
This irresistible recipe transforms classic cinnamon rolls into a sweet and savory morning treat with a buttery swirl of maple and bacon. I discovered this shortcut version during a last-minute brunch panic and it instantly became the most-requested special occasion breakfast in my house. If you are looking for a fuss-free showstopper for weekend mornings or holiday brunches this recipe will not disappoint.
Ever since I baked these for a birthday breakfast my family has begged for them any time we have guests over. The smell alone makes everyone gather in the kitchen before the pan is even out of the oven.
Ingredients
- Pillsbury Cinnamon Rolls: The secret shortcut for bakery-style rolls with minimal effort Check the can date and choose one without dents for the freshest result
- Bacon: Choose thick-cut for chewy texture or standard for crisper bites Check for a good balance of meat and fat for best flavor
- Brown sugar: Adds rich caramel hints and helps bacon get gorgeously glazed Choose dark brown for deeper molasses notes
- Maple syrup: For that signature sweet finish Always choose pure over artificial for best flavor and avoid any with added sugar
- Maple frosting: The included cinnamon roll icing gets an upgrade with more syrup for a double hit of maple flavor make sure to fully blend for a glossy glaze
Instructions
- Prep the Bacon:
- Lay bacon strips on a foil-lined baking sheet and bake in a preheated 375°F oven for 15 minutes This partially cooks the bacon so it stays crisp inside the rolls
- Glaze and Finish Bacon:
- Mix brown sugar with maple syrup then brush over bacon strips Return to the oven for another 15 minutes This creates a shiny flavorful glaze that clings to each piece
- Cool Chop and Set Aside:
- Let bacon cool on a rack then chop into small even pieces This makes stuffing and topping the rolls super easy Reserve half for the filling and half for topping
- Stuff and Shape Cinnamon Rolls:
- Unroll each cinnamon roll flat Scatter some chopped bacon along the inside then gently roll them back up Place in a greased round pan as directed on the cinnamon roll packaging
- Bake the Rolls:
- Bake the pan of cinnamon rolls at 350°F using the time on the Pillsbury can The rolls should be puffed and golden and the bacon inside will be perfectly tender
- Maple Glaze Prep:
- While rolls bake stir 1 tablespoon of maple syrup into the can of included frosting Mix until fully smooth and pourable for easy drizzling
- Finish and Serve:
- Once the rolls are baked spread the maple glaze generously over the tops Sprinkle over the reserved bacon so every bite has that sweet and smoky crunch Serve warm from the pan for best flavor

Nothing beats the sigh my kids let out when they taste it for the first time and ask for seconds before they are even done their first.
Storage Tips
These rolls are best fresh but will keep for up to two days covered at room temperature If you have leftovers gently reheat them in a low oven or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to restore the gooey texture
Ingredient Substitutions
If you want to make them vegetarian you can skip the bacon or use a quality plant-based bacon substitute Swap maple syrup for honey if that is what you have but maple truly gives the best aroma
Serving Suggestions
Serve these cinnamon rolls as the star of a holiday breakfast platter or for a lazy weekend brunch Pair them with fresh fruit eggs or creamy Greek yogurt for a complete menu If you have a sweet tooth drizzle on extra maple syrup right before serving
Cultural Notes
Bacon and maple are a classic North American comfort food pairing often found in diner pancakes and waffles These rolls bring that spirit home in a fun modern way that anyone can pull off no matter their baking experience
Seasonal Adaptations
Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the glaze for a warm winter twist Sprinkle toasted pecans or walnuts with the bacon for crunch in the fall Brighten the glaze with orange zest and serve with berries in the spring
Success Stories
I first made these on a chilly winter morning for friends visiting from out of town The entire pan vanished before anyone sat down and now it is my secret weapon for making guests feel special
Freezer Meal Conversion
To freeze bake the rolls as instructed but skip the glaze and bacon topping Let them cool completely wrap well and freeze When ready to serve thaw glaze bake for a few minutes to warm and sprinkle with fresh bacon

These cinnamon rolls will wow guests every time and become a requested favorite for years to come. Enjoy the sweet and salty combination any time you need a breakfast treat.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use homemade cinnamon roll dough?
Yes, homemade dough works well. Ensure it's rolled out, filled with bacon, and baked according to your dough's instructions.
- → How crispy should the bacon be?
Bake the bacon until just crispy. This prevents it from becoming too hard after a second bake inside the rolls.
- → Is the maple glaze essential?
The maple glaze adds sweetness and pairs well with the salty bacon, but you can use plain icing if preferred.
- → Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate unbaked rolls overnight. Bake fresh in the morning and glaze before serving.
- → What’s the best way to chop bacon for filling?
Once cooled, cut bacon into small bits so each bite contains both savory and sweet elements evenly.