Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls

Indulge in the decadent flavors of Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls, a sumptuous treat that combines soft, pillowy dough with rich, sweet, and smoky accents. With every bite, you’ll experience the sweet warmth of cinnamon intertwined with the savory notes of caramelized bacon, all topped off with a smooth bourbon maple cream cheese frosting. The aroma that fills your kitchen as these rolls bake is nothing short of heavenly. Perfect for brunch gatherings, family celebrations, or just a cozy weekend at home, these cinnamon rolls elevate any occasion into a special event.

Not only are they delicious, but the contrast of textures from the soft dough and crunchy bacon offers a delightful experience that is hard to resist. Whether enjoyed warm from the oven or at room temperature, these rolls are sure to impress friends and family alike.

Ingredients

450 g smoked bacon: Adds a delicious meaty, smoky flavor that complements the sweetness.
110 g light brown sugar: Provides a rich sweetness and a hint of molasses.
60 ml pure maple syrup: Incorporates a natural sweetness with a deliciously distinct flavor.
30 ml bourbon whiskey: Adds depth and warmth to the dish.
1 tsp freshly cracked black pepper: Offers a subtle heat that balances the sweetness.
30 g all-purpose flour: Used to create a tangzhong for extra moisture in the dough.
180 ml water: Helps form the tangzhong for a perfectly textured dough.
440 g all-purpose flour: The main component for the dough, giving structure and elasticity.
67 g granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough itself.
2 tsp instant yeast: Leavens the dough for a fluffy texture.
0.75 tsp fine sea salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the rolls.
120 ml whole milk, room temperature: Adds a richness to the dough and helps yeast rise.
1 large egg, room temperature: Binds the dough and adds moisture.
4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened: Enriches the dough, giving it a tender finish.
113 g unsalted butter, room temperature: Used in the filling, adding creaminess and flavor.
135 g light brown sugar: Sweetens the filling with a hint of caramel flavor.
2 tsp ground cinnamon: Provides a warm, comforting spice that defines cinnamon rolls.
1 cup crumbled candied bacon, reserved: Adds an extra layer of sweetness and texture.
56 g unsalted butter, room temperature: For the frosting, providing a creamy base.
57 g cream cheese, room temperature: Adds tanginess and richness to the frosting.
95 g powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting and gives it a smooth texture.
2.5–5 ml bourbon whiskey: For flavoring the frosting; adjust to taste.
30 ml pure maple syrup: Incorporates a sweet, natural flavor into the frosting.
0.5 cup candied bacon strips, reserved: For garnish, providing a beautiful finish and additional flavor.

Directions

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, combine the brown sugar, maple syrup, bourbon, and black pepper. Evenly spread this mixture over the bacon. Bake on the center rack for 30–40 minutes until the bacon is richly caramelized and crisp. Remove from the oven and transfer the strips to a wire rack to cool fully. Reserve 0.5 cup of strips for finishing and chop the remaining bacon into fine crumbs.
In a small saucepan, whisk together the water and flour. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly for 4–5 minutes until a thick slurry forms, known as a tangzhong. Transfer the tangzhong to a bowl and allow it to cool.
In a stand mixer bowl, combine the remaining flour, granulated sugar, 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, allowing each to integrate before adding the next. Continue kneading the dough for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic, sticking only to the bottom of the bowl. Adjust with flour or milk if necessary for optimal texture.
Form the dough into a smooth ball and place it seam-side down in a large, lightly buttered bowl. Cover and let rise in a warm area for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and roll it out into a rectangle measuring approximately 38 x 46 cm (15 x 18 inches), with the long side closest to you.
In a mixing bowl, thoroughly combine 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 (1 inch) border along the top edge.
Sprinkle the crumbled candied bacon evenly over the cinnamon sugar filling.
Slice the dough into twelve 4 cm (1.5 inches) wide strips using a pizza cutter. Roll each strip away from you and arrange them in a parchment-lined 23 x 33 cm (9 x 13 inches) 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 (325°F).
Bake the rolls on the center rack for 24–30 minutes or until they are golden brown on top. Let cool in the pan set over a wire rack.
In a medium bowl, blend the butter and cream cheese until creamy. Incorporate the powdered sugar, then whisk in the maple syrup and bourbon, adjusting the bourbon to taste for the desired flavor intensity.
Spread the frosting over the lukewarm rolls. Garnish with the reserved candied bacon strips and serve immediately.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 2 hours
Cook Time: 30–40 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
Servings: 12 rolls
Calories: Approximately 400 calories per roll

Tips, Storage & Variations

Helpful Tips: For a richer flavor, you can let the dough rise in the fridge overnight. This gives a more developed taste.
Storage: Store the cinnamon rolls at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. They can be reheated in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.
Freezing: Before baking, you can freeze the rolled-up cinnamon rolls. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, allow them to rise while frozen overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
Flavor Variations: Consider adding nuts such as pecans or walnuts to the filling for added crunch. You can also substitute the candied bacon with caramelized apples for a fruity twist.

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FAQ

1. Can I make these cinnamon rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and filling ahead of time, refrigerate it overnight, and bake fresh rolls in the morning.

2. What type of bourbon is best for this recipe?
Use a smooth, good-quality bourbon that you enjoy drinking; it will enhance the flavor of the rolls.

3. Can I skip the bourbon in the frosting?
Yes, you can omit the bourbon in the frosting if you prefer a non-alcoholic version.

4. How do I ensure my rolls are fluffy?
Make sure to let the dough rise in a warm area, and do not rush the proofing stages.

5. Can I use a different kind of milk?
Yes, you can use any milk alternative such as almond or oat milk in this recipe.

6. What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky, gradually add more flour until it reaches the desired consistency.

Conclusion

Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful treat that is sure to please. The combination of flavors and textures creates a memorable dish that everyone will love. Try this recipe for your next brunch or family gathering, and don’t forget to share your experience. For more delightful inspirations, check out this Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls and learn how to make delicious Bourbon-Maple Bacon Sticky Buns.

Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls