Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls

Indulge your senses with these decadent Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls, a delightful twist on a classic breakfast treat. Imagine the aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls mingling with the sweet, smoky scent of caramelized bacon. Each bite reveals a tender, fluffy roll filled with sweet cinnamon sugar and crunchy crumbles of candied bacon, topped with a luscious bourbon cream cheese frosting. Ideal for weekend brunches, special occasions, or simply spoiling yourself, these rolls are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The unique combination of flavors and textures makes them not only a delectable dessert but also a show-stopping centerpiece that will leave your guests asking for seconds.

Ingredients

450 g smoked bacon: Adds a rich smokiness and savory flavor to balance the sweetness.
110 g light brown sugar: Contributes a deep caramel flavor that complements the bacon.
60 ml pure maple syrup: Provides natural sweetness and that quintessential maple flavor.
30 ml bourbon whiskey: Infuses a warm, rich undertone that enhances the overall taste.
1 tsp freshly cracked black pepper: Adds a hint of spice and elevates the flavor profile.
30 g all-purpose flour: Used for the tangzhong, which helps create a soft and fluffy dough.
180 ml water: Necessary for making the tangzhong and ensuring the dough stays moist.
440 g all-purpose flour: The main structure of the rolls, giving them necessary strength and texture.
67 g granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough and balances the flavors.
2 tsp instant yeast: Allows the dough to rise quickly, producing a light and airy roll.
0.75 tsp fine sea salt: Enhances flavor and balances sweetness.
120 ml whole milk, room temperature: Adds richness and moisture to the dough.
1 large egg, room temperature: Helps to bind ingredients and enrich the dough.
4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened: Provides tenderness to the dough.
113 g unsalted butter, room temperature: Used for the filling to ensure a creamy texture.
135 g light brown sugar: Sweetens the filling, enhancing the cinnamon flavor.
2 tsp ground cinnamon: The spice that gives classic cinnamon rolls their iconic flavor.
1 cup crumbled candied bacon, reserved: Adds additional texture and sweetness to the filling.
56 g unsalted butter, room temperature: For the cream cheese frosting, adding richness.
57 g cream cheese, room temperature: Gives the frosting a tangy flavor and creamy texture.
95 g powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting for a delectable finish.
2.5–5 ml bourbon whiskey: Adjust to taste for an extra kick in the frosting.
30 ml pure maple syrup: Enhances the sweetness of the frosting.
0.5 cup candied bacon strips, reserved: For garnish, adding a pleasing crunch.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the oven to 190°C and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the bacon slices on the prepared tray.
In a bowl, combine brown sugar, maple syrup, bourbon, and black pepper. Evenly spread this mixture over the bacon.
Bake on the center rack for 30 to 40 minutes or until the bacon is richly caramelized and crisp. Remove from the oven and transfer the strips to a wire rack to cool completely. Reserve 0.5 cup of strips for finishing and chop the remaining bacon into fine crumbs.
Make the tangzhong: In a small saucepan, whisk together water and 30 g of flour. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, for 4 to 5 minutes until a thick slurry forms. Transfer to a bowl and let it cool.
In a stand mixer bowl, combine the remaining flour (440 g), sugar (67 g), yeast, and salt. Add the egg, milk, and cooled tangzhong. Mix on low speed with a dough hook for 2 minutes until a cohesive dough forms.
With the mixer running, add the softened butter in 0.5-tablespoon increments, letting each piece integrate before adding the next. Continue kneading the dough for 8 to 10 minutes until smooth and elastic, sticking only to the bottom of the bowl. Adjust with flour or milk if necessary.
Shape the dough into a smooth ball. Place it seam-side down in a lightly buttered bowl. Cover and let it rise in a warm area for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Turn the risen 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.
Prepare the filling: In a mixing bowl, combine room temperature butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until smooth. Use an offset spatula to evenly spread this filling over the dough, leaving a 2.5 cm border along the top edge.
Sprinkle 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. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 162°C.
Bake the rolls on the center rack for 24 to 30 minutes, or until golden brown on top. Let them cool in the pan set over a wire rack.
Prepare the frosting: In a medium bowl, blend butter and cream cheese until creamy. Gradually incorporate powdered sugar, then whisk in maple syrup and bourbon, adjusting bourbon to taste.
Spread frosting over the lukewarm rolls and garnish with the reserved candied bacon strips. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Recipe Details

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

Tips, Storage & Variations

Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They can also be refrigerated for up to a week.
For longer storage, wrap individual rolls in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for fresh taste.
You can use leftover candied bacon for added crunch in salads or other desserts, or swap it for pecans for a different flavor.

FAQ

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Can I make these cinnamon rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and fill the rolls ahead of time, then refrigerate them overnight before baking.
What can I use instead of bourbon?
You can substitute bourbon with any whiskey, or omit it entirely and use vanilla extract for the frosting.
Can I use store-bought cinnamon rolls?
Yes, you can use store-bought dough and incorporate crispy bacon for a quick version.
How do I ensure my rolls are fluffy?
Properly knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size.
Can I add nuts to the filling?
Absolutely! Chopped pecans or walnuts can add great texture alongside the bacon.
Is it possible to make these rolls vegan?
Yes, substitute the butter and milk with plant-based alternatives and use a flax egg instead of a regular egg.

Conclusion

These Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls are sure to become a favorite in your household. Their unique flavors and comforting textures make them perfect for any gatherings or just a cozy morning treat. I highly encourage you to try making these remarkable rolls and let them become a staple in your brunch repertoire. For more delicious ways to incorporate bacon into sweet treats, check out Cambrea Bakes and explore other variations with Crumb’s recipe for sticky buns! Enjoy your baking adventure!