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    You are here: Home / Recipes / Appetizers & Dips

    Maple Bourbon Bacon Wrapped Salmon Bites Recipe

    📋 Modified: Jul 20, 2023 by 👩🏻‍🍳 Jami Powell · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

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    Feast your eyes on these Maple Bourbon Bacon-Wrapped Salmon Bites! If you love crispy bacon and succulent salmon, get ready to enjoy these little guys. In this recipe (see video below), we guide you through the simple steps of creating these irresistible bites. Grilled to perfection and glazed with a sweet maple bourbon sauce, these salmon bites will be the star of your next outdoor barbecue.

    bacon wrapped salmon bites hero image close up

    Maple Bourbon Bacon-Wrapped Salmon Bites are amazing! Each succulent piece of salmon is lovingly tucked away in smoky bacon, creating a perfect blend of textures and tastes. The glaze, made with maple syrup, brown sugar, and bourbon, adds a touch of sweetness. Grilling these bites imparts a delicious smoky flavor while ensuring the bacon turns crispy and the salmon remains tender. Whether you're hosting a barbecue or simply craving some killer seafood, these salmon bites are the best!

    Why we love this recipe:

    • It's quick - Easy to make and perfect for any occasion.
    • It's flavorful - The combination of smoky bacon and tender salmon is irresistible.
    • It's a treat - The maple bourbon glaze adds the perfect touch of sweetness to the salmon.
    • It's party food - These salmon bites can be served as an appetizer when entertaining guests.

    If you enjoy this seafood recipe, you may also love our Ahi Tuna Steak Salad or our Mango Citrus Salad with Salmon.

    Jump to:
    • INGREDIENTS
    • INSTRUCTIONS
    • SUBSTITUTIONS
    • VARIATIONS
    • EQUIPMENT
    • STORAGE
    • TOP TIPS
    • HOW TO
    • MORE RECIPES
    • FAQ
    • 📖 Recipe
    • Food Safety
    • 💬 Comments

    INGREDIENTS

    • Salmon fillet - A tender and flavorful fish serves as the star ingredient for our bacon-wrapped salmon bites.
    • Bacon slices - Crispy, smoky, and savory, the bacon adds a delicious layer of flavor and texture to each bite.
    • Maple syrup - The natural sweetness of maple syrup enhances the overall taste and creates a delicious glaze for the salmon.
    • Brown sugar - With its rich molasses flavor, brown sugar adds depth and complexity to the maple bourbon glaze.
    • Bourbon - The addition of bourbon lends a subtle warmth to the glaze.
    • Salt and black pepper - These common seasonings help to enhance the taste of the salmon and balance the sweetness of the glaze.
    • Wooden skewers or toothpicks - Soaked in water, these tools secure the bacon-wrapped salmon bites and prevent them from falling apart during cooking.

    Note: Refer to the recipe card below for exact quantities.

    Salmon bites maple bourbon glaze process photo 1 thickening
    Salmon bites process photo 2 cutting into 1 inch pieces
    Bacon wrapped salmon bites process photo 3 brushing with glaze
    Salmon bites process photo 4 cooking

    INSTRUCTIONS

    How to Make Maple Bourbon Bacon Wrapped Salmon Bites

    STEP ONE: Prepare the Maple Bourbon Glaze

    In a small saucepan, combine the maple syrup, brown sugar, and bourbon over medium heat.

    Stir until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture has thickened slightly, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

    STEP TWO: Prepare the Bacon-Wrapped Salmon Bites

    Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375°F to 400°F). Cut the salmon fillet into equal one-inch portions.

    Wrap each salmon portion with a slice of bacon, starting from one end and overlapping slightly. Secure the bacon in place with a wooden skewer or toothpick. Repeat this step for all salmon bites.

    STEP THREE: Grill the Bacon-Wrapped Salmon Bites

    Brush the bacon-wrapped salmon with the maple bourbon glaze, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.

    Place the bacon-wrapped salmon on the preheated grill. To prevent excess bacon grease from dripping onto the grill, place a disposable aluminum foil pan or a heatproof baking dish directly underneath the bacon-wrapped salmon. Close the lid and cook for approximately 6 minutes.

    After 6 minutes, carefully flip the salmon using a spatula and grill until the bacon is crispy and the salmon is cooked to a safe internal temperature (see food safety below). Baste with the remaining glaze occasionally during the cooking process.

