Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls

Indulge in a whimsical twist on a classic favorite with these Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls. Imagine the heavenly aroma of freshly baked rolls infused with the rich flavors of bourbon, maple syrup, and crispy bacon. Each bite reveals the perfect balance of sweetness from the caramelized bacon and cinnamon, combined with a fluffy, tender dough. These cinnamon rolls are ideal for special occasions like brunch gatherings or cozy weekend breakfasts, sure to impress family and friends alike. The addition of a decadent cream cheese frosting takes these sweet rolls to the next level, creating a delicious treat you won’t soon forget.

Ingredients

450 g smoked bacon: Provides a rich, savory flavor.
110 g light brown sugar: Adds a subtle caramel sweetness.
60 ml pure maple syrup: Offers a natural sweetness and depth.
30 ml bourbon whiskey: Enhances flavor complexity with its warm notes.
1 tsp freshly cracked black pepper: Introduces a hint of spice to balance sweetness.
30 g all-purpose flour: Used in creating the tangzhong, a key for soft dough.
180 ml water: Helps achieve the right consistency in tangzhong.
440 g all-purpose flour: The main ingredient for the dough.
67 g granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough mixture.
2 tsp instant yeast: Essential for dough rising.
0.75 tsp fine sea salt: Enhances flavor and balances sweetness.
120 ml whole milk, room temperature: Adds richness to the dough.
1 large egg, room temperature: Acts as a binder and enriches the dough.
4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened: Contributes to the dough’s tenderness.
113 g unsalted butter, room temperature: For spreading as filling.
135 g light brown sugar: Sweetens the cinnamon roll filling.
2 tsp ground cinnamon: Provides classic cinnamon roll flavor.
1 cup crumbled candied bacon, reserved: Adds a sweet and crunchy texture.
56 g unsalted butter, room temperature: For the frosting to ensure creaminess.
57 g cream cheese, room temperature: Creates a rich and creamy frosting.
95 g powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting.
2.5–5 ml bourbon whiskey: Enhances frosting with deep flavor.
30 ml pure maple syrup: Adds sweetness to the frosting.
0.5 cup candied bacon strips, reserved: For garnishing the rolls.

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 bowl, mix together the brown sugar, maple syrup, bourbon, and black pepper. Spread this mixture evenly over the bacon slices.
Bake the bacon on the center rack for 30–40 minutes until it becomes richly caramelized and crisp. Once done, remove from the oven and transfer the strips to a wire rack to cool completely. Reserve half a cup of the strips for finishing the rolls and chop the remaining bacon into fine crumbs.
To make the tangzhong, whisk together the water and 30 g of flour in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, for 4–5 minutes until a thick slurry forms. Transfer the tangzhong to a bowl and allow it to cool.
In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the remaining 440 g of flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Add the egg, milk, and cooled tangzhong to the mixture. Using a dough hook, mix on low speed for 2 minutes until a cohesive dough forms.
While the mixer is running, gradually add the softened butter in 0.5-tablespoon increments, allowing each addition to fully incorporate before adding the next. Knead the dough for 8–10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic, sticking only to the bottom of the bowl. Adjust with more flour or milk if necessary to achieve optimal texture.
Shape the dough into a smooth ball and place it seam-side down in a lightly buttered large bowl. Cover and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
Once risen, turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it out into a rectangle measuring approximately 38 x 46 cm with the long side closest to you.
In a separate mixing bowl, combine the room temperature butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until smooth. Using an offset spatula, evenly spread the filling 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 place them neatly 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 they are nearly doubled in volume. While they rise, preheat your oven to 162°C (325°F).
Bake the rolls on the center rack for 24–30 minutes or until they are golden brown on top. Allow to cool in the pan on a wire rack.
For the frosting, blend the butter and cream cheese in a medium bowl until creamy. Gradually incorporate the powdered sugar, then whisk in the maple syrup and bourbon, adjusting the bourbon to taste for desired flavor intensity.
Once the rolls are lukewarm, spread the frosting generously over the top. Garnish with the reserved candied bacon strips and serve immediately.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 2 hours (includes rising)
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 3 hours
Servings: 12 rolls
Calories: Approximately 400 per roll

Tips, Storage & Variations

When making the dough, ensure your ingredients are at room temperature for better incorporation.
Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
You can freeze unbaked rolls by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then storing in the freezer for up to 2 months. Bake directly from the freezer, adding an extra 5–10 minutes to the baking time.
Consider adding chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, to the filling for added crunch and flavor.

FAQ

{image_1}

Q: Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the rolls the night before, refrigerate them, and bake the next morning.

Q: What can I substitute for bourbon?
A: You can use apple cider or omit it entirely for a non-alcoholic version.

Q: Can I use different kinds of bacon?
A: While smoked bacon is recommended, you can use any preferred bacon, although it may alter the flavor profile.

Q: Is there a way to make these gluten-free?
A: You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend, adjusting as necessary.

Q: How do I reheat leftover rolls?
A: Simply warm them in the oven at 160°C (325°F) for about 10 minutes, or in the microwave for quicker reheating.

Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Absolutely! Just make sure you have a large enough baking dish for the increased quantity.

Conclusion

These Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful addition to your breakfast or brunch menu that is sure to impress your guests. Their rich flavors and tempting aroma make for a memorable treat any time of day. Be sure to try this recipe, and if you’re looking for more inspiration, check out other delicious options like Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls or Don’t Go Bacon My Heart: Bourbon-Maple Bacon Sticky Buns. Enjoy every last bite!