Name: Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls
Prep time: 2 h
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 3 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 450 g smoked bacon; 110 g light brown sugar; 60 ml pure maple syrup; 30 ml bourbon whiskey; 1 tsp freshly cracked black pepper; 30 g all-purpose flour (for tangzhong); 180 ml water (for tangzhong); 440 g all-purpose flour (for dough); 67 g granulated sugar; 2 tsp instant yeast; 0.75 tsp fine sea salt; 120 ml whole milk, room temperature; 1 large egg, room temperature; 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened; 113 g unsalted butter (for filling); 135 g light brown sugar (for filling); 2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1 cup crumbled candied bacon, reserved; 56 g unsalted butter (for frosting); 57 g cream cheese, room temperature; 95 g powdered sugar; 2.5-5 ml bourbon whiskey (for frosting); 30 ml pure maple syrup (for frosting); 0.5 cup candied bacon strips, reserved for garnish

Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls

Indulging in Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls is an experience that awakens your taste buds and warms your soul. These delightful rolls combine the irresistible sweetness of cinnamon and rich maple syrup with the smoky depth of bacon, creating a perfect balance of flavors. Each bite offers a tender, fluffy texture that contrasts beautifully with the crispy, caramelized bacon topping. The aroma that fills your kitchen while these rolls bake is simply divine, making them an ideal treat for breakfast or brunch gatherings. Whether you are hosting a special occasion or simply want to indulge yourself, this decadent recipe will leave everyone craving for more.

Ingredients

450 g smoked bacon: Adds a savory and smoky depth to the rolls.
110 g light brown sugar: Provides sweetness and a caramel-like flavor.
60 ml pure maple syrup: Infuses natural sweetness and a hint of earthiness.
30 ml bourbon whiskey: Adds warmth and complexity to the bacon mixture.
1 tsp freshly cracked black pepper: Enhances the sweet and savory flavors.
30 g all-purpose flour: Used for the tangzhong to improve dough texture.
180 ml water: Essential for creating the tangzhong slurry.
440 g all-purpose flour: Forms the structure of the dough.
67 g granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough for the cinnamon rolls.
2 tsp instant yeast: Helps the dough rise and achieve the perfect fluffiness.
0.75 tsp fine sea salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
120 ml whole milk, room temperature: Provides richness and aids in dough hydration.
1 large egg, room temperature: Binds the ingredients and adds structure.
4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened: Contributes to the dough’s tenderness.
113 g unsalted butter, room temperature: Used in the filling for added richness.
135 g light brown sugar: Sweetens and enriches the filling.
2 tsp ground cinnamon: Essential for that classic cinnamon roll flavor.
1 cup crumbled candied bacon, reserved: Adds a sweet and savory crunchy texture.
56 g unsalted butter, room temperature: Used in the frosting to create a creamy texture.
57 g cream cheese, room temperature: Adds tanginess and creaminess to the frosting.
95 g powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting for a perfect finish.
2.5–5 ml bourbon whiskey: Enhances the frosting with an extra kick.
30 ml pure maple syrup: Incorporates additional flavor into the frosting.
0.5 cup candied bacon strips, reserved: Used as a garnish for presentation.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Bacon: Preheat your oven to 190°C. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the bacon slices on the tray.
Make the Bacon Glaze: In a mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, maple syrup, bourbon, and black pepper. Evenly spread this mixture over the bacon. Bake on the center rack for 30–40 minutes until the bacon is caramelized and crisp.
Cool the Bacon: Once done, remove the tray from the oven and transfer the bacon strips to a wire rack to cool fully. Reserve 0.5 cup of bacon strips for garnish and chop the remaining bacon into fine crumbs.
Prepare the Tangzhong: In a small saucepan, whisk together the water and 30 g of all-purpose flour over medium heat. Cook while stirring constantly for 4–5 minutes until a thick slurry forms. Transfer this tangzhong to a bowl and allow it to cool.
Mix the Dough: In a stand mixer bowl, combine the remaining 440 g of flour, granulated sugar, instant yeast, and sea salt. Add in the egg, milk, and cooled tangzhong. Mix on low speed with a dough hook for 2 minutes until a cohesive dough forms.
Knead the Dough: With the mixer running, add softened butter in 0.5-tablespoon increments, allowing each to incorporate before adding the next. Knead the dough for 8–10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic, sticking only to the bottom of the bowl. Adjust with more flour or milk if necessary.
Let the Dough Rise: Once kneaded, form the dough into a smooth ball and place it seam-side down in a lightly buttered bowl. Cover and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Roll Out the Dough: Turn the risen dough onto a lightly floured surface and roll it into a rectangle, approximately 38 x 46 cm, with the long side facing you.
Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the room temperature butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until smooth. Spread this mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a 2.5 cm border along the top edge.
Add the Crumbled Bacon: Sprinkle the crumbled candied bacon over the cinnamon filling.
Cut the Rolls: Slice the dough into twelve strips, each 4 cm wide, using a pizza cutter. Roll each strip away from you and arrange them in a parchment-lined 23 x 33 cm pan.
Proof the Rolls: Cover the pan with plastic wrap and let the rolls proof for 1 hour at room temperature until nearly doubled in size. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 162°C.
Bake the Rolls: Bake the rolls on the center rack for 24–30 minutes or until golden brown on top. Let cool in the pan set over a wire rack.
Make the Frosting: In a medium bowl, blend the butter and cream cheese until creamy. Incorporate the powdered sugar, then whisk in maple syrup and bourbon, adjusting the bourbon based on your flavor preference.
Frost and Serve: Spread the frosting over the lukewarm rolls and garnish with the reserved candied bacon strips. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 2 hours
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 3 hours
Servings: 12 rolls
Calories: Approximately 450 per roll

Tips, Storage & Variations

Tips: Make sure your dough is allowed to rise in a warm space; this is crucial for the best texture. Check your bacon regularly while it bakes to prevent burning.
Storage: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They can also be refrigerated for up to a week.
Freezing: Freeze unbaked rolls by assembling them in the pan, covering tightly, and freezing. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Flavor Variations: Consider adding chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, to the filling for an extra crunch. You could also experiment with flavored cream cheese, such as maple or vanilla, for the frosting.

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FAQ

Can I use regular bacon instead of smoked bacon?
Yes, while smoked bacon adds a unique flavor, regular bacon works too.
Can I omit the bourbon from the recipe?
Yes, you can omit bourbon if you prefer a non-alcoholic version, but it adds depth to the flavor.
How do I know when the rolls are done baking?
They should be golden brown on top and spring back when lightly touched.
Can I prepare the dough in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dough, let it rise, and refrigerate it overnight. Shape and bake it the next morning.
What can I substitute for cream cheese in the frosting?
You can use mascarpone or even a dairy-free cream cheese alternative.
Are these rolls good for meal prep?
Absolutely, they can be made ahead of time and stored for later enjoyment.

Conclusion

These Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls are a treat everyone will love. The combination of savory bacon and sweet cinnamon pairs beautifully, making them a perfect addition to your breakfast or brunch recipes. Give this delicious recipe a try and share your experience. For more mouthwatering ideas, check out Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls – Cambrea Bakes or try Don’t Go Bacon My Heart: Bourbon-Maple Bacon Sticky Buns – Crumb for a different take on bacon-infused treats. Enjoy!