    STEP FOUR: Rest and Serve

    Once cooked, remove the bacon-wrapped salmon bites from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute and ensure maximum tenderness.

    Serve the maple bourbon bacon-wrapped salmon bites hot, accompanied by a dipping sauce of your choice. They are perfect as an appetizer or a delicious addition to any main course.

    Note: If you prefer extra crispy bacon, you can achieve that by broiling the bacon-wrapped salmon bites in the oven. Simply bake them at 375°F (190°C), and during the last few minutes of cooking, turn on your oven's broiler to high and position the oven rack about 12 inches away from the heat source. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning. This method will ensure perfectly crispy bacon while maintaining the tenderness and deliciousness of the salmon.

    SUBSTITUTIONS

    • Alcohol - If you prefer not to use bourbon, you can substitute it with apple juice or apple cider for a similar depth of flavor.
    • Maple Syrup - Replace the maple syrup in the glaze with an equal amount of honey for a different yet equally delicious flavor.

    VARIATIONS

    • Citrus-Marinated Salmon Bites - Add a burst of freshness by marinating the salmon bites in a mixture of citrus juices, such as orange and lime, along with some zest.

    EQUIPMENT

    This post shows some of our kitchen essentials. Please visit our shop if you would like to see more of our favorites. These are Amazon affiliate links and we earn commission from qualifying purchases.

    To make these Maple Bourbon Bacon-Wrapped Salmon Bites, you'll need:

    • Grill
    • Wooden skewers or toothpicks
    • Knife
    • Cutting board

    STORAGE

    Store any leftover Maple Bourbon Bacon-Wrapped Salmon Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

    Reheat them in a preheated oven or briefly on the grill to regain their deliciousness.

    Note: Refer to Top Tips below for more storage and reheating tips.

    TOP TIPS

    Use fresh, high-quality salmon fillets for the best results.

    Soak the wooden skewers or toothpicks in water before grilling to prevent them from burning.

    Baste the salmon bites with the maple bourbon glaze during grilling to infuse them with maximum flavor.

    Adjust the grilling time based on the thickness of the salmon and desired level of doneness.

    For extra crispiness, see the note under Step 4 above.

    HOW TO

    How do I remove the skin from salmon?

    1. Start by placing the salmon fillet skin-side down on a cutting board.
    2. Using a sharp knife, make a small incision between the flesh and the skin at one end of the fillet.
    3. Hold the loose end of the skin firmly with one hand and angle the knife slightly downward, keeping it parallel to the cutting board.
    4. While holding the skin, gently slide the knife along the length of the fillet, separating the flesh from the skin with a smooth slicing motion.
    5. Continue to slide the knife carefully, maintaining contact with the skin, until you've removed the skin completely.

    MORE RECIPES

    Have leftover ingredients?

    • Use leftover bacon in breakfast dishes, salads, sandwiches, or as a topping for baked potatoes.
    • Try adding leftover salmon to pasta dishes, salads, or even salmon tacos.

    In the mood for a similar dish?

    • Fried Grouper Cheeks
    • Simple Bay Scallops with Pasta and Lemon Garlic Sauce
    • Ahi Tuna Steak Salad

    Need something to pair this with?

    • Serve the bacon-wrapped salmon bites with a side of charred and flavorful grilled vegetables.
    • Pair the bites with a tangy and refreshing dill-based dipping sauce.

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    FAQ

    Can I use frozen salmon fillets for this recipe?

    Fresh salmon is recommended for the best taste and texture. However, if using frozen salmon, ensure it is fully thawed and pat it dry before proceeding with the recipe.

    Can I make this recipe in the oven or in the air fryer instead of grilling?

    Yes, you can! Preheat your oven or air fryer to a similar temperature as indicated for grilling. Place the bacon-wrapped salmon bites on a baking sheet or tray and bake until the bacon is crispy and the salmon is cooked through.

    Bacon wrapped salmon bites feature image with dipping sauce.

    📖 Recipe

    Bacon wrapped salmon bites feature image with dipping sauce.

