Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls

Indulge in the delightful combination of flavors found in Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls. These decadent treats feature soft, fluffy rolls infused with a sweet and savory bacon filling, while a luscious maple-bourbon frosting ties it all together. The aroma wafting through your kitchen as they bake is irresistible—expect a warm, inviting scent that beckons everyone to the table. Perfect for special occasions, brunches, or simply to satisfy a sweet tooth, these cinnamon rolls will leave you craving more. With a luxurious texture and a unique twist on a classic recipe, they are sure to impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

450 g smoked bacon: Adds a rich, smoky flavor that beautifully complements the sweetness of the rolls.
110 g light brown sugar: Provides sweetness and a hint of molasses flavor for depth.
60 ml pure maple syrup: Imparts a natural sweetness and a lovely maple profile to the dish.
30 ml bourbon whiskey: Adds complexity and warmth to both the bacon glaze and the frosting.
1 tsp freshly cracked black pepper: Introduces a subtle kick that balances the sweetness.
30 g all-purpose flour: Used to create a thick slurry for the tangzhong method.
180 ml water: Works with flour to form the tangzhong, contributing to the rolls’ fluffiness.
440 g all-purpose flour: The base for the dough, providing structure and strength.
67 g granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough for a delectable treat.
2 tsp instant yeast: Helps the dough rise for a light and airy texture.
0.75 tsp fine sea salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
120 ml whole milk, room temperature: Adds richness and moisture to the dough.
1 large egg, room temperature: Provides structure and helps achieve a tender roll.
4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened: Contributes flavor and tenderness to the dough.
113 g unsalted butter, room temperature: Used in the filling to create a creamy texture.
135 g light brown sugar: Sweetens the filling and enhances the overall flavor.
2 tsp ground cinnamon: Essential for the classic cinnamon roll essence.
1 cup crumbled candied bacon, reserved: Adds sweetness and texture to the filling.
56 g unsalted butter, room temperature: For the creamy frosting that tops the rolls.
57 g cream cheese, room temperature: Adds tanginess and creaminess to the frosting.
95 g powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting to perfection.
2.5–5 ml bourbon whiskey: Adjust according to taste for extra flavor in the frosting.
30 ml pure maple syrup: Complements the bourbon for a beautifully flavored frosting.
0.5 cup candied bacon strips, reserved: For garnish, adding an extra touch of indulgence.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the bacon slices on the prepared tray.
In a mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, maple syrup, bourbon, and black pepper. Spread this mixture evenly over the bacon slices.
Bake the bacon in the center of the oven for 30 to 40 minutes until it is richly caramelized and crisp. Remove from the oven and transfer the bacon strips to a wire rack to cool completely. Reserve 0.5 cup of strips for later use and chop the remaining bacon into fine crumbs.
In a small saucepan, whisk together the water and 30 g of flour. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly for 4 to 5 minutes, until a thick slurry forms. Transfer the tangzhong mixture to a bowl and allow it to cool.
In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the remaining flour, granulated sugar, yeast, and salt. Add the egg, milk, and cooled tangzhong. Mix on low speed with the dough hook for 2 minutes until a cohesive dough forms.
With the mixer running, add the softened butter in 0.5-tablespoon increments, allowing each piece to incorporate fully before adding the next. Continue kneading the dough for 8 to 10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic, sticking only to the bottom of the bowl. Adjust the dough with more flour or milk if necessary.
Form the dough into a smooth ball and place it seam-side down in a large, lightly buttered bowl. Cover the bowl and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and roll it out into a rectangle measuring approximately 38 x 46 cm, with the long side closest to you.
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.
Sprinkle the crumbled candied bacon evenly over the cinnamon sugar filling.
Slice the dough into twelve 4 cm wide strips using a pizza cutter. Roll each strip away from you and arrange them in a parchment-lined 23 x 33 cm pan.
Cover the pan with plastic wrap and let the rolls proof for 1 hour at room temperature until nearly doubled in volume. During this time, preheat your oven to 162°C (325°F).
Bake the rolls in the center of the oven for 24 to 30 minutes or until they are golden brown on top. Let them cool in the pan set over a wire rack.
In a medium bowl, blend the remaining butter and cream cheese until creamy. Incorporate the powdered sugar, then whisk in the maple syrup and bourbon, adjusting the bourbon to taste.
Once the rolls are lukewarm, spread the frosting over them. Garnish with the reserved candied bacon strips and serve immediately.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 2 hours
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 3 hours
Servings: 12
Calories: Approximately 500 per roll

Tips, Storage & Variations

Tips: Ensure your dough is properly kneaded for the right texture. If your kitchen is cold, place the dough in a warm oven (turned off) to rise.
Storage: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They can also be refrigerated for a week.
Freezing: You can freeze unbaked rolls. Assemble them in the pan, cover tightly, and freeze. When ready to bake, let them thaw and rise before baking.
Variations: Try adding nuts like pecans or walnuts to the filling for extra crunch or replace some of the bourbon in the frosting with extra maple syrup for a sweeter taste.

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FAQ

1. Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the rolls up to the proofing stage and refrigerate them overnight. Allow them to come to room temperature before baking.

2. How do I know when the rolls are done?
The rolls should be golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped. You can also use a toothpick; it should come out clean.

3. Can I use regular bacon instead of smoked?
Absolutely! Regular bacon will work just fine, but smoked bacon adds an extra layer of flavor.

4. What if I don’t have bourbon?
You can substitute with additional maple syrup or omit it altogether for a non-alcoholic version.

5. Can I use other types of flour?
While all-purpose flour is recommended, you can try bread flour for a chewier texture.

6. How should I serve these rolls?
These rolls are best served warm, preferably right after frosting, for maximum gooeyness and flavor.

Conclusion

Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful treat that everyone will love, combining sweet, savory, and creamy notes. This recipe is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or anytime you want to impress family and friends. I hope you give this recipe a try and share your delicious results! For more delectable variations, consider checking out this Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls or enjoy another twist with these Don’t Go Bacon My Heart: Bourbon-Maple Bacon Sticky Buns. Happy baking!

Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls