Homemade Maple Bacon Donuts

Hey there! I’ve had my share of kitchen mishaps. I’ve burned cookies, overmixed batter, and even used salt instead of sugar in a cake. But, these maple bacon donuts? They’re my kitchen comeback story!

After years of searching for the perfect sweet-salty mix, I found it. I used turkey bacon and real maple syrup. No fancy tools needed. Just messy kitchen love turned into something amazing. You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to make these treats at home!

Key Takeaways

• Maple syrup makes all the difference, no artificial syrups allowed!
• Step-by-step tips for golden-brown fried donuts (no deep fryer needed!).
• Glaze consistency hacks so it sticks but doesn’t slide off.
• Pro tricks to get that perfect bacon crunch without crispy edges.

The Irresistible Appeal of Maple Bacon Donuts

Ever typed “maple bacon donuts near me” into Google? I have! That first bite of maple glaze and turkey bacon? *Mind blown*. It’s not just a snack; it’s a flavor revolution!

A Sweet and Savory Sensation Sweeping America

This isn’t your grandma’s breakfast! Sweet and salty has taken the U.S. by storm. Search trends show “maple bacon donuts near me” spikes every weekend. It’s not a fad; it’s a phenomenon!

Think about it: chewy donut + crispy bacon bits = breakfast perfection. No wonder lines wrap around blocks!

The Origin Story Behind This Culinary Trend

Let’s go back to 2008. A few bold chefs asked, “Why can’t breakfast be rebellious?” They swapped syrup for glaze, added bacon, and boom, history! My first taste was at a Portland shop where I waited 2 hours… and it was WORTH IT.

Pro tip: today’s home cooks use turkey bacon for that same smoky punch without the pork. Check out how similar magic happens with French toast bagel blends for more flavor mashup ideas!

Why Home Bakers Are Embracing This Flavor Combination

Here’s the secret: making these at home is easier than you think! Plus, you avoid the 2-hour lines. Pro reasons to DIY:

• Control the sweetness (hi, no added alcohol!)
• Use pantry staples like cinnamon and vanilla
• Show off at weekend brunches

Trust me, once you nail that crispy turkey bacon topping, you’ll never settle for plain donuts again.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Maple Bacon Donuts

My first attempt at maple and bacon donuts was a mess. I used cheap turkey bacon and fake syrup. It was a flavor disaster. But after many tries, I found the perfect mix. Here’s what you need for these donuts:

Selecting the Right Bacon Alternative (Turkey Bacon Options)

Thick-cut turkey bacon is essential. I tried brands like Applegate Farms and found that minimal-processing options taste better. Avoid anything with “liquid smoke” as it ruins the flavor. Look for slices that get crispy without being greasy.

Choosing Quality Maple Syrup for Authentic Flavor

Real maple syrup is a must. Fake syrup tastes like chemicals. Grade A Dark Robust has a bold flavor that pairs well with smoky bacon. Your taste buds will love it!

Doughnut Base Ingredients for the Perfect Texture

• All-purpose flour (bread flour makes ’em tough, nope!)
• Sugar, baking powder, salt, eggs, milk, vanilla, and a pinch of nutmeg (the secret texture hero!)

Let the dough rest for 30 minutes. This step is key for fluffiness!

Equipment You’ll Need for Homemade Success

• Stand mixer (hand-mixing’s an arm workout, but doable)
• Candy thermometer (no guessing oil temps!)
• Heavy pot like a Dutch oven (flimsy pans = uneven frying)
• 3-inch donut cutter (or improvise with cookie cutters)

Frying in a cheap pan led to burnt edges and soggy centers. A Dutch oven made all the difference. And remember, have paper towels ready to avoid greasy messes!

Step-by-Step Maple Bacon Donut Recipe

Alright, let’s get rolling! These maple bacon donuts are easier than you think, promise! Follow my exact process, minus my rookie mistakes. Ready? Here’s the play-by-play:

1. Prep the dough: Whisk 4 cups flour, ⅓ cup sugar, 2 tsp baking powder, 1 tsp salt, and a pinch of nutmeg. Mix eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla until smooth. Combine wet and dry ingredients, stop mixing when it’s just blended! Overmixing = tough donuts (ask me how I know).
2. Rest & bacon time: Let dough rest 30 minutes, this part’s non-negotiable. While it chills, bake 8 turkey bacon slices at 375°F for 15-20 mins until crispy. Chop once cooled.
3. Cut & fry: Roll dough to ½-inch thickness. Cut out rounds (save the holes for mini snacks!). Heat oil to 350°F, use a thermometer! Fry 1 min per side. Don’t walk away like I did and end up with charcoal-flavored disasters.
4. Glaze & top: Mix powdered sugar, maple syrup, milk, and vanilla. Dip warm donuts, sprinkle bacon crumbles, and let glaze set. Resist eating them immediately (good luck!).

Pro tip: Let dough rest! I skipped it once and had hockey pucks. Also, keep bacon crispy, soft bacon = sad donuts. And no, I won’t judge if you test the oil temp with a donut scrap. We’ve all been there.

