These sensational maple bacon cinnamon rolls are a delightful fusion of sweet and savory. Made with a rich, fluffy dough, filled with a sweet, cinnamon and bacon-infused filling, these rolls are then topped with a luscious maple cream cheese frosting. Whether for a special brunch or a cozy weekend breakfast, these rolls are sure to make your mornings extra special.
The ingredient list for this recipe is fairly straightforward, most might already be in your kitchen. However, real maple syrup might be less common in some homes. When shopping, ensure to buy 100% pure maple syrup, and not just 'pancake syrup', which is often just flavored corn syrup. Also, try to find good quality bacon for the best results. You'll also need active dry yeast, which is usually available in the baking section of most supermarkets.
Ingredients for Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls
Active dry yeast: A leavening agent needed for the dough to rise. It's activated by warm milk in this recipe.
Milk: Adds richness to the dough, and also activates the yeast.
Sugar: Sweetens the dough and also helps to brown it.
Butter: Adds flavor and assists in browning.
Eggs: Provide structure and leavening to the dough.
Flour: The main structure for the dough.
Brown sugar: Used in the filling for sweetness and moisture.
Ground cinnamon: For that classic cinnamon roll flavor.
Bacon pieces: Adds a savory counterpoint to the sweetness in these rolls.
Cream cheese: Makes the frosting creamy and tangy.
Maple syrup: Sweetens the frosting and adds a distinct, rich flavor.
Powdered sugar: Adds sweetness and body to the frosting.
One reader, Coriss Mcpherson says:
These maple bacon cinnamon rolls are a game-changer! The combination of sweet maple, savory bacon, and warm cinnamon is pure bliss. The frosting is the perfect finishing touch. It's a delightful treat that's perfect for breakfast or dessert. I highly recommend trying this recipe!
Techniques Required for Perfect Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls
How to prepare the dough: Combine the yeast, warm milk, sugar, butter, eggs, salt, and flour, and knead until smooth and elastic. Let the dough rise until doubled in size.
How to make the filling: Mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and bacon in a small bowl, and set aside.
How to roll the dough: Divide the dough in half, roll each portion into a rectangle, brush with melted butter, sprinkle with the brown sugar mixture, and roll up jelly-roll style.
How to bake the cinnamon rolls: Bake at 350°F until golden brown, about 20-25 minutes.
How to make the frosting: Beat butter, cream cheese, maple syrup, and powdered sugar until well blended. Spread over warm rolls and top with chopped bacon pieces.
How To Make Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls
Fans of sweet and salty foods will love these cinnamon rolls. They’re filled with bacon and cinnamon and frosted in cream cheese and maple syrup.
Serves:
Ingredients
For Dough:
- ¼ozactive dry yeast
- 1cupwarm milk
- ½cupsugar
- ⅓cupbutter,melted
- 2large eggs
- 1tspsalt
- 4cupsall purpose flour
For Filling:
- ¾cupbrown sugar,packed
- 2tbspground cinnamon
- ¼cupbutter,melted, divided
- bacon pieces,chopped
For Frosting:
- ¼cupbutter,softened
- 4ozcream cheese,softened
- 10tbspreal maple syrup
- 3cupspowdered sugar
- additional bacon pieces for top
Instructions
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In a small bowl with warm milk, dissolve your yeast. In a large bowl, combine sugar, butter, eggs, salt, yeast mixture and 2 cups flour; beat on medium speed until smooth. Stir in enough remaining flour to form a soft dough (dough will still be a little sticky).
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Knead dough onto a floured surface about 6 to 8 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Turn in a greased bowl, to ensure it is all covered.
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Top bowl with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour until doubled.
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Mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and bacon in a small bowl, set aside. Punch down and divide dough in half on a lightly floured surface.
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Roll each portion into an 11×8-inch rectangle. Brush with one tablespoon melted butter and sprinkle with half of the brown sugar mixture.
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Starting with a long side, roll up jelly-roll style and pinch seam to seal. Cut into 8 slices. Repeat steps with remaining dough, butter and sugar mixture.
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Cut side down, place eight slices in each pan. Cover with kitchen towels let rise in a warm place about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
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Bake at 350 degrees F for about 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown. Cool on wire racks.
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For frosting, beat all ingredients until well blended. Spread over warm rolls and top with more chopped bacon pieces.
Nutrition
- Calories: 656.75kcal
- Fat: 36.49g
- Saturated Fat: 15.69g
- Trans Fat: 0.47g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 13.61g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.49g
- Carbohydrates: 70.37g
- Fiber: 1.48g
- Sugar: 44.11g
- Protein: 12.57g
- Cholesterol: 96.27mg
- Sodium: 431.43mg
- Calcium: 66.68mg
- Potassium: 234.20mg
- Iron: 2.00mg
- Vitamin A: 130.35µg
- Vitamin C: 0.04mg
Crucial Technique Tip for Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls
When preparing the bacon for the filling, consider cooking it until it's crispy. This will add a delightful crunch to your cinnamon rolls, contrasting nicely with the soft dough. Additionally, the bacon's smoky flavor will be more pronounced, providing a savory balance to the sweet maple frosting. Remember to let the bacon cool and drain on a paper towel before adding it to the filling to prevent excess grease from making the rolls soggy.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Cinnamon Rolls
Plan ahead: Prepare the dough the night before and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. This will save time on the day of baking.