    Maple Bourbon Bacon Wrapped Salmon Bites Recipe

    Jami Powell
    Feast your eyes on these Maple Bourbon Bacon-Wrapped Salmon Bites! If you love crispy bacon and succulent salmon, get ready to enjoy these little guys. In this recipe (see video below), we guide you through the simple steps of creating these irresistible bites. Grilled to perfection and glazed with a sweet maple bourbon sauce, these salmon bites will be the star of your next outdoor barbecue.
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Save Recipe Saved Recipe!
    Prep Time 10 minutes mins
    Cook Time 20 minutes mins
    Total Time 30 minutes mins
    Course Appetizer
    Cuisine Seafood
    Servings 8
    Calories 322 kcal

    Equipment

    • Grill
    • Wooden skewers or toothpicks
    • Knife
    • Cutting board

    Ingredients
      

    • 1 lb salmon fillet skin removed
    • ½ lb bacon slices
    • ½ cup maple syrup
    • ½ cup brown sugar
    • ¼ cup bourbon
    • salt to taste
    • pepper to taste
    • Wooden skewers or toothpicks soaked in water for 30 minutes

    Instructions
     

    • Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375°F to 400°F).
    • In a small saucepan, combine the maple syrup, brown sugar, and bourbon over medium heat. Stir until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture has thickened slightly, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
    • Cut the salmon fillet into equal one inch portions.
    • Wrap each salmon portion with a bacon slice, starting from one end and overlapping slightly. Secure the bacon in place with a wooden skewer or toothpick. Repeat this step for all salmon bites.
    • Brush the bacon-wrapped salmon with the maple bourbon glaze, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.
    • Place the bacon-wrapped salmon on the preheated grill. To minimize flare-ups and prevent excess bacon grease from dripping onto the grill, place a disposable aluminum foil pan or a heatproof baking dish directly underneath the bacon-wrapped salmon on the grill. Close the lid and cook for approximately 6 minutes.
    • After 6 minutes, carefully flip the salmon using a spatula and grill until the bacon is crispy and the salmon is cooked to a safe internal temperature (see food safety below). Baste with the remaining glaze occasionally during the cooking process.
    • Once cooked, remove the bacon-wrapped salmon from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute and ensure maximum tenderness.
    • Serve the bacon-wrapped salmon hot, with a dipping sauce on the side.

    Video

    Notes

    Top Tip If you prefer extra crispy bacon, you can achieve that by broiling the bacon-wrapped salmon bites in the oven. Simply bake them at 375°F (190°C), and during the last few minutes of cooking, turn on your oven's broiler to high and position the oven rack about 12 inches away from the heat source. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning. This method will ensure perfectly crispy bacon while maintaining the tenderness and deliciousness of the salmon.
    Storage Store in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
    Freeze This dish is not freezer friendly.
    Reheat Place in a preheated oven or briefly on the grill to regain their deliciousness.
    Substitutions
      • Alcohol - If you prefer not to use bourbon, you can substitute it with apple juice or apple cider for a similar depth of flavor.
      • Maple Syrup - Replace the maple syrup in the glaze with an equal amount of honey for a different yet equally delicious flavor.
    Nutrition The provided nutrition information is only an estimate.
    Adjustments Cooking time may need to be adjusted based on the geography of the area (high vs. low elevation), cookware (stoneware vs traditional bakeware), and outdoor temperature if grilling.

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1servingCalories: 322kcalCarbohydrates: 22gProtein: 21gFat: 15gSugar: 22g
    Did you make this recipe?Tag @powell.family.cooking on Instagram

    Food Safety

    Cook shellfish and fish to a minimum internal temperature of 145 °F (62.8 °C)

    Ensure that the salmon is fresh and properly stored before use.

    • Create a clean work area.
    • Wash hands after touching raw meat or seafood.
    • Rinse fresh produce thoroughly.
    • Do not use the same cutting board or utensils on cooked food or produce, that previously touched raw meat or seafood.
    • Do not leave food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods.
    • Never leave cooking food unattended.
    • Use oils with a high smoking point to avoid harmful compounds.
    • Always have good ventilation when using a gas stove.

    See more guidelines at USDA.gov.

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    Welcome to Powell Family Cooking! Our family enjoys creating delicious meals with healthy ingredients that can be shared by many. Our goal is to provide simple, elegant dish ideas for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests. Many of the recipes on our website have been passed down from family and friends. We hope you are inspired to do the same.

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