Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls
A decadent twist on classic cinnamon rolls, featuring gooey dough swirled with a sweet cinnamon-sugar filling and crispy bacon, finished with a rich maple glaze. These rolls offer a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, making them ideal for breakfast, brunch, or special occasions.
Equipment
- 1 Mixing Bowls For preparing dough, filling, and glaze.
- 1 Rolling Pin For rolling out the dough evenly.
- 1 Baking dish (9x13 inches) Greased to prevent sticking.
- 1 Whisk For mixing the glaze smoothly.
- Optional Pastry brush For spreading melted butter over the dough.
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 3½ cups All-purpose flour Divided; may need more for kneading.
- 1 packet Active dry yeast About 2 1/4 teaspoons.
- ½ cup Granulated sugar Adds sweetness to the dough.
- ½ cup Warm milk Around 110°F (43°C).
- ¼ cup Melted unsalted butter Softened butter works too.
- 2 large Eggs One for dough, one for egg wash (optional).
- 1 tsp Salt Enhances flavor.
Filling Ingredients
- ½ cup Unsalted butter Melted for brushing over dough.
- 1 cup Packed brown sugar Adds caramel notes and gooey texture.
- 2 tbsp Ground cinnamon Adjust to taste.
- 6-8 slices Regular-cut bacon Cooked until crispy and crumbled.
Glaze Ingredients
- 1½ cups Powdered sugar Sifted for smoothness.
- ¼ cup Pure maple syrup Adds authentic flavor; use real maple syrup.
- 2 tbsp Softened unsalted butter Enhances richness.
- 1-2 tbsp Milk or cream to adjust glaze consistency. Optional
Instructions
Step-by-Step Recipe
Prepare the Dough:
- In a mixing bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
- Add the remaining sugar, melted butter, eggs, salt, and 3 cups of flour. Mix until combined. Gradually add the remaining flour, 1/4 cup at a time, until the dough is soft and slightly tacky but not sticky.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Make the Filling:
- While the dough rises, cook the bacon until crispy. Drain on paper towels, then crumble into small pieces.
- In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon. Set aside.
Assemble the Rolls:
- Roll the risen dough into a 16x12-inch rectangle on a floured surface. Brush the dough evenly with melted butter, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the butter, followed by the crumbled bacon.
- Carefully roll the dough tightly from the long edge into a log. Pinch the seam to seal. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces using dental floss or a sharp knife.
- Arrange the rolls in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, leaving space between each roll. Cover and let rise for 30 minutes.
Bake the Rolls:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed. Avoid over-baking to keep them soft.
Make the Glaze:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, maple syrup, softened butter, and milk (if needed) until smooth and drizzleable.
Finish and Serve:
- Drizzle the glaze over the warm rolls. Optionally, sprinkle additional crumbled bacon or candied bacon on top for garnish. Serve warm.
Notes
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- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven to maintain texture.
- Freezing: Freeze unbaked or baked rolls. Wrap tightly to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Substitutions: Use honey or agave syrup instead of maple syrup for a different flavor profile. Plant-based bacon works for vegetarian options.
Frequently Asked Questions
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How do you make the maple bacon filling for cinnamon rolls?
- Combine brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and crispy cooked bacon pieces. Spread melted butter on the dough before sprinkling the mixture evenly.
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What is the ideal baking time and temperature for maple bacon cinnamon rolls?
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.
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Can maple bacon cinnamon rolls be made ahead and frozen?
- Yes, they can be frozen either unbaked or baked. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking or reheating.
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What type of yeast is best for homemade cinnamon rolls?
- Active dry yeast is recommended for its reliable rise and soft texture.
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How can you ensure the cinnamon rolls stay moist after baking?
- Proper kneading, rising, and avoiding over-baking help retain moisture. Covering the rolls while cooling also helps.
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Are there any substitutes for maple syrup in bacon cinnamon rolls?
- Honey or agave syrup can replace maple syrup for similar sweetness with slight flavor differences.
Tips & Tricks
- Flavor Enhancement: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the cinnamon-sugar filling for extra warmth.
- Presentation: Drizzle glaze artfully over the rolls and sprinkle candied bacon bits for a polished look.
- Leftovers: Transform leftover rolls into a bread pudding by soaking them in a custard mixture and baking until set.
Plating and Garnishing
- Garnish: Sprinkle crumbled bacon or chopped nuts over the glazed rolls for added texture and visual appeal.
- Serving Style: Serve warm on a bakery-style tray with a side of fresh fruit or scrambled eggs for brunch.
- Pairings: Pair with coffee, lattes, or yogurt parfaits for a complete breakfast experience.