Use pre-cooked bacon: Save time by using pre-cooked bacon pieces for the filling instead of cooking bacon from scratch.
Organize ingredients: Before starting, make sure all ingredients and tools are organized and easily accessible to streamline the cooking process.
Set up a workstation: Set up a designated workspace with all the necessary tools and ingredients to work efficiently.
Multi-task: While the dough is rising, prepare the filling and frosting to maximize your time in the kitchen.
Pre-cut bacon: Consider using pre-cut bacon pieces to save time on preparation.
Use a stand mixer: Utilize a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment to knead the dough, saving time and effort compared to kneading by hand.
Pre-measure ingredients: Pre-measure all ingredients before starting to streamline the cooking process and avoid last-minute measurements.
Substitute Ingredients For Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
active dry yeast - Substitute with instant yeast: Instant yeast can be used as a direct substitute for active dry yeast, but it does not require proofing in warm liquid before using.
warm milk - Substitute with soy milk: Soy milk can be used as a dairy-free alternative to regular milk in the dough.
sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be used as a natural alternative to refined sugar, adding a slightly caramel-like flavor to the dough.
butter - Substitute with vegan butter: Vegan butter can be used as a dairy-free alternative to regular butter in the dough.
large eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Flax eggs can be used as a vegan alternative to regular eggs in the dough.
all purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour can be used to add a nutty flavor and extra nutrients to the dough.
brown sugar - Substitute with coconut palm sugar: Coconut palm sugar can be used as a natural alternative to brown sugar, adding a hint of caramel flavor to the filling.
ground cinnamon - Substitute with nutmeg: Nutmeg can be used as a warm and aromatic alternative to cinnamon in the filling.
butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used as a dairy-free alternative to butter in the filling.
bacon pieces - Substitute with tempeh bacon: Tempeh bacon can be used as a vegan alternative to traditional bacon, providing a smoky and savory flavor to the cinnamon rolls.
butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine can be used as a dairy-free alternative to butter in the frosting.
cream cheese - Substitute with vegan cream cheese: Vegan cream cheese can be used as a dairy-free alternative to regular cream cheese in the frosting.
real maple syrup - Substitute with agave nectar: Agave nectar can be used as a vegan alternative to maple syrup in the frosting.
powdered sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be used as a natural alternative to powdered sugar in the frosting.
Presentation Ideas for Irresistible Cinnamon Rolls
Elevate the plating: When presenting the maple bacon cinnamon rolls, consider using a beautiful, high-quality serving platter or plate to showcase the rolls in an elegant and appetizing manner.
Garnish with finesse: Add a touch of sophistication by garnishing the cinnamon rolls with delicately placed candied bacon on top, enhancing the visual appeal and adding a layer of complexity to the dish.
Incorporate contrasting textures: Pair the soft, pillowy cinnamon rolls with a crunchy caramelized bacon crumble to create a delightful textural contrast that will impress the judges' palates.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to allow the cinnamon rolls to stand out, creating a visually striking presentation that draws attention to the star of the dish.
Artful drizzling: Skillfully drizzle the luscious maple cream cheese frosting over the cinnamon rolls, using a precise hand to create an artful and enticing design that adds a touch of finesse to the plating.
Balance with fresh elements: Introduce a pop of color and freshness by incorporating a small side of fresh berries or fruit compote to complement the rich flavors of the cinnamon rolls and provide a refreshing contrast.
Attention to detail: Pay close attention to the final presentation, ensuring that each element, from the placement of the rolls to the final sprinkle of powdered sugar, is meticulously executed to perfection.
Essential Tools for Making Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls
- Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used for various tasks such as chopping, slicing, shredding, and pureeing ingredients. It's great for making dough for the cinnamon rolls and processing bacon pieces for the filling.
- Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining the dough ingredients and allowing the dough to rise. It's also used for mixing the filling ingredients and preparing the frosting.
- Rolling pin: A rolling pin is used to roll out the dough into a rectangle for making the cinnamon rolls.
- Baking pan: Baking pans are necessary for baking the cinnamon rolls. They provide a surface for the rolls to rise and cook evenly.
- Pastry brush: A pastry brush is used to brush melted butter onto the rolled-out dough before adding the filling.
- Oven: An oven is required for baking the maple bacon cinnamon rolls to golden perfection.
- Electric mixer: An electric mixer is used for beating the frosting ingredients until smooth and creamy.
- Knife: A knife is used for slicing the rolled dough into individual cinnamon rolls before baking.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial in baking, and measuring cups and spoons are used to measure ingredients precisely.
- Wire rack: A wire rack is used for cooling the baked cinnamon rolls before frosting and serving.
