Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls

This hearty maple bacon cinnamon roll recipe transforms an ordinary breakfast into an extraordinary weekend treat that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors. The combination of warm cinnamon, crispy bacon, and sweet maple syrup creates a mouthwatering experience that will have your family requesting them again and again.

I first made these for a family brunch when my in laws were visiting and they've become our mandatory weekend treat. The combination of smoky bacon and sweet maple reminds me of childhood breakfasts at my grandmother's farmhouse table.

Ingredients

• Pillsbury Cinnamon Rolls: provides convenience while still delivering that fresh baked taste
• Bacon: choose thick cut for best results and texture balance
• Brown sugar: creates that perfect caramelization on the bacon pieces
• Pure maple syrup: real maple syrup makes a significant difference in flavor depth
• Additional maple syrup for glaze: creates that signature maple finish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Bacon:

Cook bacon slices on a foil lined baking sheet at 375°F for 15 minutes. You want them partially cooked but still flexible enough to work with. This initial baking renders some fat while maintaining the perfect texture.

Create Maple Bacon:

Combine brown sugar with maple syrup until fully incorporated. Remove bacon from oven and brush this sweet mixture evenly across each slice. Return to oven for another 15 minutes until the bacon becomes crispy and caramelized with a beautiful glossy finish.

Fill the Rolls:

Allow bacon to cool completely before chopping into small pieces. Reduce oven temperature to 350°F. Carefully unroll each cinnamon roll and distribute chopped bacon pieces evenly inside before re rolling them. Set aside half the bacon pieces for the topping.

Bake to Perfection:

Arrange the bacon filled cinnamon rolls in a greased round cake pan with slight space between each roll. Bake according to package directions approximately 15 20 minutes until they turn golden brown and fully cooked in the center.

Create Maple Glaze:

While rolls are baking mix the included frosting with additional maple syrup until completely smooth. The maple enhances the standard frosting and ties all flavors together beautifully.

Finish and Serve:

While still warm generously spread the maple glaze over the freshly baked cinnamon rolls. Immediately sprinkle with reserved bacon pieces allowing them to slightly sink into the warm glaze.

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The maple glaze is truly what makes these rolls exceptional. I discovered this recipe after experimenting with leftover candied bacon from a dinner party. My husband claimed they were better than any bakery version and now requests them for his birthday breakfast every year.

Make Ahead Options

These cinnamon rolls can be prepared up to the baking stage and refrigerated overnight. Simply prepare the bacon and assemble the rolls the evening before then cover tightly with plastic wrap. The next morning allow them to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking as directed. This makes them perfect for holiday mornings when you want to minimize kitchen time.

Serving Suggestions

These maple bacon cinnamon rolls pair beautifully with fresh berries which provide a tart contrast to the sweet rolls. For an extra special breakfast serve alongside scrambled eggs and fresh orange juice for a complete meal. If serving for brunch consider adding a simple spinach salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the rolls.

Ingredient Substitutions

For those avoiding pork bacon turkey bacon works wonderfully though it requires less cooking time. Vegetarians can enjoy this recipe using plant based bacon alternatives or simply omit the bacon and add chopped toasted pecans for a similar textural experience. If pure maple syrup is unavailable maple flavored pancake syrup can substitute though the flavor will be slightly less complex.

Storage Information

These rolls are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage refrigerate for up to five days. To reheat microwave individual rolls for 15 20 seconds or warm in a 300°F oven for about 5 minutes until heated through. The texture is best when reheated rather than eaten cold from the refrigerator.

Common Queries

→ How do you keep bacon crisp inside the rolls?

Partially bake the bacon until almost crispy before adding it to the rolls. This prevents sogginess and keeps the bacon texture appealing.

→ What type of maple syrup is best?

Pure maple syrup is recommended for its natural sweetness and rich flavor, making the glaze and bacon taste more authentic.

→ Can I prepare these in advance?

You can prep the bacon and rolls ahead of time. Cover and refrigerate until ready to bake, then add glaze and bacon topping when serving.

→ Are canned cinnamon rolls necessary?

Using canned dough is convenient, but homemade cinnamon roll dough also works if you prefer a from-scratch experience.

→ Can I add nuts or extras?

Chopped pecans or walnuts can be sprinkled with the bacon for added crunch and nutty flavor, based on your preference.