and Water Chestnuts

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray with non-stick cooking spray. Cut each bacon slice into thirds. Drain the water chestnuts and pat dry with paper towels.

Step 2: Wrap and Secure

Wrap one piece of bacon around each water chestnut. Secure with a toothpick through the center, piercing both the bacon and water chestnut. Place wrapped water chestnuts seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.

Step 3: Initial Bake

Bake for 20-25 minutes until bacon begins to crisp and render its fat. This first baking ensures the bacon cooks through properly.

Step 4: Make the Brown Sugar Glaze

While the bacon cooks, combine ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat for 5 minutes, stirring constantly until brown sugar completely dissolves. Remove from heat.

Step 5: Glaze and Finish Baking

Remove partially cooked bacon wrapped water chestnuts from the oven. Brush or spoon the brown sugar glaze generously over each piece, coating all sides. Return to oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes until bacon is crispy and glaze is caramelized.

Step 6: Serve

Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.

Recipe Tips for Perfect Results

Use Center Cut Bacon: Center cut bacon has less fat and crisps up better than regular bacon. Avoid thick-cut bacon as it takes too long to cook and may not crisp properly.

Pat Water Chestnuts Dry: Removing excess moisture helps the bacon adhere better and crisp up during baking.

Don’t Skip the First Bake: The two-stage baking process ensures crispy bacon and a perfectly caramelized glaze without burning.

Soak Toothpicks: If desired, soak wooden toothpicks in water for 10 minutes before using to prevent burning during baking.

Use Foil or Parchment: Line your baking sheet for easy cleanup—the glaze can get sticky!

Serve Warm: These appetizers taste best when served warm. The glaze becomes gooey and delicious.

Air Fryer Instructions

For bacon wrapped water chestnuts in the air fryer, cook at 400°F for 5 minutes. Remove, brush with glaze, then cook for an additional 5-6 minutes until bacon is crispy. Work in batches to avoid overcrowding.

Make Ahead Instructions

Prep Ahead: Wrap bacon around water chestnuts and secure with toothpicks up to 24 hours in advance. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Prepare the glaze and refrigerate separately.

Baking Day: Remove from refrigerator 15 minutes before baking. Follow baking instructions as written.

Freezing: Freeze unbaked wrapped water chestnuts for up to 1 month. Thaw in refrigerator overnight before baking. You can also freeze fully cooked appetizers for up to 3 months.

Storage and Reheating

Room Temperature: These appetizers will stay warm at room temperature for up to 2 hours, perfect for parties. Keep warm in a slow cooker set to low.

Refrigerator: Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container for 4-5 days.

Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes, in the air fryer at 375°F for 3-4 minutes, or microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through.

Recipe Variations

Spicy Bacon Water Chestnuts: Add 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper or sriracha to the glaze for heat.

Maple Glazed: Replace half the brown sugar with pure maple syrup for a different flavor profile.

Asian-Inspired: Add 1 tablespoon soy sauce and ½ teaspoon fresh grated ginger to the glaze.

Turkey Bacon Option: For a lighter version, use turkey bacon instead of pork bacon. Cooking time may vary slightly.

Pineapple Addition: Alternate water chestnuts with pineapple chunks for a tropical twist.

Serving Suggestions

These bacon wrapped appetizers are perfect for:

• Holiday parties and Christmas gatherings
• New Year’s Eve celebrations
• Game day and Super Bowl parties
• Wedding and baby showers
• Cocktail parties and happy hours
• Potlucks and family reunions

Serve alongside other party favorites like buffalo chicken dip, spinach artichoke dip, or meatballs. They pair wonderfully with champagne, beer, or classic cocktails.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many does this recipe make? One can of water chestnuts typically contains 20-30 whole pieces, so you’ll get approximately 20-30 appetizers from this recipe.

Can I double this recipe? Absolutely! This recipe doubles or triples easily for large gatherings. You may need multiple baking sheets or bake in batches.

Why is my bacon not crispy? Make sure you’re not using thick-cut bacon and that you’re baking long enough. The two-stage baking process is essential for crispy results.

Can I use fresh water chestnuts? Yes, but canned water chestnuts are more readily available and work perfectly. If using fresh, peel and clean thoroughly before using.

What can I substitute for Worcestershire sauce? Soy sauce works as a substitute, though the flavor will be slightly different.

Do I have to use ketchup? Ketchup provides the tomato-based sweetness and helps the glaze stick. BBQ sauce can work as an alternative.

Why This Recipe Works

The magic of this appetizer lies in the contrasting textures and balanced flavors. The water chestnuts maintain their signature crunch even after baking, providing a satisfying bite against the crispy bacon. The brown sugar glaze caramelizes during the second bake, creating a sticky-sweet coating that perfectly complements the salty bacon. The touch of Worcestershire sauce adds umami depth, preventing the appetizer from being one-dimensionally sweet.