Storing and Freezing Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls
Here are the storing and freezing guidelines for maple bacon cinnamon rolls:
- Let the cinnamon rolls cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent them from becoming soggy or sticky.
- To store: place the cooled rolls in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. They will keep at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- To freeze: wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. They will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months.
- To reheat: if frozen, let the rolls thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Place them on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. If storing at room temperature or in the refrigerator, you can reheat them in the microwave for 15-20 seconds.
- For best results, freeze the rolls without the cream cheese frosting. When ready to serve, let them thaw and reheat, then prepare the frosting and spread it on top of the warm rolls. This will ensure the frosting stays smooth and creamy.
How To Reheat Leftover Cinnamon Rolls
The best way to reheat leftover maple bacon cinnamon rolls is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover the rolls loosely with aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out or browning too much. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until they are heated through and the frosting is melted.
Another option is to use the microwave. Place a single roll on a microwave-safe plate and heat it for 15-20 seconds. If the roll is not heated through, continue microwaving in 10-second intervals until it reaches your desired temperature. Be careful not to overheat the roll, as it can become tough and rubbery.
For a crispy exterior and a soft, gooey interior, try reheating your cinnamon rolls in an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the rolls in the basket, leaving some space between each one. Heat for 3-5 minutes, or until they are warmed through and the frosting is melted.
If you want to reheat a larger batch of cinnamon rolls, you can use a slow cooker. Place the rolls in the slow cooker and cover with the lid. Set the cooker to low heat and let the rolls warm for 30-45 minutes, or until they are heated through. This method is perfect for keeping the rolls warm and moist for an extended period, making it ideal for brunch or potluck gatherings.
For a quick and easy reheating method, use a toaster oven. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the rolls on the wire rack. Heat for 5-7 minutes, or until they are warmed through and the frosting is melted. Keep an eye on the rolls to ensure they don't burn or become too crispy.
Interesting Fact About Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls
The maple bacon cinnamon rolls recipe is a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors, making it a unique and indulgent treat. The addition of bacon to the traditional cinnamon rolls adds a delicious smoky and salty element, creating a perfect balance with the sweet maple frosting. This recipe showcases the versatility of bacon, demonstrating how it can be incorporated into both sweet and savory dishes to enhance the overall flavor profile. Bacon lovers will appreciate the unexpected twist in this classic dessert, making it a delightful surprise for anyone with a sweet tooth and a love for bacon.
Is Making Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls at Home Cost-Effective?
The cost-effectiveness of this maple bacon cinnamon rolls recipe depends on the availability and prices of ingredients. Bacon and real maple syrup can be relatively expensive, impacting the overall cost. However, the recipe yields a generous amount of delicious rolls, making it suitable for a family. Considering the quality and quantity, the approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $20-$25. The indulgent flavors and the satisfaction it brings make it worth the cost. Rating: 9/10.
Are Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls Healthy or Unhealthy?
The maple bacon cinnamon rolls recipe is undeniably delicious but unfortunately falls into the unhealthy category. Here's why:
- The dough is made with a significant amount of sugar, butter, and all-purpose flour, which are high in calories and low in nutrients.
- The filling contains even more sugar in the form of brown sugar, along with butter and bacon pieces, adding to the overall calorie and fat content.
- The frosting is loaded with butter, cream cheese, and powdered sugar, further increasing the calorie and sugar content of the dish.
- Bacon, while delicious, is high in saturated fat and sodium, which can contribute to heart disease and high blood pressure when consumed in excess.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Substitute some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour to increase the fiber content and nutritional value of the dough.
- Reduce the amount of sugar in the dough and filling, or use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup in moderation.
- Use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon to reduce the saturated fat content.
- Experiment with a lighter frosting option, such as a Greek yogurt-based glaze, to cut down on the butter and cream cheese.
- Incorporate some finely chopped nuts or seeds into the filling for added protein, healthy fats, and texture.
- Serve the cinnamon rolls with fresh fruit on the side to balance out the sweetness and add some vitamins and antioxidants to the meal.
Editor's Opinion on This Maple Bacon Cinnamon Roll Recipe
The maple bacon cinnamon rolls recipe is a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors. The use of real maple syrup in the frosting adds a rich and natural sweetness, while the addition of bacon in the filling provides a unique and indulgent twist. The dough is perfectly soft and fluffy, and the aroma of cinnamon fills the air as the rolls bake to golden perfection. The balance of flavors and textures in this recipe is truly exceptional, making it a standout choice for a special breakfast or brunch treat.
Enhance Your Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Delicious Alternatives to Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls
Ideal Appetizers and Main Dishes to Serve with This Recipe
Why trust this Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls Recipe:
This recipe is a must-try for all cinnamon roll lovers. The combination of maple syrup and bacon adds a unique and irresistible flavor to the classic treat. The dough is made with care, ensuring a soft and fluffy texture. The use of real maple syrup in the frosting guarantees an authentic and rich taste. The addition of bacon in the filling and as a topping brings a savory element that perfectly complements the sweetness. Trust in the delightful blend of flavors and the expertise behind this recipe for a truly memorable cinnamon roll experience.
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