Some mornings call for something extra special—a bake that fills your kitchen with buttery warmth, maple sweetness, and just a hint of something savory. These Maple Candied Turkey Bacon Cinnamon Rolls bring together the best of both worlds: soft, fluffy rolls layered with cinnamon sugar and topped with a creamy maple glaze and crisp candied turkey bacon. It’s the kind of recipe that turns a simple weekend breakfast into a cozy brunch celebration. Trust me, this is one you’ll want to pin for later!

Why You’ll Love It

Perfect brunch balance: The mix of sweet maple glaze and savory candied turkey bacon makes every bite unforgettable.
Soft and fluffy dough: A tender, bakery-style texture that melts in your mouth.
Make-ahead friendly: Prep the night before, refrigerate, and bake fresh in the morning.
Alcohol-free indulgence: All the flavor without a drop of bourbon—kid-friendly and family-approved.
Eye-catching presentation: Golden rolls with a glossy glaze and bacon sparkle—perfect for your brunch or holiday board.
Pin-worthy comfort: Cozy, fragrant, and guaranteed to get saved, shared, and baked again.

Time Needed

Prep Time: 3 hours
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 3 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 12 rolls

Ingredients

For the Candied Turkey Bacon

1 pound thick-cut turkey bacon
1/2 cup brown sugar
4 tablespoons maple syrup
1 teaspoon cracked black pepper

For the Dough

1/4 cup all-purpose flour
3/4 cup water
3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/3 cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons instant yeast
3/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
1/2 cup whole milk, room temperature
1 large egg, room temperature
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

For the Cinnamon Filling

1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
2/3 cup light brown sugar
2 teaspoons cinnamon
1 cup candied turkey bacon, chopped

For the Maple Glaze

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature
2 oz cream cheese, room temperature
3/4 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
1/2 cup candied turkey bacon pieces (for topping)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Candied Bacon Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lay the turkey bacon in a single layer. Stir together brown sugar, maple syrup, and black pepper, then brush it over each strip. Bake for 30–40 minutes until glossy and crisp. Cool completely before chopping.
Prepare the Tangzhong Starter In a small saucepan, whisk together 1/4 cup flour and 3/4 cup water. Cook over medium heat, whisking until thick like a paste. Transfer to a bowl and cool slightly—this will give your rolls that signature pillowy texture.
Mix the Dough Combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt in a mixer bowl. Add milk, egg, and the cooled tangzhong. Mix with a dough hook on low for 2 minutes until shaggy. Gradually add softened butter and knead until smooth and elastic, about 10 minutes. The dough should pull away from the sides but cling to the bottom.
First Rise Shape the dough into a ball, place it in a buttered bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled.
Assemble the Rolls Roll dough into a 15×18-inch rectangle. Spread softened butter, then sprinkle with brown sugar and cinnamon. Scatter chopped candied turkey bacon evenly. Roll tightly and cut into 12 rolls. Arrange in a buttered 9×13-inch pan, cover, and let rise again for 1 hour.
Bake Preheat the oven to 325°F (162°C). Bake rolls for 25–30 minutes until golden brown and puffed. Let cool slightly on a wire rack.
Make the Maple Glaze Beat butter and cream cheese until smooth. Mix in powdered sugar and maple syrup until silky. Spread over warm rolls, then sprinkle remaining candied turkey bacon on top for a glossy, crunchy finish.

Variations to Try

Apple Maple Twist: Add finely chopped apples inside the filling for a fall-inspired flavor.
Pecan Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans on top before glazing for a nutty bite.
Salted Caramel Finish: Drizzle with homemade caramel for a bakery-style upgrade.
Mini Roll Version: Make smaller rolls for brunch platters or holiday buffets.

Tips from Chef Emma

Always use fresh yeast for the best rise.
Chill the dough after the first rise for easy rolling.
Use room-temperature butter and milk—cold ingredients can slow the rise.
Warm the glaze slightly before spreading—it melts beautifully into the rolls.

Nutrition Info per Serving

Serving Size: 1 roll
Calories: 320
Carbohydrates: 45g
Sugars: 26g
Fat: 12g
Protein: 6g
Sodium: 240mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make these cinnamon rolls ahead of time?
A: Yes! Assemble the rolls, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Bake the next morning for fresh, gooey results.
Q: Can I freeze them?
A: Absolutely. Freeze baked rolls without glaze for up to 2 months. Thaw and glaze before serving.
Q: Can I use regular bacon?
A: You can, but turkey bacon gives a leaner, crisp finish that balances the sweetness beautifully.
Q: How do I reheat leftovers?
A: Warm in the oven at 300°F for 10 minutes or microwave for 20 seconds per roll.

Final Thoughts

These Maple Candied Turkey Bacon Cinnamon Rolls are the ultimate cozy brunch indulgence. Each swirl is soft, golden, and dripping with maple glaze, perfectly complemented by the sweet-salty crunch of caramelized turkey bacon. Whether it’s a weekend treat or a holiday breakfast centerpiece, they’re guaranteed to make everyone smile. Save this recipe to your brunch or baking board so it’s ready for your next cozy morning!