These Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful twist on a classic breakfast favorite, combining the sweet flavor of maple syrup with the savory crunch of bacon. Perfect for a weekend brunch or a special occasion, these rolls are sure to impress your family and friends.
Why make this recipe
Not only are Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls delicious, but they also bring together the comforting flavors of sweet and savory. The fluffy dough, rich buttery filling, and drizzle of maple glaze create an irresistible treat that can brighten anyone’s day. Plus, making them from scratch allows you to enjoy the delightful aroma filling your home as they bake.
Ingredients
- 1 cup whole milk, warmed to 110°F
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (one packet)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar, divided
- 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 6 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked until crisp and crumbled
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons milk
How to make it
- In a small bowl, combine warm milk (110°F), yeast, and 1 tablespoon granulated sugar. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- In a large bowl, mix remaining sugar, flour, and salt.
- Add melted butter, eggs, and yeast mixture to the flour mixture. Knead for 6-8 minutes until smooth.
- Let the dough rise for 1 hour until it has doubled in size.
- Cook the bacon until crisp; crumble it into small pieces.
- In a separate bowl, mix brown sugar, maple syrup, and cinnamon for the filling.
- Grease a 9×13-inch dish.
- Roll the dough into a 12×18-inch rectangle.
- Spread softened butter over the dough, then sprinkle the brown sugar mixture and crumbled bacon evenly on top.
- Roll the dough tightly into a log and cut it into 12 slices.
- Arrange the rolls in the greased dish, cover, and let rise for 30-45 minutes until puffy.
- Bake at 350°F for 22-28 minutes until golden brown and the center reaches 190°F. Let cool for 5 minutes.
- Whisk together powdered sugar, maple syrup, and milk for the glaze. Drizzle over the warm rolls.
How to serve it
Serve these warm Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls fresh from the oven, drizzled with the sweet glaze on top. They are perfect on their own or paired with a hot cup of coffee or tea. You might also consider adding fresh fruit or a light yogurt on the side for a balanced breakfast.
How to store it
If you have any leftovers, store the rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also refrigerate them for up to a week. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds before serving to enjoy them warm.
Helpful tips
- Make sure the milk is at the right temperature (110°F) for activating the yeast effectively.
- When kneading the dough, flour your surface well to prevent sticking.
- Letting the rolls rise properly is key to achieving a fluffy texture.
Optional variations
- For a nutty flavor, consider adding chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling along with the bacon.
- You can substitute the maple syrup in the glaze with honey or agave syrup for a different sweet twist.
Frequently asked questions
Can I make the dough in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dough the night before and let it rise in the fridge overnight. In the morning, take it out, let it come to room temperature, then proceed with the recipe.
Can I freeze these cinnamon rolls?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked rolls after cutting them. Place them in the freezer, and once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, let them thaw and rise before baking.
What can I use instead of bacon?
If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can omit the bacon altogether or substitute it with maple-flavored nuts or granola for crunch.
