Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls

This maple bacon cinnamon roll recipe transforms ordinary store-bought rolls into a gourmet breakfast experience that perfectly balances sweet and savory. The combination of candied bacon and maple glaze creates an irresistible treat that will make any weekend morning feel special without hours in the kitchen.

I first made these on a chilly fall morning when my family was craving something special but I didn't have time for scratch baking. The combination was so incredible that my husband now requests these instead of traditional homemade cinnamon rolls for special occasions.

Ingredients

• Pillsbury cinnamon rolls with frosting packet essential base that saves time while still delivering that fresh baked taste
• Thick cut bacon provides the perfect chewy yet crispy texture that holds up well during baking
• Brown sugar caramelizes beautifully on the bacon creating that candy like coating
• Maple syrup adds authentic maple flavor and helps create that gorgeous sticky glaze
• Frosting packet combines with additional maple syrup for the perfect finishing touch

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the bacon

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and lining a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup. Arrange bacon strips in a single layer and bake for 15 minutes until they begin to render fat but are not yet fully crispy. This initial cooking ensures the bacon will have the perfect texture after candying.

Create candied bacon

Mix brown sugar and maple syrup in a small bowl until combined. Remove the partially cooked bacon and brush generously on both sides with this sweet mixture. The sugar will melt into the bacon as it continues cooking creating an irresistible caramelized coating. Return to oven for another 15 minutes watching carefully in the final minutes to prevent burning.

Cool and prepare

Allow the candied bacon to cool completely on the baking sheet. It will continue to crisp up as it cools so do not worry if it seems soft when first removed from the oven. While cooling adjust your oven temperature down to 350°F and prepare a round cake pan with a light coating of cooking spray.

Assemble the rolls

Chop the cooled candied bacon into small bite sized pieces. Carefully unroll each cinnamon roll and place bacon pieces along the inside surface leaving some space between them. Gently reroll each cinnamon roll encasing the bacon inside. Arrange in the prepared pan keeping some space between each roll for expansion.

Bake to perfection

Place the assembled rolls in the preheated oven and bake according to package directions usually 13 to 17 minutes. Look for a golden brown color and make sure the centers are fully cooked. The bacon inside will become warm and integrate with the cinnamon filling creating an amazing flavor combination.

Create maple glaze

While rolls are baking mix the included frosting packet with an additional tablespoon of maple syrup. This simple addition transforms the standard frosting into a maple forward glaze that complements both the cinnamon and bacon flavors perfectly.

Finish and serve

As soon as the rolls come out of the oven drizzle generously with the maple glaze allowing it to melt slightly into the warm rolls. Sprinkle the remaining candied bacon pieces across the top for visual appeal and extra flavor in every bite. Serve immediately while warm for the best eating experience.

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The maple syrup is truly the secret ingredient here. I discovered after several attempts that using pure maple syrup rather than pancake syrup makes an enormous difference in the final flavor. The first time I served these at a family brunch my brother in law who normally picks at sweets devoured three in one sitting.

Make Ahead Options

You can prepare the candied bacon up to two days in advance and store it in an airtight container at room temperature. This makes the morning assembly incredibly quick and ensures you can enjoy these rolls even on busy mornings. Just chop the bacon right before assembling the rolls to maintain the best texture and prevent it from becoming soggy.

Serving Suggestions

These maple bacon cinnamon rolls pair beautifully with fresh fruit to balance the richness. I particularly love serving them alongside berries or sliced citrus fruits. For a complete brunch spread add scrambled eggs and a pitcher of cold brew coffee. If serving for a special occasion add a side of whipped cream cheese with a touch of maple syrup mixed in for an extra decadent option.

Variations To Try

For a spicy twist add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the brown sugar mixture before coating the bacon. The subtle heat works wonderfully with the sweet maple flavor. You can also try adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts along with the bacon inside the rolls for added texture and flavor. For chocolate lovers a few mini chocolate chips inside each roll creates an even more indulgent treat.

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Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make these cinnamon rolls ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the candied bacon the night before and store it covered at room temperature. For best results, assemble and bake the rolls fresh in the morning, but you can also fully prepare them and reheat in a 300°F oven for 5-7 minutes before serving.

→ What's the best type of bacon to use?

Thick-cut bacon works best for this recipe as it maintains its structure when chopped and baked inside the rolls. The thickness also allows it to caramelize beautifully without burning when coated with the brown sugar and maple syrup.

→ Can I use homemade cinnamon roll dough instead of store-bought?

Absolutely! While this recipe uses store-bought cinnamon rolls for convenience, you can substitute your favorite homemade cinnamon roll dough. Just prepare the dough as usual, add the candied bacon pieces before rolling, and adjust baking time according to your dough recipe.

→ How do I store leftover maple bacon cinnamon rolls?

Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat individual rolls in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or until warm for the best texture and flavor.

→ Can I freeze these cinnamon rolls?

Yes, these rolls freeze well! Allow them to cool completely, then wrap individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes or microwave individual rolls for 30 seconds.

→ What can I serve with maple bacon cinnamon rolls?

These indulgent rolls pair beautifully with fresh fruit to balance the sweetness, a hot cup of coffee or tea, or even a savory egg dish for a complete brunch spread. For extra decadence, serve with a small pitcher of warm maple syrup on the side.