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Who says cinnamon rolls must be purely sweet? These decadent pastries combine the cozy warmth of cinnamon and brown sugar with the unexpectedly satisfying saltiness of crispy bacon and gooey cheese. It’s a game-changer that’ll leave your taste buds on cloud nine.
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
- 1 packet (2¼ teaspoons) instant yeast
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ cup warm milk (about 110°F)
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup brown sugar (for filling)
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 6 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked until crisp
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup (optional, for drizzling)
Instructions
Begin by making the dough. In a large bowl, whisk the flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt. In a separate bowl, blend the warm milk, egg, and melted butter until well combined. Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms. If it seems sticky, sprinkle in a bit more flour until it’s just workable.
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead gently for about five minutes, adding flour as needed to prevent sticking. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a clean towel, and let it rest in a warm spot for about an hour, or until it doubles in size.
Once the dough has risen, roll it out into a large rectangle roughly 14×9 inches. Evenly sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon over the surface. Crumble the bacon and scatter it across the dough, followed by the shredded cheddar. Starting with the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log, then slice it into eight or nine individual rolls. Arrange them in a greased baking dish, cover, and let them rise again for 20 minutes. Finally, bake your rolls in a 350°F oven for 20–25 minutes, or until golden-brown. For extra pizzazz, drizzle a little maple syrup on top while they’re still warm.
These sweet-and-savory cinnamon rolls are a wonderful fusion for brunch lovers, bacon enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a twist on a classic. They’re delicious straight out of the oven and can be easily adapted with turkey bacon or vegan cheese if you’re looking for lighter or meatless options. The combination of sugary sweetness, smoky bacon, and melted cheddar is unexpected yet perfectly balanced, bringing joy to anyone who takes a bite.
