Introduction to Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls
Hey there, home cooks! You probably have a lot in common with me—you’re always running around when the mood strikes for something sweet and dreamy. Enter Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls. So much more than a roll; it’s a pastry hug! Light, warm rolls of cinnamon, and crispy, swirled bacon married with that bourbon maple frosting will make your taste buds happy. Good for breakfast when you’re running around the rest of the week; great to please your company with something special for dessert. So let’s get on this sweet ride together, shall we?
Why You’ll Love This Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls
These Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls tick all the boxes for a winner in your kitchen. First, they’re surprisingly simple to make, so even the busiest moms can whip them up without breaking a sweat. Plus, the combination of sweet and savory flavors is utterly addictive. Imagine the warm, comforting aroma filling your home as they bake—your loved ones won’t even wait for them to cool before diving in!
Ingredients for Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls
Before we dive into the baking process, let’s talk about the star ingredients that make these Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls shine. Each one plays a crucial role in the flavor and texture, so here’s the lowdown:
- Smoked bacon: The backbone of that crispy, savory flavor. You can use regular bacon, but smoked adds depth.
- Light brown sugar: This sweetener brings warmth and a bit of molasses flavor that complements the bourbon beautifully.
- Pure maple syrup: For that irresistible maple sweetness. Avoid imitation syrup if you can; it just doesn’t have the same depth.
- Bourbon whiskey: A splash adds a warm, complex flavor. You can swap it with rum or omit it entirely for a kid-friendly version.
- Freshly cracked black pepper: A secret ingredient that enhances the sweet and savory notes of the rolls.
- All-purpose flour: Used in both the tangzhong and dough for structure. Gluten-free flour can be used if needed.
- Instant yeast: This helps the dough rise quickly, making your life easier on busy mornings.
- Fine sea salt: Elevates the flavors. Don’t skip it; it’s crucial for balance.
- Whole milk: Adds richness to the dough, giving it that tender, pillowy texture.
- Egg: Provides binding and a tender crumb. Substitute with a flax egg if you’re keeping it vegan.
- Unsalted butter: A key player in both the dough and the filling, it adds richness. Make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
- Ground cinnamon: Essential for that classic cinnamon roll flavor—because, really, can you have cinnamon rolls without cinnamon?
- Candied bacon: Oh yes, it’s the pièce de resistance! This adds additional sweetness and crunch. Store-bought or homemade works in a pinch.
- Cream cheese: A delicious base for the frosting that adds tanginess. Feel free to use Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting. Homemade works too; just blend granulated sugar until fine.
- Garnish: The reserved candied bacon strips make for a beautiful topping before serving—because we eat with our eyes first!
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you’ll find all the details available for printing. Let’s get rolling!
How to Make Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls
Step 1: Prepare the Bacon
First, preheat your oven to 375°F. This ensures your bacon cooks evenly and crispily. Lay the bacon slices in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. In a bowl, mix the light brown sugar, pure maple syrup, bourbon, and black pepper. This flavor concoction is the secret to caramelizing the bacon beautifully. Now, brush it over each slice. Bake for 30 to 40 minutes, watching carefully for that perfect caramelized finish. Once done, remove the bacon and place it on a wire rack to cool completely—this helps keep that amazing crispy texture!
Step 2: Create the Tangzhong
Next, let’s make the tangzhong, a Japanese method that helps keep your rolls soft and fluffy. In a small saucepan, whisk together the water and flour over medium heat. Stir continuously for about 4 to 5 minutes, or until it thickens into a smooth paste. This little step makes all the difference in achieving that tender dough. Once thickened, transfer it to a bowl and allow it to cool to room temperature. You’ll love how much moisture this adds to our rolls!
Step 3: Mix the Dough
Now it’s time to gather your ingredients for the dough. In your stand mixer bowl, combine the remaining flour, granulated sugar, instant yeast, and fine sea salt. This mix provides the strength for our rolls! Next, add in the room-temperature egg, whole milk, and your cooled tangzhong. Mix everything together on low speed using the dough hook for two minutes until you’ve got a shaggy dough. Don’t rush this part! Getting the mix right is key to fluffy Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls. Trust me; it’ll pay off!
