Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls

Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect blend of sweet and savory, making them an irresistible treat for breakfast or dessert. These rolls combine the rich flavors of maple syrup and crispy bacon, all enveloped in homemade cinnamon roll dough. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or just treating yourself, these rolls will surely impress anyone who takes a bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, these cinnamon rolls are accessible even for novice bakers.
• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of maple syrup and bacon creates a unique sweet and salty profile that is hard to resist.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for any occasion—breakfast, brunch, or dessert—these rolls bring joy to every table.
• Homemade Goodness: Enjoy the satisfaction of baking from scratch with fresh ingredients.
• Crowd-Pleasing: These rolls are sure to be a hit; everyone loves warm, gooey cinnamon rolls.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the delicious world of Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will help streamline your baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Measuring cups
• Mixing bowls
• Rolling pin
• Baking sheet

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Saves time and effort when mixing dough, ensuring a uniform texture.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are crucial for baking success; they help maintain consistency.
• Rolling pin: Essential for rolling out the dough evenly for perfect cinnamon rolls.
• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface to bake your rolls, ensuring they rise beautifully.

Ingredients

To make these delightful Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls, gather the following ingredients:

For the Dough

• 1 pound thick-cut bacon
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 4 tablespoons maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons bourbon (replace with apple juice or vinegar)
• 1 teaspoon cracked black pepper
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup water
• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (see notes for measuring below)
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons instant yeast
• 3/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1/2 cup whole milk (room temperature)
• 1 large egg (room temperature)

For the Filling

• Tangzhong from above
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
• 2/3 cup light brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon

For the Topping

• 1 cup candied bacon strips

For the Glaze

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 2 oz cream cheese (room temperature)
• 3/4 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1/2 – 1 teaspoon bourbon (replace with apple juice or vinegar)
• 1/2 cup candied bacon strips (for the tops)

Servings: 12
Prep Time: PT180M
Cook Time: PT25M
Total Time: PT205M
Nutrition Facts: Calories: 817 kcal, Protein: 6 g, Carbohydrates: 72 g, Fat: 56 g
Categories: Breakfast, Dessert

How to Make Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Bacon

Begin by cooking the thick-cut bacon until crispy. Drain on paper towels and then chop it into small pieces. Reserve some pieces for topping later.

Step 2: Make the Dough

In a stand mixer bowl, combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. In another bowl, mix warm milk and egg. Gradually add this mixture into the dry ingredients while mixing on low speed until combined. Knead until smooth.

Step 3: Add Tangzhong and Butter

Once your dough is formed, incorporate tangzhong and softened butter into it. Knead until fully integrated.

Step 4: Let It Rise

Cover your dough with a damp cloth or plastic wrap in a warm place. Allow it to rise until doubled in size—about an hour.

Step 5: Roll Out the Dough

After rising, punch down the dough and roll it out into a rectangle on a floured surface.

Step 6: Add Filling

Spread softened butter over the rolled-out dough. Sprinkle with light brown sugar and cinnamon evenly across. Top with chopped candied bacon pieces.

Step 7: Roll & Slice

Roll up the dough tightly from one end to another. Cut into even slices about one inch thick.

Step 8: Second Rise

Place cinnamon roll slices in a greased baking dish. Cover again and let rise for about 30 minutes.

Step 9: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake rolls for about 25 minutes until golden brown.

Step 10: Prepare Glaze

While baking, mix cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar along with maple syrup and bourbon alternative. Mix well.

Step 11: Glaze & Serve

Once baked, drizzle glaze over warm cinnamon rolls. Top with reserved candied bacon pieces before serving.

Enjoy your homemade Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls! They make any morning special!

How to Serve Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls

Serving Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls is a delightful way to enjoy their sweet and savory flavors. These rolls can be presented in various ways to enhance your breakfast or dessert experience.

For Breakfast

• Serve warm with a drizzle of extra maple syrup for an indulgent morning treat.
• Pair with fresh fruit, such as strawberries or blueberries, to add a refreshing contrast.

As a Dessert

• Top with whipped cream for a rich and creamy finish.
• Serve alongside vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert option.

At Brunch Gatherings

• Present on a large platter, garnished with mint leaves for an appealing display.
• Offer different toppings like nuts or additional maple syrup for guests to customize their rolls.

How to Perfect Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls

Perfecting these cinnamon rolls takes some careful attention but is well worth the effort. Here are some tips to make them shine.

• Use fresh yeast: Ensure your instant yeast is fresh for the best rise and fluffy texture.
• Knead the dough thoroughly: Proper kneading develops gluten, which gives the rolls their soft texture.
• Let the dough rise properly: Allow enough time for the dough to double in size, enhancing flavor and texture.
• Don’t skip the glaze: The bourbon-infused glaze complements the rolls perfectly, adding moisture and sweetness.
• Experiment with toppings: Try adding nuts or extra spices to customize your rolls further.

Best Side Dishes for Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls

Pairing side dishes with Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls can elevate your meal. Here are some great options that complement their flavors beautifully.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the sweetness of the rolls.
2. Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy, crunchy contrast.
3. Scrambled Eggs – Fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein and balance the richness of the rolls.
4. Hash Browns – Crispy hash browns introduce savory notes that pair well with sweet cinnamon rolls.
5. Oven-Baked Sausages – Flavorful sausages can enhance the overall breakfast experience without overpowering it.
6. Cottage Cheese – Creamy cottage cheese topped with fruits offers a light side that complements the richness of the rolls.
7. Chia Seed Pudding – A healthy, creamy option that adds a unique texture alongside your cinnamon rolls.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls can be straightforward, but avoiding a few common mistakes will ensure your rolls turn out perfectly.

• Using the wrong flour – Always use all-purpose flour for the best texture. Avoid using bread flour, as it will make the rolls dense.
• Overproofing the dough – Allowing the dough to rise too long can cause it to collapse. Keep an eye on the dough and let it rise until it has doubled in size.
• Skipping room temperature ingredients – Cold milk or eggs can hinder yeast activation. Make sure all dairy and eggs are at room temperature before mixing.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately – Using too much or too little flour can throw off the recipe. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precise measurements.
• Ignoring the chilling time – If your dough is sticky, refrigerate it for 30 minutes before rolling out. This makes it easier to work with and shape.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• If you want to preserve freshness, place parchment paper between layers of rolls.

Freezing Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls

• Wrap individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
• Store in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered with foil for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat a single roll for about 15-20 seconds on medium power until warm.
• Stovetop – Place rolls in a pan over low heat, cover, and warm gently for a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls.

Can I make Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls without bacon?

Yes! You can replace bacon with candied nuts or skip them entirely for a vegetarian option that still tastes great.

What can I use instead of bourbon?

You can substitute bourbon with apple juice or maple extract for flavor without alcohol.

How do I customize my Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls?

Feel free to add nuts like pecans or walnuts, or experiment with different spices like nutmeg for unique flavors.

Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

Final Thoughts

Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls are not just delicious but also versatile. They combine sweet and savory flavors that make them perfect for breakfast or dessert. Don’t hesitate to customize them with your favorite ingredients; enjoy experimenting with different toppings or filling options! Try this delectable treat today!