There’s a certain joy that comes from the kitchen when the scent of bourbon maple and crispy bacon wafts through the air. Picture this: A leisurely Sunday morning, the sun peeking through the window, while you whip up a batch of Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls that will elevate your breakfast game to an entirely new level. These rolls are not just a treat; they’re a celebration of flavors where sweet meets savory, creating an indulgent delight that’s perfect for sharing or savoring all by yourself.
Whether you’re hosting a brunch affair or simply want to surprise your loved ones with a gourmet experience, these rolls check all the boxes: fluffy dough, a rich filling, and a creamy glaze that ties it all together. Plus, you can customize them to fit any dietary preference—imagine enjoying them with turkey bacon or even a gluten-free twist! Let’s dive into the recipe and bring some joyful indulgence into your kitchen today!
Why are Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls so special?
Irresistible aroma: Your kitchen will be filled with the tantalizing scent of warm cinnamon and crispy bacon.
Decadent filling: Each roll boasts a perfect blend of sweet and savory, balancing flavors that melt in your mouth.
Versatile options: Easily customize your rolls by swapping ingredients—try turkey bacon or a gluten-free flour blend for dietary preferences.
Crowd-pleaser: These rolls are ideal for brunch gatherings, ensuring everyone leaves happy and satisfied.
Shortcut controls: Enjoy the gourmet taste in a relatively short time, even on a busy weekend morning.
Make-ahead potential: Prepared dough can be stored overnight, allowing for an easy, stress-free breakfast option.
Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls Ingredients
For the Dough
- All-Purpose Flour – The main structure for the dough; consider using a gluten-free blend for a GF version.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the dough, adding a touch of lightness.
- Instant Yeast – Essential for helping the dough rise and become fluffy.
- Fine Sea Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavor.
- Whole Milk – Hydrates the dough and adds richness; non-dairy options work too.
- Egg – Binds ingredients and enriches the dough’s texture.
- Unsalted Butter – Ensures a moist and tender dough; remember to soften it first.
- Ground Cinnamon – Infuses warmth and flavor into the filling.
For the Filling
- Smoked Bacon – Adds a savory depth; swap for turkey bacon for a lighter variant.
- Light Brown Sugar – Contributes to a caramelized flavor; coconut sugar is a great substitute.
- Pure Maple Syrup – Infuses the filling with sweetness and moisture.
- Black Pepper – Offers a surprising kick that enhances the sweetness.
For the Glaze
- Cream Cheese – Provides a creamy, tangy texture that makes the glaze irresistible.
- Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the glaze to complement the rolls perfectly.
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness to the glaze; make sure it’s softened.
- Bourbon Whiskey – Gives a warm, nuanced flavor; consider strong brewed coffee for a non-alcoholic option.
For Garnish
- Reserved Candied Bacon Strips – Adds crunch and visual appeal to the finished rolls; must-try for the perfect finish!
How to Make Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls
Prepare Bacon: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange bacon strips and mix brown sugar, maple syrup, bourbon, and black pepper in a bowl. Coat the bacon and bake for 30-40 minutes until crisp. Once cooled, chop most of the bacon into fine crumbs, reserving ½ cup for garnish.
Make Tangzhong: In a small saucepan, whisk together flour and water over medium heat until a thick slurry forms. Transfer to a bowl and allow it to cool.
Prepare Dough: In a stand mixer, combine flour, granulated sugar, instant yeast, and fine sea salt. Add the egg, whole milk, and cooled tangzhong; mix on low speed until a dough forms. Gradually add softened unsalted butter while mixing, kneading for about 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
First Rise: Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a buttered bowl. Cover and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
Assemble Rolls: Roll out the dough into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick. Spread softened butter evenly over the surface, then mix together cinnamon, light brown sugar, and crumbled bacon before sprinkling it generously on top. Roll the dough tightly into a log, slice into individual rolls, and place them in a baking pan. Let them rise again for 1 hour.
Bake: Preheat your oven to 325°F (162°C). Bake the rolls for 24-30 minutes until they are golden brown and cooked through.
Make Glaze: In a mixing bowl, blend cream cheese and unsalted butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, maple syrup, and bourbon; mix until you achieve a creamy consistency.
Finish Rolls: Spread the glaze generously over the warm rolls and top with the reserved bacon pieces for an extra touch of indulgence before serving.
Optional: Drizzle with additional maple syrup for an even sweeter finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls
Room Temperature: Store tightly covered at room temperature for up to 2 days. Be sure to let them cool completely to maintain freshness.
Fridge: You can refrigerate the rolls for up to 3 days, but ensure they’re in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual rolls wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat gently in the microwave or oven at a low temperature until warmed through and the glaze is oozy—just the way you want your Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls!
Expert Tips for Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature. This promotes better incorporation and leads to a more consistent dough.
- Proper Bacon Prep: Cook bacon until nicely crisp but avoid burnt edges, as this can introduce bitterness to your rolls.
- Tangzhong Technique: Incorporating tangzhong creates a softer, longer-lasting dough. Don’t skip this step for the best Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls!
- Rolling Technique: Roll the dough tightly when forming the log. This prevents the filling from escaping and ensures evenly shaped rolls.
- Cooling Time: Allow the rolls to cool slightly after baking before adding the glaze. This helps the frosting set and prevents it from melting away.
- Make Ahead: Prep the dough the night before and keep it refrigerated. In the morning, simply let it rise before baking for a stress-free brunch!
Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls Variations
Feel free to mix things up and personalize your Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls for a unique culinary experience that tempts your taste buds.