Step 4: Knead the Dough
Now that the dough is mixed, it’s kneading time! Add softened butter in increments, mixing well after each addition. Knead the dough in the stand mixer for about 8 to 10 minutes. It should become smooth and elastic—but not sticky! A great test is to press your finger into the dough; if it bounces back, you’re ready to move on. If it’s still sticky, keep kneading. You want a soft, supple dough that’s ready to rise!
Step 5: Let it Rise
Once your dough is kneaded, shape it into a ball and place it seam-side down in a lightly buttered bowl. Cover it with plastic wrap. Now, find a warm spot in your kitchen and let it rise for about an hour, or until it’s doubled in size. This can be done in a turned-off oven or another cozy nook. A little warmth works wonders and encourages the yeast to party hard!
Step 6: Form the Rolls
With your dough beautifully risen, it’s time to roll things out! Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and use a rolling pin to stretch it into a rectangle about 15 by 18 inches. Beat together the filling ingredients—softened butter, light brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. Spread this luscious mixture evenly over your dough, leaving a 1-inch border at the top. After that, sprinkle your finely chopped candied bacon over the filling. Cut the dough into twelve 1.5-inch strips. Roll each strip away from you and place these glorious rolls in a parchment-lined 9 by 13-inch baking pan.
Step 7: Second Rise
Cover the rolls with plastic wrap again and allow them to proof at room temperature for about 1 hour. This second rise is crucial! It gives those rolls that fluffy texture everyone loves. Use this time to preheat your oven to 325°F. Your kitchen will start smelling amazing, and trust me, your patience will be rewarded when you see those rolls puff up beautifully!
Step 8: Bake and Cool
After the second rise, it’s finally baking time! Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for 24 to 30 minutes. Keep an eye out for golden-brown tops; they’ll look irresistible! To check doneness, gently tap the top; if it sounds hollow, it’s ready! When they’re done, let the rolls cool in the pan for a few minutes on a wire rack. This step prevents sogginess while still keeping them warm.
Step 9: Prepare the Frosting
While your rolls are cooling, let’s whip up that mouthwatering frosting! In a bowl, mix together room-temperature butter and cream cheese until creamy and well combined. Gradually add powdered sugar, whisking until smooth. Then, stir in the pure maple syrup and bourbon. Feel free to adjust the amount of bourbon based on your taste. If you love a more intense flavor, add a little more; you got this!
Step 10: Top and Serve
Finally, it’s time for the grand reveal! Spread the rich frosting over those warm rolls so it melts slightly into every crevice—you’ll be tempted to dive in right away! To finish, garnish with the reserved candied bacon strips. Watch your family gather ’round; they won’t be able to resist these Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls!
Tips for Success
- Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother dough; it makes a big difference!
- Ensure your bacon is crispy for the best texture and flavor contrast.
- Don’t rush the rising time; allow the dough to fully double for fluffy rolls.
- Experiment with the frosting; adjust the bourbon to match your flavor preference.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh longer.
Equipment Needed
- Stand mixer: Ideal for kneading, but a large bowl and your hands work too!
- Parchment paper: Great for lining baking sheets. You can use a greased pan as an alternative.
- Rolling pin: Essential for rolling the dough, but a wine bottle can do the trick!
- Wire rack: Perfect for cooling, but a cutting board works if you don’t have one.
Variations
- Maple Pecan Delight: Swap out the bacon for toasted pecans for a nutty twist on the classic flavor.
- Vegan Option: Use vegan butter and a flax egg, along with maple syrup and non-dairy milk for a plant-based version.
- Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the brown sugar mixture for a sweet and spicy combo!
- Chocolate Lover’s Version: Incorporate chocolate chips into the filling for a decadent touch.
- Gluten-Free Rolls: Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend to make these rolls suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.
Serving Suggestions
- Fresh Fruit: Serve with a side of mixed berries or sliced apples for a pop of color and freshness.
- Coffee or Tea: Pair with a robust coffee or a soothing herbal tea to enhance the breakfast experience.
- Elegant Plating: Drizzle some extra maple syrup on the plate for a beautiful presentation.
- Ice Cream: For a dessert twist, top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
FAQs about Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls
Can I make Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the rolls up until the second rise, cover them tightly, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking. This way, you can enjoy fresh rolls even on busy mornings!
