Introduction to Bourbon Maple Turkey Bacon Cinnamon Rolls
Are you ready to level up your breakfast game? Picture this: soft, fluffy cinnamon rolls, rich with pockets of sweet and savory flavor, drizzled with a creamy bourbon maple glaze, and topped with crispy turkey bacon. These Bourbon Maple Turkey Bacon Cinnamon Rolls are not just another pastry; they’re a celebration of everything we love about breakfast.
Imagine biting into a warm roll, the scent of cinnamon filling the air, contrasted with the enticing aroma of maple syrup and turkey bacon. Sounds tempting, right? The combination of sweet and salty perfectly balances indulgence and comfort. Whether you're having them for a lazy Sunday brunch or as a decadent treat to impress your friends, these rolls are sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
One of the best parts? Making these rolls allows for creativity. Feel free to tweak the ingredients to suit your taste. Want to substitute the turkey bacon for something else? Go for it! You could even explore some fun pairings with seasonal ingredients. If you're excited to try this unique twist on a classic favorite, grab your apron and let’s get baking!
Ingredients for Bourbon Maple Turkey Bacon Cinnamon Rolls
Creating the perfect Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls requires a variety of tasty components. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful breakfast treat.
What you'll need for the candied turkey bacon
- 1 pound thick-cut turkey bacon
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 4 tablespoons maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons bourbon (or a non-alcoholic alternative like vanilla extract)
- 1 teaspoon cracked black pepper
These ingredients come together to create a sweet and savory layer that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Essential ingredients for the dough
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup water
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour (measure carefully)
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast
- ¾ teaspoon fine sea salt
- ½ cup whole milk (room temperature)
- 1 large egg (room temperature)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
These foundational elements ensure a soft, fluffy roll that perfectly complements the rich filling.
Ingredients for the cinnamon sugar filling
- ½ cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- ⅔ cup light brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1 cup candied turkey bacon strips
This delicious mixture of sweetness and spice rounds out your rolls, ensuring they burst with flavor in every bite.
Making the bourbon maple frosting
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 2 oz cream cheese (room temperature)
- ¾ cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- ½ - 1 teaspoon bourbon (or additional vanilla extract for a non-alcoholic version)
- ½ cup candied turkey bacon strips (for garnish)
This rich frosting brings everything together with an irresistible drizzle that will elevate your Bourbon Maple Turkey Bacon Cinnamon Rolls to a whole new delicious level.
For more tips on cooking with turkey bacon, check out this guide on enhancing flavors!
Step-by-step Preparation of Bourbon Maple Turkey Bacon Cinnamon Rolls
When it comes to brunch, nothing quite compares to the sweet and savory delight of Bourbon Maple Turkey Bacon Cinnamon Rolls. With crispy turkey bacon combined with luscious cinnamon rolls and a drizzle of bourbon maple frosting, this recipe is sure to impress. Let's dive into each step!
Prepare the Candied Turkey Bacon
To kick off this decadent treat, you'll start by making your candied turkey bacon. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lay out your turkey bacon strips and in a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, maple syrup, cracked black pepper, and a splash of bourbon. Evenly coat the bacon with this flavorful mixture and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until it reaches a crispy perfection. Remember to keep an eye on it; thinner pieces may cook faster! Once done, transfer them to a wire rack to cool. Reserve some for topping your rolls later, and chop the rest into fine crumbles for that tasty filling.
Make the Cinnamon Roll Dough
Next up is the dough! In a small saucepan, whisk ¼ cup of flour and ¾ cup of water, cooking over medium heat until it forms a paste-like tangzhong. Set this aside to cool. In a mixing bowl, combine remaining flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Add the tangzhong, egg, and milk, kneading the mixture until it turns into a smooth dough ball. This process should take about 10-12 minutes. Don’t forget to adjust with more flour or milk if your dough feels too sticky or dry. After kneading, place the dough in a buttered bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
Spread the Filling
Once your dough has risen, roll it out into a 15x18 inch rectangle. Prepare your filling by mixing together room temperature butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Spread this luscious mixture across your rolled-out dough, leaving a 1-inch border at the top. Then, sprinkle your chopped turkey bacon crumbles over the filling, combining that sweet and savory flavor that we love!
Assemble and Shape the Rolls
Now for the fun part! Using a pizza cutter, slice the dough into 12 strips, each about 1.5 inches wide. Starting from the bottom, roll each strip tightly toward the top, creating your cinnamon rolls. Place them in a parchment-lined 9x13 metal baking pan, ensuring they have enough space to rise again. Cover the pan with plastic wrap and let them sit until they double in size—this should take about 1 hour.
Final Rise and Baking
Preheat your oven to 325°F (162°C). Once your rolls have risen, bake them for 24-30 minutes or until the tops are golden brown. As they bake, the delicious scents will fill your kitchen! Allow them to cool on a wire rack before adding the frosting.
