Introduction
Imagine biting into a soft, fluffy cinnamon roll swirled with rich brown sugar, smoky bacon, and warm cinnamon, then drizzled with a bourbon maple glaze—a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and boozy indulgence!
These Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls take the classic cinnamon roll to the next level. They are perfect for brunch, holiday mornings, or special weekend treats. The smoky crunch of crispy bacon combined with the deep, caramel-like sweetness of bourbon and maple syrup makes these rolls absolutely unforgettable.
Ready to impress your friends and family? Let’s bake these next-level cinnamon rolls!
Ingredients for Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls
For the Dough:
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) instant yeast
- 1 tsp salt
- ¾ cup warm milk (about 110°F; dairy or non-dairy)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
For the Bacon Cinnamon Filling:
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 6 slices crispy cooked bacon, crumbled
- 3 tbsp butter, softened
For the Bourbon Maple Glaze:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 3 tbsp pure maple syrup
- 1 tbsp bourbon (or vanilla extract if omitting alcohol)
- 1-2 tbsp milk or heavy cream (to adjust consistency)
How to Make Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls
Step 1: Make the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
- Add warm milk, melted butter, and egg. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1-1.5 hours until doubled in size.
Step 2: Prepare the Bacon Cinnamon Filling
- Cook bacon until crispy, then crumble into small pieces.
- In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon.
- Set aside softened butter to spread on the dough later.
Step 3: Roll and Fill the Dough
- Once the dough has risen, roll it out into a 12×18-inch rectangle.
- Spread softened butter evenly over the dough.
- Sprinkle with the brown sugar-cinnamon mixture and crumbled bacon.
- Roll the dough tightly from the long side, then slice into 12 rolls.
Step 4: Second Rise & Bake
- Place the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover and let them rise again for 30-45 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Step 5: Make the Bourbon Maple Glaze
- In a bowl, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, maple syrup, and bourbon until smooth.
- Add milk or cream as needed for a pourable consistency.
Step 6: Glaze & Serve!
Drizzle the warm rolls generously with bourbon maple glaze, sprinkle extra bacon crumbles on top, and enjoy!
Servings & Timing
- Servings: 12 rolls
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Rise Time: 1.5 – 2 hours
- Bake Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: ~2.5 hours
Variations & Customizations
1. Make It Alcohol-Free
- Replace bourbon with vanilla extract or apple cider.
2. Add Extra Flavor
- Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts in the filling for crunch.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth.
3. Try a Different Glaze
- Swap the bourbon glaze for a maple caramel drizzle!
4. Make It Spicier
- Add a dash of cayenne or smoked paprika for heat!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
How to Store
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerate: Keep in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freeze: Wrap individually and freeze for up to 2 months.
How to Reheat
- Oven: Bake at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat for 20-30 seconds.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use store-bought dough?
Yes! Pillsbury or frozen dough can be a quick alternative.
2. Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! Let them rise in the fridge overnight, then bake in the morning.
3. What’s the best bourbon to use?
A good-quality bourbon like Maker’s Mark, Bulleit, or Woodford Reserve works great!
4. Can I skip the bacon?
Yes! They’ll still be delicious without it.
5. How do I make the dough softer?
Use bread flour instead of all-purpose for extra fluffiness.
6. What’s the best way to cut the rolls?
Use unflavored dental floss for clean, even slices!
7. Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free all-purpose flour with xanthan gum.
8. What’s a good substitute for maple syrup?
Honey or brown sugar syrup works well.
9. Can I add espresso to the glaze?
Yes! A shot of espresso will enhance the flavor beautifully.
10. What’s the best way to serve them?
Pair with coffee, bourbon, or a cold glass of milk!
Conclusion
These Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls are a perfect mix of sweet, smoky, and indulgent flavors. Whether you’re making them for a holiday brunch, a weekend breakfast, or just because you deserve a treat, they’re guaranteed to impress!
Try them out and let me know—what’s your favorite way to enjoy cinnamon rolls? 🥓🥃✨