Dairy-Free: Swap whole milk for almond or oat milk and use coconut oil in place of butter for a light yet delicious alternative.
Turkey Bacon: For a lighter twist, replace regular bacon with turkey bacon. It pairs beautifully with the sweet glaze while keeping it lower in fat.
Gluten-Free: Use a high-quality gluten-free flour blend to cater to those avoiding gluten, ensuring everyone can enjoy these scrumptious rolls.
Coffee Infusion: Swap bourbon for strong brewed coffee in the glaze to create a robust, deliciously aromatic alternative that still keeps the warmth.
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling for an irresistible crunch that lends a delightful texture and flavor depth.
Spicy Surprise: Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes with your cinnamon for an unexpected spicy kick that beautifully complements the sweetness.
Fruit Option: Incorporate diced apples or pears into the filling layer for a fruity explosion that brightens the overall flavor profile.
Maple Cream Cheese Variation: For a cream cheese glaze with a twist, blend in extra maple syrup and a touch of vanilla to enhance the already sweet glaze.
Each variation brings a new layer of delight, making your baking experience both fun and full of surprises!
Make Ahead Options
These Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough and the filling up to 24 hours in advance, letting you savor fresh, warm rolls on busy mornings. Simply complete steps 1 through 5, then cover the assembled rolls tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, let them come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking as directed. For even more convenience, you can freeze the uncooked rolls for up to 3 months. Just place them in an airtight container, and when you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking. Trust me, they’ll be just as delicious, making your mornings much easier and sweeter!
What to Serve with Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls?
There’s nothing quite like a festive breakfast spread that complements the indulgent flavors of these delightful rolls.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant medley of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing contrast and balances the sweetness of the rolls.
- Creamy Scrambled Eggs: Light and fluffy eggs serve as a savory counterpart to the sweet rolls, creating a satisfying breakfast experience.
- Maple-Glazed Sausages: Sweet and savory sausages mirror the flavors in the rolls, enhancing the brunch theme with an irresistible twist.
- Chilled Mimosas: A sparkling citrus drink brings a bubbly brightness to the table, making your gathering feel truly celebratory.
- Crispy Hash Browns: Crunchy, golden hash browns add texture, making every bite of this brunch a delightful journey of flavors.
- Coffee or Bourbon-Spiked Latte: Savor the rich flavors of freshly brewed coffee or dress it up with a splash of bourbon for a warming beverage.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layers of yogurt, granola, and berries create a light option, balancing the decadent taste of the rolls wonderfully.
- Almond Croissants: For a touch of luxury, flaky croissants with almond filling can elevate your brunch table and add delightful variety.
- Spiced Chai Tea: A warm cup of chai will echo the cinnamon notes in the rolls while offering a cozy, aromatic pairing.
Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best bacon for my rolls?
Absolutely! When selecting bacon, look for thick-cut smoked bacon for that perfect balance of crispiness and flavor. Look for slices without dark spots; they often indicate over-cooked or less fresh meat. You can also substitute with turkey bacon for a lighter option, but keep in mind it won’t provide the same depth of flavor as traditional bacon.
How long can I store Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls?
I recommend storing your cinnamon rolls at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days for optimal freshness. If you want them to last a bit longer, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to let them cool completely before sealing them, as residual heat can create moisture that leads to sogginess.
Can I freeze these rolls? If so, how?
Yes, you can freeze Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls for up to 2 months! To do this, wrap each individual roll tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge. Then, reheat gently in the oven at a low temperature or microwave them until warmed through—perfect for a quick breakfast treat!
What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise?
Very frustrating, but don’t worry! If your dough hasn’t risen after the first hour, it might be due to the yeast being expired or not activating properly. To troubleshoot, make sure your ingredients are at room temperature (especially the milk). If you suspect the yeast is the culprit, do a simple test by dissolving it in warm water with a bit of sugar; if it bubbles up after 10 minutes, it’s good to go!
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Absolutely! If you’re cooking for guests with dietary restrictions, you can easily make these Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls gluten-free by using a certified gluten-free flour blend. For those avoiding alcohol, substitute bourbon with strong brewed coffee or even vanilla extract for delicious flavor without the spirits. Always check bacon labels for allergens if anyone has sensitivities!
Indulgent Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls: A Game-Changer!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange bacon strips and mix brown sugar, maple syrup, bourbon, and black pepper in a bowl. Coat the bacon and bake for 30-40 minutes until crisp. Once cooled, chop most of the bacon into fine crumbs, reserving ½ cup for garnish.
- In a small saucepan, whisk together flour and water over medium heat until a thick slurry forms. Transfer to a bowl and allow it to cool.
- In a stand mixer, combine flour, granulated sugar, instant yeast, and fine sea salt. Add the egg, whole milk, and cooled tangzhong; mix on low speed until a dough forms. Gradually add softened unsalted butter while mixing, kneading for about 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a buttered bowl. Cover and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- Roll out the dough into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick. Spread softened butter evenly over the surface, then mix together cinnamon, light brown sugar, and crumbled bacon before sprinkling it generously on top. Roll the dough tightly into a log, slice into individual rolls, and place them in a baking pan. Let them rise again for 1 hour.
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (162°C). Bake the rolls for 24-30 minutes until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- In a mixing bowl, blend cream cheese and unsalted butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, maple syrup, and bourbon; mix until you achieve a creamy consistency.
- Spread the glaze generously over the warm rolls and top with the reserved bacon pieces for an extra touch of indulgence before serving.