Whip Up the Bourbon Maple Frosting
While the rolls cool, grab a medium bowl and combine softened butter and cream cheese until smooth. Gradually mix in powdered sugar, then whisk in maple syrup and bourbon to create a delightful frosting. Drizzle this over the warm cinnamon rolls, and top with those reserved bits of candied turkey bacon—because more bacon is always a good idea!
Now you’re all set to enjoy your Bourbon Maple Turkey Bacon Cinnamon Rolls! Perfect for breakfast or a sweet treat, they're bound to become a favorite in your home. Happy baking!
Variations on Bourbon Maple Turkey Bacon Cinnamon Rolls
Add Nuts for Extra Crunch
For those who love a bit of crunch in their Bourbon Maple Turkey Bacon Cinnamon Rolls, consider adding nuts! Chopped pecans or walnuts can beautifully complement the sweetness of the maple and the savory flavor of turkey bacon. Simply sprinkle a handful over the filling right before you roll it up. Nuts will not only enhance the texture but also add a delightful nutty aroma that pairs perfectly with your rolls.
Substitute Turkey Bacon with Chicken Ham
If you're looking for a lighter alternative, replacing turkey bacon with chicken ham is an excellent option. Chicken ham will still give you that savory punch while offering a different flavor profile. Just make sure to cut it into similar-sized pieces as the turkey bacon so that it caramelizes nicely. The sweetness of the bourbon maple glaze will pair beautifully with the rich flavor of chicken ham!
For more inspiration, check out this article on creative bacon substitutes that discusses other alternatives and their flavor profiles. Enjoy experimenting!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Perfect Rolls
Measure Your Flour Properly for the Best Texture
Getting the right flour measurement is crucial for your Bourbon Maple Turkey Bacon Cinnamon Rolls. Always use the spoon-and-level method: fluff the flour, spoon it into your measuring cup, and level it off with a straight edge. This prevents overpacking, which can lead to dense rolls. If you want to take it up a notch, consider using a kitchen scale for precision.
Tips for a Smoother Frosting
To achieve a velvety frosting, make sure both the butter and cream cheese are at room temperature. This helps them blend beautifully with the powdered sugar and maple syrup, creating a creamy texture. If your frosting ends up too thick, simply add a splash of milk to loosen it up. A perfect glaze will elevate your Bourbon Maple Turkey Bacon Cinnamon Rolls to the next level!
For more tips on glazing, check out this article on frosting techniques.
Serving Suggestions for Bourbon Maple Turkey Bacon Cinnamon Rolls
Pairing with Coffee or Tea for a Delightful Brunch
What better way to enjoy Bourbon Maple Turkey Bacon Cinnamon Rolls than with your favorite cup of coffee or tea? The sweet and salty flavors meld beautifully with the rich notes of a bold brew or the calming effects of herbal tea. Consider a smooth medium roast or even a spiced chai for a comforting combo that will elevate your brunch game. Bonus tip: If you're serving guests, offer a variety of beverage options to cater to different tastes—after all, a great gathering is all about choices!
Serving Warm Versus Room Temperature
Whether you serve your cinnamon rolls warm right out of the oven or let them cool to room temperature, they’re sure to impress. Warm rolls bring out gooey frosting and bacon crunch, while room temperature offers a softer, more traditional texture. If you're pre-making for a gathering, just reheat individual rolls in the microwave for a quick indulgence. Remember, the magic of these Bourbon Maple Turkey Bacon Cinnamon Rolls lies in their versatility—serve them however you like and watch everyone come back for seconds!
Time Breakdown for Bourbon Maple Turkey Bacon Cinnamon Rolls
Preparation time
In total, prepping these Bourbon Maple Turkey Bacon Cinnamon Rolls will take about 1 hour and 30 minutes. This includes time for the bacon to get all crispy and sweet as well as the dough to rise properly.
Baking time
Once your rolls are ready to go, the baking will take around 24-30 minutes. You’ll want to keep an eye on them while they turn a beautiful golden brown!
Total time
From start to finish, you're looking at approximately 2 hours to create and enjoy these delightful treats. Trust me, every minute spent will be worth it when you take that first bite!
For more detailed tips on timing and preparation for your rolls, check out these resources on baking techniques and cinnamon roll variations. Happy baking!
Nutritional Facts for Bourbon Maple Turkey Bacon Cinnamon Rolls
Calories per roll
Each of these delightful Bourbon Maple Turkey Bacon Cinnamon Rolls packs in about 250 calories, making them a guilt-free indulgence for breakfast or dessert!
Protein content
With the inclusion of turkey bacon, you can expect approximately 8 grams of protein per roll. It's a delicious way to start your day with a protein boost!
