There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked goods wafting through the house. It takes me back to my childhood, where weekends meant cozy mornings filled with sweet treats. Now, as a passionate home cook, I’ve discovered a delightful twist on a classic favorite: Bacon Cinnamon Rolls. These rolls combine the sweet, comforting flavors of cinnamon with the savory crunch of bacon, creating a treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking to impress your loved ones or simply want a quick solution for a busy day, these rolls are sure to delight your taste buds!
Why You’ll Love This Bacon Cinnamon Rolls
These Bacon Cinnamon Rolls are a game-changer for breakfast or brunch. They’re easy to make, even for those who might feel intimidated in the kitchen. The combination of sweet and savory flavors creates a taste explosion that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, they’re perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious treat without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, your mornings will never be the same!
Ingredients for Bacon Cinnamon Rolls
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these mouthwatering Bacon Cinnamon Rolls. Here’s what you’ll need:
All-purpose flour: The backbone of your dough, providing structure and chewiness.
Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to the dough, balancing the savory bacon.
Active dry yeast: This little powerhouse helps the dough rise, creating fluffy rolls.
Salt: Enhances flavor and strengthens the dough’s structure.
Whole milk: Warmed milk adds moisture and richness to the dough.
Unsalted butter: Used in both the dough and filling, it brings a rich flavor.
Large egg: Acts as a binding agent, giving the rolls a tender texture.
Vanilla extract: A hint of sweetness that complements the cinnamon and bacon.
Brown sugar: Adds a deep, caramel-like sweetness to the filling.
Ground cinnamon: The star of the show, providing that warm, comforting flavor.
Cooked bacon: Crumbled for that savory crunch, it’s what makes these rolls unique.
Powdered sugar: Essential for the icing, giving it that sweet, smooth finish.
Milk (for icing): Helps achieve the perfect drizzling consistency for your icing.
For those looking to mix things up, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the bacon for a spicy kick. If bacon isn’t your thing, cooked sausage or a blend of both can create a delicious alternative. You can find the exact quantities for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Bacon Cinnamon Rolls
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by combining the dry ingredients in a large bowl. Mix the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, active dry yeast, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together the warmed whole milk, melted unsalted butter, large egg, and vanilla extract. Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring until a dough begins to form. This dough is the foundation of your Bacon Cinnamon Rolls, so make sure it’s well combined and ready for the next step!
Step 2: Knead and Rise
Now it’s time to knead! Lightly flour your work surface and turn the dough out onto it. Knead the dough for about five minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. This process develops the gluten, giving your rolls that perfect texture. Once kneaded, place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm spot. After about an hour, it should double in size, ready to be transformed into delicious rolls.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 350°F. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and ground cinnamon. This sweet and spicy mixture will be the heart of your filling, adding that irresistible flavor to your Bacon Cinnamon Rolls. Set it aside for when the dough is ready!
Step 4: Roll and Cut
Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Spread the softened unsalted butter evenly over the surface of the dough. Next, sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture generously on top, followed by the crumbled cooked bacon. Starting from one long side, roll the dough tightly into a log. Use a sharp knife to cut the log into 12 equal pieces, placing them in a greased baking dish. Each piece is a promise of deliciousness!
Step 5: Second Rise and Bake
Cover the rolls with a towel and let them rise again for about 30 minutes. This second rise is crucial for achieving that fluffy texture. While they’re rising, you can feel the anticipation building! Once they’ve puffed up, pop them into the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and your kitchen smells heavenly. Trust me, the wait will be worth it!
Step 6: Make the Icing
While the rolls are baking, it’s time to whip up the icing. In a bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. This sweet drizzle will take your Bacon Cinnamon Rolls to the next level. Once the rolls are out of the oven and slightly cooled, drizzle the icing over them. Get ready for a flavor explosion!
Tips for Success
Make sure your milk is warm, not hot, to activate the yeast properly.
Don’t rush the rising times; they’re key for fluffy rolls.
Use a sharp knife or dental floss to cut the dough for clean edges.
Experiment with different types of bacon for unique flavors.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
Equipment Needed
Mixing bowls: A set of various sizes is ideal; you can use any large bowl if needed.
Rolling pin: Essential for rolling out the dough; a wine bottle can work in a pinch!
Baking dish: A 9×13 inch dish is perfect; any oven-safe dish will do.
Sharp knife: For cutting the rolls; a pizza cutter can also be handy.
Whisk: Great for mixing the icing; a fork can serve the same purpose.
Variations
Maple Bacon: Drizzle maple syrup over the filling for a sweet twist that complements the bacon perfectly.
Nutty Delight: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling for an extra crunch and flavor.
Cheesy Goodness: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the filling for a savory, cheesy version of these rolls.
Vegan Option: Substitute the butter with coconut oil and use a flax egg to make these rolls plant-based.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these rolls suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Bacon Cinnamon Rolls with a hot cup of coffee or a refreshing glass of orange juice for a delightful breakfast experience.
Serve them warm on a rustic wooden platter, garnished with fresh fruit for a pop of color.
For a brunch gathering, offer a side of scrambled eggs or a light salad to balance the richness.
FAQs about Bacon Cinnamon Rolls
Can I make Bacon Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and filling the night before. Just assemble the rolls, cover them, and refrigerate. In the morning, let them rise for about 30 minutes before baking. This makes for a quick breakfast treat!
What type of bacon works best for these rolls?
I recommend using thick-cut bacon for a hearty bite. It adds a nice crunch and flavor. However, feel free to experiment with different types, like maple or peppered bacon, to find your favorite combination!
Can I freeze Bacon Cinnamon Rolls?
Yes, you can! After baking, let the rolls cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil. They can be frozen for up to three months. Just reheat them in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy!
How do I store leftover rolls?
Store any leftover Bacon Cinnamon Rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. Just warm them up before serving!
Can I substitute the bacon with something else?
Definitely! If you’re not a bacon fan, try using cooked sausage or even a mix of both for a different flavor profile. You can also go meatless and add nuts or chocolate chips for a sweet twist!
Final Thoughts
Creating these Bacon Cinnamon Rolls is more than just baking; it’s about crafting a moment of joy. The sweet and savory combination brings smiles to the breakfast table, making every bite a delightful experience. Whether you’re sharing them with family or enjoying them solo, these rolls have a way of turning an ordinary day into something special. The aroma fills your home, wrapping you in warmth and nostalgia. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the process, and let these Bacon Cinnamon Rolls become a cherished part of your culinary adventures. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Delicious bacon cinnamon rolls that combine sweet and savory flavors for a delightful treat.
Ingredients
Scale
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup whole milk, warmed
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
In a large bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, yeast, and salt. In a separate bowl, mix the warmed milk, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until a dough forms.
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Preheat the oven to 350°F. In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon for the filling.
Roll out the risen dough into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Spread the softened butter over the dough, then sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture evenly on top. Finally, sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the filling.
Starting from one long side, roll the dough tightly into a log. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces and place them in a greased baking dish.
Cover the rolls with a towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
While the rolls are baking, prepare the icing by whisking together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Once the rolls are done, let them cool for a few minutes before drizzling with the icing. Serve warm.
Notes
For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the bacon before crumbling it.
Substitute the bacon with cooked sausage or a mix of both for a different flavor profile.
