Bacon Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful twist on the classic cinnamon roll, combining the sweet, sticky flavor of cinnamon with the savory, smoky richness of bacon. This decadent treat is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a special dessert. The crispy bacon adds a layer of complexity to the sweet dough and cinnamon filling, while the gooey icing ties it all together in one irresistible bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Bacon Cinnamon Rolls offer the perfect balance of sweet and savory, which makes them stand out from regular cinnamon rolls. The crispy bacon adds a crunchy texture, while the cinnamon and sugar filling provides that familiar comforting sweetness. With an irresistible glaze to top it off, this recipe is a game-changer that will satisfy both your sweet tooth and your craving for savory flavors.

Ingredients

1 package of refrigerated cinnamon roll dough (8 rolls)
1/2 pound of bacon, cooked and crumbled
1/4 cup of brown sugar
2 tablespoons of melted butter
1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
1/4 cup of powdered sugar (for glaze)
1 tablespoon of milk (for glaze)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook the bacon in a pan until crispy, then crumble it into small pieces. Set aside.
Roll out the refrigerated cinnamon roll dough on a clean surface and separate it into individual rolls.
In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter together to create the filling.
Spread the cinnamon mixture evenly on the dough and sprinkle the crumbled bacon on top.
Roll the dough back up and slice into individual rolls, placing them in a greased baking dish.
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the rolls are golden brown.
While the rolls are baking, prepare the glaze by mixing powdered sugar and milk in a small bowl until smooth.
Once the rolls are done baking, remove them from the oven and drizzle the glaze over the warm rolls.
Serve immediately and enjoy the sweet and savory deliciousness!

Servings and timing

Servings: 8 rolls
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

Maple Bacon: Add a tablespoon of maple syrup to the cinnamon mixture for an extra layer of flavor that pairs perfectly with the bacon.
Spicy Bacon Rolls: For a little kick, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper in the cinnamon mixture.
Cream Cheese Icing: Swap the glaze for a cream cheese icing to make the rolls even richer and creamier.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free cinnamon roll dough and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free to make this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover Bacon Cinnamon Rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place the rolls in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

Can I make Bacon Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the rolls the night before and refrigerate them overnight. Simply bake them the next morning, and they’ll be fresh and delicious.

Can I use pre-cooked bacon for this recipe?

While it’s possible to use pre-cooked bacon, freshly cooked bacon adds a better texture and flavor to the rolls.

Can I freeze Bacon Cinnamon Rolls?

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked rolls. Simply assemble them, freeze them on a baking sheet, and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Bake directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Can I use homemade cinnamon roll dough?

Absolutely! If you prefer homemade dough, feel free to use your favorite recipe in place of the refrigerated dough.

How do I know when the rolls are done baking?

The rolls are done when they are golden brown on top and the filling is bubbly. You can also insert a toothpick in the center to check if it comes out clean.

Can I add nuts to these rolls?

Yes, chopped pecans or walnuts would be a great addition to the cinnamon and bacon filling for added crunch.

Can I use a different type of meat instead of bacon?

Yes, you can experiment with other meats like sausage or pancetta for a different flavor.

How do I make the glaze thicker?

To make the glaze thicker, simply reduce the amount of milk or add a little extra powdered sugar.

Can I use brown butter for the glaze?

Yes, using brown butter for the glaze will add a rich, nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the bacon and cinnamon.

What should I serve with Bacon Cinnamon Rolls?

Bacon Cinnamon Rolls are perfect on their own, but you can also serve them with fresh fruit or a cup of coffee for the ultimate breakfast experience.

Conclusion

Bacon Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect combination of sweet, savory, and indulgent. They are easy to make, versatile, and sure to impress anyone who tries them. Whether you’re looking for a new breakfast treat or a unique dessert, this recipe will not disappoint.