Maple Bacon Twists are a tasty blend of crispy bacon and sweet maple syrup, all wrapped up in a flaky pastry. This combo is sure to make your taste buds dance!
I can’t resist these bites! It’s like breakfast and dessert had a delicious baby. Perfect for brunch or a fun snack, they pack a punch of flavor that’s hard to beat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bacon: You can choose thick or regular-cut bacon for these twists. I prefer thick-cut for a more substantial bite. If you’re looking for alternatives, turkey bacon or a vegetarian bacon substitute can work, though the texture may differ.
Puff Pastry: This is what gives your twists that flaky texture. Always keep it chilled until you’re ready to use it. For a gluten-free version, look for gluten-free puff pastry at stores or online.
Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup adds great flavor. If you don’t have maple syrup, honey or agave syrup can be sweet alternatives, but they will give a different taste.
Brown Sugar: This gives a wonderful sweetness and slight caramel flavor. If you need a substitute, white sugar mixed with a bit of molasses can mimic the taste of brown sugar.
How Do I Twist the Pastry and Bacon Together Correctly?
Twisting the pastry and bacon might seem tricky, but it’s easier than it appears! Here’s how to do it:
- Start by laying the bacon on the pastry strip.
- Wrap the pastry around the bacon, ensuring the bacon overlaps slightly with the pastry.
- Twist the wrapped strip tightly from one end to the other—this helps ensure a proper bake and holds everything together.
- Make sure it’s not too loose; if it is, the bacon might separate during baking.
Practice makes perfect! The fun is in the process, so don’t stress if they don’t look perfect the first time.
How to Make Maple Bacon Twists
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 slices of bacon
- 1 sheet of puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- Optional: a pinch of flaky sea salt for finishing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and bake. It’s quick and easy, and you get to enjoy some amazing flavors right out of the oven!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven
First things first! Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will help with easy cleanup later and keep your twists from sticking.
2. Prepare the Puff Pastry
Lay out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the pastry into 8 equal strips. Make sure they’re about the same length as your bacon slices for an even twist.
3. Add Maple Syrup
Take those pastry strips and brush each one lightly with maple syrup. This adds a sweet touch that goes perfectly with the bacon!
4. Layer on the Bacon
Now, it’s time to place one bacon slice on each pastry strip. Make sure the bacon fits well along the length of the strip for a neat twist.
5. Sprinkle with Brown Sugar
Evenly sprinkle brown sugar over the bacon pieces. This will create a nice sweet crunch as they bake!
6. Twist Them Up
Carefully twist each pastry strip together with the bacon in a nice tight spiral. Start from one end and work your way to the other. This is where the magic happens!
7. Arrange for Baking
Arrange the twisted strips on the prepared baking sheet, making sure to space them slightly apart. They will puff up as they bake!
8. Bake to Perfection
Pop the baking sheet into the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them until the bacon is crisp and the pastry is golden brown. You want them looking irresistible!
9. Finishing Touch
If you’d like, sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt over the twists right after baking. This enhances the flavors and adds a delightful contrast!
10. Enjoy Your Creation!
Let the twists cool slightly before serving. They’re perfect warm or at room temperature, making them a fantastic snack or appetizer. Enjoy your sweet and savory Maple Bacon Twists!
Can I Use Turkey Bacon Instead of Pork Bacon?
Yes, you can use turkey bacon if you prefer! Just keep in mind that turkey bacon may not get as crispy as traditional pork bacon, but it will still offer great flavor.
Can I Make These in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the twists ahead of time and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap to keep them fresh. Bake them shortly before serving for the best results.
How to Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness.
What Can I Use Instead of Puff Pastry?
If you don’t have puff pastry on hand, you can use crescent roll dough as an alternative. It will have a slightly different texture, but it will still taste delicious with the bacon and maple!
