Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls

Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls are the ultimate indulgence for breakfast or brunch. This decadent twist on the classic cinnamon roll combines the rich, smoky flavor of bacon with the deep sweetness of maple syrup, all enhanced by the warmth of bourbon. The result is a sweet, savory, and slightly boozy treat that will elevate any morning into a special occasion. The layers of buttery dough, cinnamon-sugar filling, and crispy bacon come together in a mouthwatering combination that’s simply irresistible. Topped with a luscious maple glaze, these cinnamon rolls are an experience in every bite.

Perfect for a cozy weekend breakfast or a unique treat for holidays and gatherings, Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls are bound to become a favorite. Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the oven or reheated for a later treat, they stay deliciously soft and flavorful. The bourbon and maple syrup combination adds a unique depth, while the bacon gives the rolls a savory bite that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the cinnamon filling. Make them once, and you’ll find yourself craving them again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Unique Flavor Combination

The smoky bacon, rich bourbon, and sweet maple syrup create a flavor profile unlike any other cinnamon roll.

2. Sweet and Savory Perfection

The balance of savory bacon and sweet cinnamon sugar filling is irresistible and will satisfy both your sweet tooth and your craving for something savory.

3. Bourbon Infusion

The bourbon adds a depth of flavor to the maple syrup glaze, elevating the rolls with a warm, sophisticated twist.

4. Flaky and Soft Dough

The dough is soft, tender, and flaky, making each bite a melt-in-your-mouth experience.

5. Ideal for Special Occasions

Whether it’s a weekend breakfast, holiday brunch, or special celebration, these cinnamon rolls are perfect for making any occasion feel extraordinary.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• All-purpose flour
• Active dry yeast
• Granulated sugar
• Salt
• Milk
• Unsalted butter
• Eggs

For the Filling:

• Brown sugar
• Ground cinnamon
• Unsalted butter
• Cooked bacon (crispy and crumbled)

For the Bourbon Maple Glaze:

• Maple syrup
• Bourbon
• Powdered sugar
• Vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt

Variations

• Spicy Bourbon Maple Glaze: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the bourbon maple glaze for a little heat that balances the sweetness.
• Nutty Addition: Stir in some chopped pecans or walnuts into the filling for added texture and flavor.
• Vegan Option: Substitute the butter and milk in the dough with plant-based alternatives like almond milk and vegan butter for a dairy-free version.
• Bacon Alternatives: Try using pancetta or turkey bacon for a slightly lighter version or a different flavor profile.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Make the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Stir to dissolve and let sit for 5 minutes until the mixture is frothy. Add the flour, salt, eggs, and melted butter to the yeast mixture, and mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

While the dough is rising, cook the bacon until crispy. Drain on paper towels and crumble into small pieces. In a separate bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon. Set aside.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a large rectangle (about 12×18 inches). Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the butter. Finally, scatter the crumbled bacon evenly across the cinnamon sugar.

Step 4: Roll and Slice

Starting from one edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Cut the log into 12 equal slices and place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Make sure the slices are close together but not touching.

Step 5: Let the Rolls Rise

Cover the baking dish with a kitchen towel and let the rolls rise for 30 minutes. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) while the rolls are rising.

Step 6: Bake the Rolls

Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown on top. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly.

Step 7: Make the Glaze

In a small saucepan, combine maple syrup, bourbon, powdered sugar, and a pinch of salt. Heat over medium heat, whisking until smooth. Let it simmer for a few minutes to thicken, then remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 8: Glaze and Serve

Once the rolls have cooled slightly, pour the bourbon maple glaze over them, making sure to coat each roll. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Let the Dough Rise Properly: Be patient with the rising time to ensure the dough becomes light and fluffy. The dough should be doubled in size before moving to the next step.
• Crispy Bacon: For the best texture, make sure the bacon is crispy so it holds up well when crumbled and mixed into the filling.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for the dough, as this helps with the dough’s texture and allows it to rise better.
• Maple Syrup Quality: Use good-quality pure maple syrup for the glaze to get the best flavor.

How to Serve

Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls are best served warm, fresh out of the oven. You can serve them as part of a brunch spread, paired with coffee or mimosas for a festive feel. They’re also delicious on their own as a decadent breakfast or an afternoon treat. For a special twist, top them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

These cinnamon rolls are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you’re storing them for longer, refrigerate them to keep them fresh.

Freezing

To freeze, allow the rolls to cool completely and place them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.

Reheating

To reheat individual rolls, pop them in the microwave for 20-30 seconds, or warm the entire batch in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I make these cinnamon rolls without bourbon?

Yes, you can omit the bourbon and simply use more maple syrup in the glaze for a non-alcoholic version.

2. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the dough the night before. After kneading, cover it tightly and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let the dough come to room temperature before rolling and continuing with the recipe.

3. How can I make these rolls less sweet?

To reduce the sweetness, use less brown sugar in the filling or skip the maple glaze entirely and drizzle with just a little honey instead.

4. Can I make these rolls gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, but make sure to follow the instructions on the blend for best results.

5. What can I substitute for the bacon?

If you don’t eat bacon, you can substitute with cooked pancetta, turkey bacon, or even a plant-based bacon alternative.

6. Can I use a different type of syrup for the glaze?

While maple syrup is traditional, you could substitute with honey or agave syrup for a different flavor profile.

7. Can I make this recipe with regular cinnamon rolls instead of homemade?

Yes, you can use store-bought cinnamon rolls and add the bacon and bourbon maple glaze for a quicker version of this recipe.

8. Can I add more spices to the filling?

Yes, you can add additional spices like nutmeg, allspice, or ginger to customize the flavor to your liking.

9. How do I know when the rolls are done baking?

The rolls are done when they’re golden brown on top and an inserted toothpick comes out clean. The internal temperature should be around 190°F (88°C).

10. Can I make the rolls without the glaze?

Yes, you can skip the glaze if you prefer a simpler version of the rolls, though the glaze does add a lot of flavor and sweetness.

Conclusion

Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls are the ultimate indulgence, combining sweet, savory, and a touch of boozy warmth to create a unique and irresistible treat. Whether you’re serving them for a special occasion or just because, these rolls are sure to impress. With their flaky dough, rich filling, and luscious maple glaze, they’re perfect for any breakfast or brunch and are guaranteed to satisfy your cravings.

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