Sodium levels
Keep in mind, these rolls do contain sodium, primarily from the turkey bacon and other ingredients. Each roll has around 400 milligrams of sodium. For a balanced diet, pair them with fresh fruit or a light salad!
For more information on nutritional values, check out resources like NutritionData for comprehensive details on specific ingredients.
FAQs about Bourbon Maple Turkey Bacon Cinnamon Rolls
Can these rolls be made in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the Bourbon Maple Turkey Bacon Cinnamon Rolls up to the point of baking. After assembling the rolls in the baking pan, cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let them rise at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking. Enjoy the ease of having them ready to pop into the oven!
How do I store leftover rolls?
To keep your scrumptious cinnamon rolls fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. You can reheat them in the oven at a low temperature or in the microwave for a few seconds—just enough to warm them through. They’re perfect for a quick breakfast or snack!
What can I substitute if I don’t have bourbon?
If you prefer to avoid bourbon, you can easily replace it with non-alcoholic options. Consider using additional maple syrup for sweetness or a splash of apple cider vinegar mixed with a bit of water for a tangy twist. These substitutes ensure that your Bourbon Maple Turkey Bacon Cinnamon Rolls remain delicious and satisfying!
Conclusion on Bourbon Maple Turkey Bacon Cinnamon Rolls
Why you need to try these rolls today!
If you're searching for a mouthwatering breakfast treat that combines sweet and savory flavors, look no further than these Bourbon Maple Turkey Bacon Cinnamon Rolls. With layers of fluffy dough, crispy turkey bacon, and a decadent frosting, they are perfect for any gathering or a cozy morning at home. Don’t wait; elevate your brunch game with these delightful rolls today!

Bourbon Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls
Equipment
- square edge metal 9x13 baking pan
Ingredients
Candied Bacon
- 1 pound thick-cut bacon
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 4 tablespoons maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons bourbon
- 1 teaspoon cracked black pepper
Dough
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup water
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour *see notes for measuring below*
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast
- ¾ teaspoon fine sea salt
- ½ cup whole milk room temperature
- 1 large egg room temperature
- 1 batch Tangzhong from above
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter softened
Cinnamon Sugar Filling
- ½ cup unsalted butter room temperature
- ⅔ cup light brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1 cup candied bacon strips
Bourbon Maple Frosting
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter room temperature
- 2 oz cream cheese room temperature
- ¾ cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- ½ - 1 teaspoon bourbon
- ½ cup candied bacon strips for the tops
Instructions
Make the Candied Bacon
- Preheat the oven to 375 F/ 190 C and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lay the uncooked bacon strips on the pan.
- In a small bowl, combine the sugar, maple syrup, bourbon, and black pepper; spread it over the bacon slices. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy. Remove the pan from the oven and use tongs to transfer the bacon to a wire cooling rack to cool completely. If your bacon is thinner, it may bake quicker. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!
- Once cool, cut a few pieces into strips for the tops of the rolls (about ½ cup) then chop the rest of the bacon into crumbs, discarding any blackened ends.
Make the Cinnamon Roll Dough
- In a small saucepan, whisk together the water and all-purpose flour. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, for 4-5 minutes until the mixture is a paste-like slurry. Scrape it into a bowl and set it aside until ready to use.
- In a stand mixing bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt until combined. Add the egg, milk, and tangzhong to the bowl. Knead on low speed with the dough hook for 2 minutes until it forms a rough dough ball.
- With the mixer running on low, add the softened butter ½ tablespoon at a time, letting it fully incorporate into the dough before adding more. Then continue kneading for another 8-10 minutes or until the dough looks smooth and elastic. The dough should be sticking to the bottom of the bowl. If it seems too wet and is sticking to the sides of the bowl, add flour one tablespoon at a time. If the dough seems dry, add half a tablespoon of milk at a time.
- Remove the dough from the bowl and pull the sides down into the bottom center to create a smooth round ball. Place it seam-side down into a large lightly buttered bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Roll the dough out into a 15x18 rectangle, with the longest side closest to you.
- Combine the butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until smooth. Use an offset spatula to spread the cinnamon sugar filling across the dough, leaving a 1-inch border clean at the top.
- Sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the top. Then use a pizza cutter to cut 12, 1 ½ inch strips. Roll each strip away from you, then carefully transfer them to a parchment-lined 9x13 baking pan.
- Cover the pan with plastic wrap and set it aside to rise for another hour or until the rolls double in size. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 325 F/162 C.
- Bake the rolls for 24-30 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown. Let the pan cool on a wire cooling rack while you make the glaze.
- In a medium bowl, combine the butter and cream cheese until smooth. Then mix in the powdered sugar. Once combined, whisk in the maple syrup and bourbon. Add more or less bourbon depending on how strong you want it! Spread over the warm cinnamon rolls, then sprinkle the reserved bacon slices on top. Enjoy!





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