What can I substitute for bourbon in the recipe?
If you prefer not to use bourbon, you can replace it with vanilla extract or even apple cider for a different flavor profile. Just remember, the depth of flavor will be different, but it will still be delicious!
How do I store leftover Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls?
To keep your rolls fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. If you want them to last longer, freeze them! Just wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.
Can I freeze the rolls after baking?
Yes, you can freeze the baked rolls! Let them cool completely, then wrap them tightly and store them in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight, then reheat in the oven for a few minutes to revive that fresh-baked taste.
What toppings can I add to the frosting?
Feel free to get creative! Chopped nuts, a sprinkle of sea salt, or even drizzle melted chocolate can complement the flavors nicely. This allows you to customize those Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls to your taste!
Final Thoughts
Making Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls is more than just baking; it’s about creating moments of joy and warmth in your kitchen. The delightful combination of flavors mingling together brings back fond memories of family gatherings and cozy weekends. Each bite offers a little taste of comfort that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying all to yourself with a cup of coffee. These rolls are bound to steal the show at any brunch or family breakfast. So, roll up your sleeves and treat yourself to this irresistible delight. You deserve it!
Print
Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 rolls 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Delightful cinnamon rolls infused with bourbon, maple, and crispy bacon, creating an irresistible treat.
Ingredients
- 1 pound smoked bacon
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons bourbon whiskey
- 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (for tangzhong)
- 3/4 cup water (for tangzhong)
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (for dough)
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar (for dough)
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast (for dough)
- 3/4 teaspoon fine sea salt (for dough)
- 1/2 cup whole milk, room temperature (for dough)
- 1 large egg, room temperature (for dough)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened (for dough)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature (for filling)
- 2/3 cup light brown sugar (for filling)
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (for filling)
- 1 cup crumbled candied bacon, reserved (for filling)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature (for frosting)
- 2 ounces cream cheese, room temperature (for frosting)
- 3/4 cup powdered sugar (for frosting)
- 1/2 to 1 teaspoon bourbon whiskey (for frosting)
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup (for frosting)
- 1/2 cup candied bacon strips, reserved (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange bacon slices in a single layer.
- Mix together brown sugar, maple syrup, bourbon, and black pepper. Evenly coat each bacon slice with mixture. Bake for 30 to 40 minutes until deeply caramelized and crisp. Remove and transfer bacon onto a wire rack to cool completely. Reserve 1/2 cup strips for garnish; finely chop remainder for filling.
- Whisk water and flour together in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, for 4 to 5 minutes until thickened into a smooth paste. Transfer to a bowl, cool to room temperature.
- Combine remaining flour, sugar, instant yeast, and salt in stand mixer bowl. Add egg, milk, and cooled tangzhong. Mix on low speed with the dough hook for 2 minutes, until a shaggy dough forms.
- Add softened butter in 1/2-tablespoon increments, mixing after each addition. Knead for 8 to 10 minutes until the dough is smooth, elastic, and only slightly sticky.
- Shape dough into a ball and place seam-side down in a lightly buttered bowl. Cover and let rise in a warm spot for 1 hour, or until doubled in volume.
- Transfer dough to a lightly floured surface and roll into a rectangle, approximately 15 by 18 inches.
- Beat together butter, light brown sugar, and ground cinnamon for filling. Spread filling evenly over dough, leaving a 1-inch border at the top edge.
- Sprinkle chopped candied bacon evenly over the filling.
- Cut dough into twelve 1.5-inch wide strips. Roll each strip away from you and place rolls, cut-side up, into a parchment-lined 9 by 13-inch baking pan.
- Cover with plastic wrap and proof at room temperature for 1 hour, or until nearly doubled. Preheat oven to 325°F.
- Bake for 24 to 30 minutes until tops are golden brown. Cool rolls in the pan on a wire rack.
- Mix butter and cream cheese until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, then whisk in maple syrup and bourbon, adjusting to taste.
- Spread frosting over warm rolls, top with reserved bacon strips, and serve fresh.
Notes
- Ensure the bacon is well-cooked and crisp for the best texture.
- You can adjust the amount of bourbon in the frosting according to your preference.
- These rolls are best served warm but can be stored for a couple of days in an airtight container.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Breakfast/Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
