Step 1: Preparing and Baking the Bacon Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F, as noted in the original directions. Arrange the 1 lb (16 oz) thick cut bacon in a single layer on rimmed baking sheets for even cooking. Bake for 15-20 minutes until it’s nice and crisp, then carefully remove it and place on paper towels to cool and drain excess fat.

Once cooled, cut the bacon into 2-inch pieces. This step ensures each bite is the perfect size for dipping and eating.

Step 2: Melting the Chocolate Next, take the 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or 6 oz chopped chocolate and mix it with 2 teaspoons vegetable shortening in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat it at 50% power in 30-second intervals, stirring after each one until it’s melted and smooth. This method keeps the chocolate from burning and gives you a glossy finish.

Always stir gently to avoid creating lumps; it’s a small detail that makes a big difference in the texture.

Step 3: Dipping and Coating Now for the fun part: dip each 2-inch bacon piece into the melted chocolate, letting the excess drip off. Right away, sprinkle on any optional coatings like chopped pistachios or sea salt if you want to add extra flavor. Place the coated pieces on a baking sheet lined with wax paper in a single layer.

Refrigerate them for about 15 minutes to let the chocolate set firmly. For the final touch, heat the 2 oz white chocolate candy melts in the same way microwave at 50% power in 30-second intervals until smooth.

Step 4: Adding the Finishing Drizzle Transfer the melted white chocolate to a small resealable bag, snip off a tiny corner, and drizzle it over the chocolate-covered bacon. Pop them back in the fridge until the white chocolate sets completely. Following these steps from the directions ensures your bites look as good as they taste.