Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls – Decadent Sweet & Savory Breakfast

Introduction

If you’re looking for a breakfast treat that combines indulgence with a hint of sophistication, Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls are your answer. Fluffy, buttery cinnamon rolls drizzled with rich maple bourbon glaze and topped with crispy, smoky bacon create the ultimate sweet-and-savory experience.

Perfect for weekend brunch, holiday mornings, or special gatherings, this recipe elevates the classic cinnamon roll into a gourmet delight that is sure to impress friends, family, and guests alike. In this post, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know—from ingredients to pro tips and serving ideas—so you can bake like a professional pastry chef at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Sweet & Savory Harmony: The smoky bacon contrasts perfectly with the buttery, sweet rolls and maple bourbon glaze.
• Decadent & Indulgent: A luxurious breakfast that feels like a treat.
• Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for brunch gatherings, holidays, or weekend mornings.
• Customizable: Adjust the sweetness, bourbon, or bacon quantity to your liking.
• Homemade Gourmet: Achieve bakery-quality results in your own kitchen.

Ingredients & Equipment

Ingredients

For the Cinnamon Rolls:

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
• ½ cup warm milk (110°F/45°C)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 large eggs

For the Filling:

• ½ cup brown sugar
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

For the Maple Bourbon Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2–3 tbsp maple syrup
• 1–2 tbsp bourbon (adjust to taste)
• 1–2 tsp milk (if needed for consistency)

For Topping:

• 6–8 slices of cooked bacon, chopped

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Stand mixer with dough hook (optional)
• Rolling pin
• Baking dish (9×13 inches)
• Small saucepan for glaze
• Pastry brush or spoon

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a small bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2. In a large bowl, mix flour and salt. Add yeast mixture, melted butter, and eggs.
3. Knead until a soft, elastic dough forms (about 8–10 minutes by hand or 5 minutes in a mixer).
4. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise 1–1.5 hours until doubled in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. Mix brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl.
2. Set aside softened butter for spreading.

Step 3: Assemble the Rolls

1. Roll out dough into a 16×12-inch rectangle.
2. Spread softened butter evenly over the dough.
3. Sprinkle cinnamon-sugar mixture on top.
4. Starting from the long edge, roll tightly into a log.
5. Slice into 12–14 even rolls and place in a greased baking dish.

Step 4: Second Rise

1. Cover rolls loosely and let them rise 30–45 minutes until puffy.

Step 5: Bake the Rolls

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake rolls for 25–30 minutes until golden brown.
3. Remove and let cool slightly.

Step 6: Prepare Maple Bourbon Glaze

1. In a small saucepan, combine powdered sugar, maple syrup, and bourbon.
2. Heat gently until smooth; adjust consistency with milk if needed.

Step 7: Add Bacon & Glaze

1. Sprinkle chopped cooked bacon over warm rolls.
2. Drizzle maple bourbon glaze generously over the top.

Pro Tips for Perfect Rolls

• Yeast Activation: Make sure milk is warm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.
• Even Slices: Use a sharp knife or dental floss to slice rolls evenly.
• Bacon Choice: Thick-cut bacon adds texture and flavor without overpowering the sweetness.
• Glaze Balance: Adjust bourbon and maple syrup for sweetness vs. boozy flavor.
• Serving Warm: Serve immediately for the softest, most indulgent experience.

Variations to Try

1. Extra Boozy: Add more bourbon to glaze for a stronger flavor (cook off some alcohol if preferred).rice-skillet-bbq-sausage
2. Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top before glazing.
3. Caramel Drizzle: Combine maple bourbon glaze with caramel for added decadence.
4. Mini Rolls: Make bite-sized rolls for brunch platters or parties.
5. Chocolate Twist: Add a layer of chocolate chips inside the filling.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with coffee, hot chocolate, or a spiced latte for a luxurious breakfast.
• Pair with fresh fruit like berries or citrus slices for balance.
• Ideal for brunch gatherings, holiday mornings, or special occasions.

Storage & Reheating Tips

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Wrap individually and freeze for up to 2 months; thaw and warm before serving.
• Reheating: Microwave for 15–20 seconds or warm in a 300°F oven for 5–10 minutes.

Pro Tip: Glaze and bacon are best added after reheating to maintain crispness and shine.

Nutrition Overview (Approximate per roll)

• Calories: 450–500
• Protein: 6–8g
• Carbs: 55–60g
• Fat: 22–25g
• Fiber: 1–2g
• Sodium: Varies with bacon and salt

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the rolls, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake in the morning.

Q: Can I omit bourbon?
Absolutely! Substitute with additional maple syrup or a teaspoon of vanilla extract.

Q: Can I use pre-made cinnamon roll dough?
Yes, then just add bourbon maple glaze and bacon topping.

Q: Can I make it gluten-free?
Use a high-quality gluten-free flour blend; texture may vary slightly.

Final Thoughts

Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect combination of indulgent, sweet, and savory. The rich maple bourbon glaze, crispy bacon, and fluffy cinnamon rolls create a breakfast or brunch experience that feels both luxurious and comforting.

Whether for a weekend treat, holiday brunch, or special occasion, these rolls are sure to impress anyone at your table. With pro tips, variations, and step-by-step guidance, you can recreate bakery-quality results right in your own kitchen.

So preheat the oven, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy a decadent breakfast experience that’s truly unforgettable.pinterest