Smoked Goat Cheese with Bacon Jam | AlcheMeats' Manic Mage & Philosopher’s Potion

🍽️ Introduction

Sweet, smoky, and absolutely irresistible — this Smoked Goat Cheese topped with Bacon Jam is an appetizer that turns heads and ignites taste buds. Creamy goat cheese meets rich, caramelized bacon jam infused with AlcheMeats’ signature Manic Mage seasoning blend, delivering a perfect balance of savory and sweetness. The finishing touch of Philosopher’s Potion adds herbal brightness that makes every bite unforgettable.

Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or looking for a standout dish for the holidays, this recipe will have everyone asking for seconds — and the secret is in the seasoning.

🧂 Ingredients

For the Bacon Jam

• 1 lb thick-cut bacon, chopped

• 1 large yellow onion, diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• ¼ cup brown sugar

• ¼ cup maple syrup

• ¼ cup apple cider vinegar

• 1 tbsp Manic Mage seasoning

For the Goat Cheese

• 8 oz goat cheese log or wheel

• 4 oz cream cheese

• ½ tsp Philosopher’s Potion seasoning

• Crackers, pretzel chips, apples, figs or sliced baguette for serving

🔥 Directions

1. Smoke the Goat Cheese:

   • Preheat smoker to 200°F using mild wood (apple or cherry).

   • Mix goat cheese and cream cheese in a cast iron pan. Season top generously with Philosopher's Potion.

   • Smoke for 45–60 minutes until slightly softened and infused with flavor.

2. Prepare the Bacon Jam:

   • Cook bacon directly on grill grates, over medium heat until crisp. 

   • In a cast iron skillet, sauté onion and garlic for 5–7 minutes until softened and golden.

   • Stir in brown sugar, maple syrup and apple cider vinegar to deglaze the pan.

   • Add Manic Mage seasoning and the chopped, cooked bacon.

   • Reduce heat and simmer for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and jam-like.

3. Assemble the Appetizer:

   • Remove goat cheese from smoker and top generously with Bacon Jam.

   • Sprinkle Philosopher’s Potion over the top for a final aromatic flourish.

   • Serve warm with toasted baguette slices or crackers.

🎥 Watch the Recipe Video

Watch how Manic Mage and Philosopher’s Potion come together to transform smoked goat cheese into a flavor-packed, show-stopping appetizer.

💡 Pro Tips

• For a creamier texture, fold a spoonful of bacon jam into the cheese before topping.

• Serve with sliced apples or figs for a sweet contrast.

• Add a drizzle of hot honey for an extra kick of heat and sweetness.

🧪 Featured Seasonings

Manic Mage

A sweet-heat blend with smoky paprika, chili, and brown sugar that turns bacon jam into something truly magical. Ideal for pork, chicken, or anything that craves bold flavor.

Philosopher’s Potion

An herby, citrus-forward blend perfect for seafood, vegetables, and finishing touches that need brightness and balance.

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