Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls

Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls are quite the treat. Imagine waking up to the sweet scent of cinnamon and bacon wafting through your kitchen. It’s a breakfast dream that combines your favorite flavors in a mouthwatering way. The savory crunch of thick-cut bacon, the warmth of cinnamon, and the rich sweetness of maple syrup come together to create a delightful experience. Making these rolls is not just about satisfying your taste buds; it’s about bringing joy to your mornings and perhaps impressing your family or friends. With every bite, you’ll taste the thoughtful combination of bourbon and maple syrup, which elevates the cinnamon rolls to a whole new level. Ready to roll up your sleeves and create something unforgettable? Let’s get to it!

Why This Recipe Works

One of the best things about these Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls is the unique flavor profile created by the combination of bourbon and maple syrup. They aren’t just any ordinary cinnamon rolls; each one bursts with rich, sweet notes balanced by smoky undertones that keep you coming back for more.

Using thick-cut bacon adds a satisfying crunch and a depth of flavor that beautifully contrasts with the sweetness of the rolls. The crispy bites of bacon invite a perfectly savory twist, transforming each roll into a delectable treat.

Additionally, the tangzhong method ensures that the dough is incredibly soft and fluffy. This technique involves cooking a small portion of flour with water, which helps retain moisture and creates that deliciously pillowy texture. You won’t find dry rolls here; instead, you’re in for a lush, enjoyable eating experience!

Why You’ll Love This Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls

These rolls stand out as the ultimate treat for brunch. Picture the excitement on your friends’ faces as you pull out a tray of warm rolls, each one oozing with flavor. They combine beloved breakfast staples into one indulgent recipe that everyone loves.

Moreover, the sweet and salty combination makes these rolls a unique dessert option. It’s difficult to resist the perfect balance of flavors. Bacon lovers and sweet enthusiasts alike will find joy in every bite.

Sharing these rolls is a delight. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, celebrating a special occasion, or simply treating yourself, they become a focal point at any breakfast table. The moment you serve them, they’re guaranteed to impress.

Ingredients

• 1 pound thick-cut bacon
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 4 tablespoons maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons bourbon
• 1 teaspoon cracked black pepper
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (for tangzhong)
• 3/4 cup water
• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (plus more if needed)
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons instant yeast
• 3/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1/2 cup whole milk, room temperature
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• Tangzhong (prepared from above ingredients)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 2/3 cup light brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 1 cup candied bacon strips
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature (for glaze)
• 2 oz cream cheese, room temperature
• 3/4 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup (for glaze)
• 1/2 – 1 teaspoon bourbon (for glaze)
• 1/2 cup candied bacon strips, for topping

Making the Candied Bacon

Start this delicious process by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Lay the uncooked bacon strips on the pan, spreading them out nicely.

Next, mix together the brown sugar, maple syrup, bourbon, and black pepper in a small bowl. Brush this sweet mixture over the bacon slices, ensuring they get coated well. Bake for 30-40 minutes until crispy and golden. Once they’re browned and fragrant, transfer the bacon to a wire cooling rack to cool completely.

Once cooled, chop half of the bacon into strips for topping later and crumble the remainder for filling.

Preparing the Cinnamon Roll Dough

Now it’s time to work on that soft dough. In a small saucepan, whisk together the water and all-purpose flour. Heat it over medium heat for about 4-5 minutes until it thickens. Set this tangzhong mix aside to cool down a bit.

While that cools, grab your stand mixer. Combine the 3 1/2 cups flour with the granulated sugar, instant yeast, and fine sea salt. Then, add in the egg, milk, and the prepared tangzhong. Mix on low speed until a rough dough forms, which should take about 2 minutes.

Gradually throw in the softened butter, mixing it well before adding more. Knead until the dough is nice and smooth—this might take 8 to 10 minutes. Once it’s ready, place the dough in a lightly buttered bowl, cover it up with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot. You want it to double in size, which usually takes about an hour.

Rolling and Filling the Dough

Once your dough has risen, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it into a large rectangle about 15×18 inches in size.

To create that delicious filling, blend together the 4 tablespoons of butter, 2/3 cup light brown sugar, and cinnamon until smooth. Spread this mixture evenly over the dough, making sure to leave a 1-inch border around the edges.

Now, sprinkle your crumbled bacon over the filling. The aroma will already be incredible! Slice the dough into 12 strips, then roll each strip tightly into a spiral shape. Place them in a parchment-lined 9×13 baking pan. Cover the rolls to rise for another hour.

Baking the Rolls

Preheat your oven to 325°F (162°C). Once the rolls have risen nicely and filled the pan, bake them for 24-30 minutes or until they turn a lovely golden brown.

When they’re ready, let them cool on a wire rack. This cooling period lets the texture settle before adding the final touch: the glaze.

Making the Glaze

In a medium bowl, beat together the butter and cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, then swirl in the maple syrup and bourbon. Mix until everything is well combined. You can adjust the amount of bourbon in the glaze based on how strong you want that flavor to be.

Serving Suggestions

These rolls are best served warm, so don’t wait too long to enjoy! Drizzle them generously with the glaze, letting it cascade over the rolls. Pair them with a hot cup of coffee or a cold glass of milk for a perfect morning experience.

Tips for Success

Keep an eye on that bacon while it’s baking. It can go from perfectly crispy to burnt in a snap. Ideally, let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area to maximize fluffiness.

If you like a stronger bourbon taste in your glaze, feel free to adjust the amount. It’s all about what suits your palate best.

Variations

If you’re looking for alternatives, substitute bourbon with a non-alcoholic option like apple cider vinegar for a similar tangy flavor. Feel free to experiment by adding different nuts or dried fruits to the filling, introducing unique flavor twists that you’ll love.

Storage Tips

For any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat gently in the microwave or oven for the best results.

FAQs

1. Can I make the dough in advance?
Yes! Preparing the dough ahead of time is a great idea. You can refrigerate it after kneading, and it’ll be good to go when you’re ready to roll.

2. What can I use instead of bourbon?
If bourbon isn’t your thing, vanilla extract can be a suitable replacement, or you can skip it entirely for a non-alcoholic version.

3. How can I make these cinnamon rolls vegan?
Swap butter for a plant-based option and choose almond or soy milk instead of dairy milk, and they’ll be just as delicious!

4. Can I freeze the rolls?
Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked rolls. Just thaw them out and let them rise before baking as usual.

5. What if my dough doesn’t rise?
Ensure that your yeast is fresh and that the rising environment is warm. If it’s still not rising, try placing the dough in a low-temperature oven for a while.

These Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls celebrate the joy of comfort food. Each roll offers a perfect blend of flavors that embrace both sweetness and savory, making them a delightful addition to any breakfast or brunch. Whether shared or savored alone, every bite is a warm hug. Enjoy making these rolls; they promise to elevate your mornings!

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