Cinnamon Sugar Bacon Donuts with Bourbon Whipped Cream: A Sweet & Savory Delight
There’s something magical about the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and a touch of boozy decadence. These **Cinnamon Sugar Bacon Donuts with Bourbon Whipped Cream** capture that harmony in every bite. Imagine the warm aroma of cinnamon sugar wafting through your kitchen, the crispy saltiness of bacon meeting the delicate sweetness of a fluffy donut, all topped with a dollop of rich bourbon whipped cream. This recipe is your answer to impressing brunch guests or indulging in a gourmet dessert at home.
If you’re looking for a dessert that’s as show-stopping as it is comforting, this recipe ticks all the boxes. From the golden-brown donuts dusted in a sugary cinnamon coating to the creamy, boozy topping and crunchy bacon bits, every element complements the next. Let’s dive into the details of how to craft this culinary masterpiece.
Quick Recipe Highlights
- Flavor Profile: The perfect marriage of buttery, sweet donuts with salty bacon and a touch of warm spice from the cinnamon.
- Texture: Fluffy baked donuts with a crispy bacon crunch, finished with silky whipped cream.
- Aroma: Warm, comforting notes of cinnamon, vanilla, and smoky bacon.
- Visual Appeal: Golden-brown donuts dusted with cinnamon sugar, topped with dollops of cream and garnished with crispy bacon bits.
- Skill Level Needed: Intermediate – simple techniques like mixing, baking, and whipping involved.
- Special Equipment: Donut pan, whisk, and hand or stand mixer for the whipped cream.
Recipe Overview
- Difficulty Level: With straightforward techniques like whisking ingredients and folding in bacon, this recipe is approachable for most home bakers. However, perfecting the whipped cream texture and ensuring proper donut consistency may take some finesse.
- Category: Dessert, Brunch, Sweet Treats
- Cuisine: Modern American with a gourmet twist
- Cost: Affordable – most ingredients are pantry staples, with the only splurge being bourbon.
- Occasion: Ideal for brunch gatherings, dessert tables, or as a standout party treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
1. **Taste and Texture Appeal:** These donuts deliver a delightful combo of sweet and savory flavors, complemented by a tender crumb and crisp bacon bits. The cinnamon sugar coating adds just the right spice, while the bourbon whipped cream provides a smooth, decadent finish.
2. **Convenience and Preparation Benefits:** Unlike fried donuts, these baked beauties come together without the need for a deep fryer. Plus, the bourbon whipped cream can be whipped up ahead of time for easy assembly.
3. **Social and Entertaining Value:** Serve these at your next brunch, and watch them disappear in minutes. The playful twist of bacon and bourbon will spark conversation and leave guests raving.
4. **Cost-Effectiveness and Accessibility:** Most ingredients used here are everyday staples, making this indulgent treat surprisingly budget-friendly.
The Recipe
Cinnamon Sugar Bacon Donuts with Bourbon Whipped Cream
Serves: 12 donuts
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 12 mins
Total Time: 32 mins
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Donut pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Wire rack
- Hand or stand mixer (for whipped cream)
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 6 slices bacon, cooked crispy and chopped
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for topping)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for topping)
- 1 cup heavy cream (whipped)
- 2 tablespoons bourbon
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a donut pan with butter or non-stick spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, 1/2 cup sugar, baking powder, salt, and 1 teaspoon cinnamon. Stir to combine.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. The batter should be slightly lumpy.
- Fold in chopped bacon, reserving some for garnish.
- Spoon the batter into the donut pan, filling each cavity about two-thirds full. Smooth tops if necessary.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- While donuts cool for 5 minutes, mix 1/4 cup sugar with 1 teaspoon cinnamon for topping.
- Dip warm donuts into the cinnamon sugar mixture, coating the tops evenly.
- For the bourbon whipped cream, fold bourbon into freshly whipped heavy cream until smooth.
- Top each donut with a dollop of bourbon cream and garnish with reserved bacon bits.
Recipe Notes
- If you prefer not to use alcohol, substitute bourbon with a teaspoon of vanilla extract for the whipped cream.
- Make sure the bacon is crispy for the best texture and flavor contrast.
- Store leftover donuts in an airtight container for up to 2 days, though they are best enjoyed fresh.
Pro Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Sugar Bacon Donuts
- Chill the whipping cream and bowl before making the bourbon cream for better texture.
- Use a piping bag for neat and even filling of the donut pans.
- Toast the sugar-cinnamon topping slightly for extra flavor depth.
Enjoy making and savoring these bold and indulgent treats!