Perfecting Your Maple Glaze and Bacon Topping

Let’s talk about the final magic that turns homemade maple and bacon donuts into showstoppers! I’ve burned bacon, had lopsided glaze drips, and even forgotten to turn on the oven. So, these tips are hard-earned wisdom.

Starting with the maple glaze: The key is balancing thickness. If it’s too runny, add powdered sugar. Too thick? Mix in milk, a teaspoon at a time. Pro tip: Let your donuts cool slightly but keep the glaze just warm. This helps it cling perfectly. I use a fork to drizzle extra glaze on top for that bakery shine!

Now, the bacon! Skip the soggy mess, bake turkey bacon at 375°F until it’s super crispy. Overcooked? Break it into bite-sized pieces. Undercooked? Pop it back in for 2-3 more minutes. Once crisp, chop into small chunks, big enough to crunch but not overpower the donut.

Assembly time! Here’s my no-fail method:

• Dip the donut top-side down into the glaze, then lift at a 45-degree angle.
• Hold over the bowl for 3 seconds to let excess drip off.
• Sprinkle bacon pieces from 6 inches above, this spreads them evenly without clumping.

Let them sit on a rack for 10 minutes. That’s it! Now your maple and bacon donuts will look as good as they taste. No more sad, gluey glaze or floppy bacon bits, just perfect bites every time!

Variations and Serving Suggestions

Ready to elevate your maple bacon treats? Let’s dive into new ideas beyond the classic doughnut! Mini donut holes are a hit, disappearing quickly.

Begin with mini donut holes. Use leftover dough or cutouts, fry for 30-45 seconds, then glaze and sprinkle with turkey bacon. They’re great for parties or quick snacks. Next, try the dunkin donuts maple bacon sandwich trend that went viral on TikTok! Split a glazed doughnut, add cream cheese and maple syrup, crispy bacon, and a fried egg. My husband loves it so much, he asks for it every weekend.

• Breakfast upgrade: Add avocado or scrambled eggs for a savory twist
• Gluten-free option: Swap the doughnut with a gluten-free base (I tested this, works like a charm!)
• Gift idea: Package 4-6 donuts in a twine-tied box for friends, they’ll think you’re a genius!

Enjoy these treats with coffee or apple cider for a cozy feel. For a lighter choice, try a Greek yogurt smoothie. Remember, don’t be afraid to experiment! My first dunkin donuts maple bacon sandwich was soggy, but now it’s a hit. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your creations on Instagram!

Conclusion

No need to worry about “maple bacon donuts near me” when you can make them at home! Late-night cravings? We’ve got you covered. The first time you get that perfect donut, it’s like unlocking a secret.

Using turkey bacon keeps the flavor strong without pork. And that maple glaze? It’s like magic. Every time you fry a batch, your kitchen will smell amazing. It’s like a magnet for your neighbors.

My neighbor once thought something was burning, but it was just the smell of perfect donuts. Don’t worry if your first batch isn’t perfect. My second batch had a donut that stuck, but it was delicious. Share your mistakes with friends and have fun.

Now it’s your turn to make these amazing donuts. Get your ingredients ready and let the oil heat up. Your kitchen will be the place to be. Share your successes and failures in the comments. Cooking is always better when shared.

Watching someone enjoy their first bite is the best part. Happy frying and remember, practice makes progress!

Maple Bacon Donut

These homemade maple bacon donuts combine the perfect balance of sweet maple glaze and smoky, crispy turkey bacon. A must-try treat for any breakfast lover!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Course Breakfast, Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 12 donuts

Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

• Mixing Bowls
• Dutch oven or heavy pot
• Rolling Pin
• 3-inch donut cutter
• Candy thermometer
• Paper towels

Ingredients

  

Dough

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 pinch nutmeg optional, enhances flavor
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• 4 tbsp melted butter
• 2 tsp vanilla extract

Glaze

• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
• 2 tbsp whole milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Topping

• 8 slices turkey bacon baked until crispy

Instructions

 

• In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and nutmeg.
• In another bowl, whisk eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla until well combined.
• Slowly mix wet ingredients into dry ingredients until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
• Let the dough rest for 30 minutes to allow gluten to relax and improve texture.
• Preheat oil to 350°F (175°C) in a heavy pot or Dutch oven.
• Roll dough to ½-inch thickness and cut into donut shapes.
• Carefully fry each donut for 1 minute per side until golden brown.
• Remove donuts from oil and place on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
• For the glaze, whisk powdered sugar, maple syrup, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
• Dip warm donuts into the maple glaze and let excess drip off.
• Sprinkle crispy turkey bacon crumbles over the glaze while it’s still wet.
• Let the glaze set for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

For extra crispy bacon, bake turkey bacon at 375°F for 15-20 minutes before chopping. Store leftover donuts in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Keyword Homemade Donuts, Maple Bacon Donut, Sweet and Salty Donut