Maple bacon twists are a fun and delicious treat that combines crispy bacon and sweet maple syrup. These flaky, twisted pastries are perfect for breakfast or a special snack.
Honestly, who can resist the sweet and salty combo of maple and bacon? I make these for brunch, and they always disappear fast—be ready to share or maybe just enjoy them all yourself! 🤫
Making them is simple; just wrap bacon around dough, drizzle with maple, and bake until golden. You’ll be the star of the kitchen with these tasty delights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: This is the foundation of your maple bacon twists. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try using gluten-free puff pastry available at many grocery stores. You can also use crescent roll dough as a substitute, although the texture will be slightly different.
Bacon: I recommend using regular cut bacon for the best twist—it’s just crispier! If you prefer a healthier option, turkey bacon or even veggie bacon can work, but the flavors will differ a bit.
Maple Syrup: Go for the pure maple syrup; it makes a big difference in flavor. If you’re out of maple syrup, honey is a good alternative for sweetness, but the flavor will change slightly.
Coarse Sea Salt: While optional, a sprinkle of coarse sea salt really enhances the flavors. If you don’t have sea salt, kosher salt works well too!
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Twist?
Making the perfect twist is all about the wrapping technique. It’s important to slightly overlap the bacon on the pastry to ensure it sticks together and cooks evenly. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with one end of the puff pastry strip and layer the bacon evenly on top, covering about half of the pastry.
- As you wrap, give a gentle twist to create a spiral effect. This technique helps the bacon cling to the pastry better.
- Don’t rush—ensuring that the bacon overlaps slightly will prevent it from unraveling during baking.
After baking, let them cool just enough to avoid burns and serve them warm for the best experience!
How to Make Maple Bacon Twists
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 sheet of puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
- 8 slices of bacon
- 3-4 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- Optional: coarse sea salt for sprinkling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take approximately 10 minutes to prep and about 20-25 minutes to bake, totaling around 35 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and easy way to make a delightful treat for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to make cleanup a breeze!
2. Prepare the Puff Pastry:
On a clean, lightly floured surface, unfold the puff pastry. With a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, slice it into 8 equal strips. Try to make the cuts as straight as possible for even twists.
3. Wrap the Bacon Around the Pastry:
Now, take one strip of puff pastry and grab a slice of bacon. Starting at one end of the pastry strip, wrap the bacon slice around it, overlapping a bit as you twist to create a spiral. This helps ensure the bacon stays put while cooking!
4. Arrange on the Baking Sheet:
Gently place each twisted pastry onto your prepared baking sheet. Be sure to space them out so that they can puff up nicely without sticking together while baking.
5. Add Maple Goodness:
Generously brush or drizzle each twist with pure maple syrup. This not only adds sweetness but also helps create a nice caramelization as they bake.
6. Sprinkle with Sea Salt (Optional):
If you like a bit of contrast, sprinkle some coarse sea salt over the twists. This adds a delightful crunch that balances the sweet maple beautifully!
7. Bake to Perfection:
Pop the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crisp and the puff pastry is golden brown and beautifully puffed. Keep an eye on them to make sure they don’t get too brown!
8. Cool and Serve:
Once out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes before serving. These treats are best enjoyed warm, but they’re also delicious at room temperature. Dive in and enjoy the delightful blend of crispy bacon, flaky pastry, and sweet maple!
These Maple Bacon Twists are a fantastic addition to any breakfast spread or as a stand-alone snack. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Pre-Cooked Bacon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked bacon! Just be mindful that it won’t crisp up as much during baking, so you may want to reduce the baking time slightly. Just wrap and bake until everything is heated through and the pastry is golden.
Can I Make These Twists in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the twists, wrap them in plastic wrap or parchment, and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to brush them with maple syrup right before you pop them in the oven.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain their crispiness.
What Can I Serve with Maple Bacon Twists?
These twists pair beautifully with brunch items like scrambled eggs or a fresh fruit salad. They’re also delicious with a side of maple syrup for dipping or drizzling on top!
