Maple Bacon Doughnuts

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Let me put you on to these Maple Bacon Doughnuts that are straight-up game changers, and guess what? We’re kicking things off with some super simple store-bought biscuits – yes, the kind you just pop out of the can. We’re gonna fry these babies up to golden perfection, then drizzle them with a lush maple glaze that’s sweet like a Sunday morning and sprinkle them with crispy bacon bits that are basically little pieces of heaven. It’s like bringing the soul of brunch into each bite.

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Maple bacon doughnuts with two more in the background

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Y’all, these Maple Bacon Doughnuts are hitting every note of perfection. I mean, bacon? Can we even have a convo where bacon doesn’t come out as the MVP? It’s like, bacon never does us dirty – it’s always bringing its A-game to every dish. And let me tell you, I’ve been on this sweet and savory vibe lately, getting all kinds of creative with bacon in my desserts. So, sliding some crispy bacon into a doughnut recipe? Honey, that was a no-brainer, like, the most natural next step for this flavor journey I’m on.

Table of Contents

The Heart & Soul Of Maple Bacon Doughnuts

Cuisine Inspiration: American
Cooking Method: Frying
Key Flavor: Sweet and Savory
Skill Level: Beginner

Sweet Spots

Golden Brown Perfection: Browned to perfection on the stovetop, these no-fuss biscuit doughnuts offer the crunchy and warm mouthfeel of homemade donuts without dealing with rising dough and yeast.
Maple Glaze Indulgence: Whisked to a smooth and pourable consistency, this maple glaze coats each doughnut, creating a yummy, sweet layer that lets the bacon bits stick to each one nicely.
Bacon Bliss: Elevate the flavor profile with the addition of bacon bits. Crispy and diced into small pieces, these bacon bits provide a savory and sweet bite each time.
Irresistible Aroma: The combination of fried dough, maple glaze, and bacon will fill your house with the sweet scent of a bakery.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weekend brunch, a special celebration, or just a sweet craving, these Maple Bacon Doughnuts are perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients to make Maple Bacon Doughnuts

Fryin’ High with Vegetable Oil: You’re gonna need this for frying those doughnuts to golden perfection. It’s all about that crisp!
Biscuits: Grab a 16.3-ounce can of Grands! biscuits. These bad boys are your shortcut to doughnut heaven.
Powdered Sugar: A sweet half-cup of powdered sugar brings the sweet magic. It’s all about the glaze!
Butter: A teaspoon of melted butter is like the secret handshake in this mix. It’s the smooth operator in your glaze.
Maple Syrup: Two tablespoons of pure maple syrup – because what’s a maple bacon doughnut without the star of the show?
Vanilla: Half a teaspoon of pure vanilla extract to add that sweet, aromatic charm. It’s the whisper of wonder in your glaze.
Bacon Bits: Three slices of Hormel bacon, fried or baked until crispy, then diced into small pieces for that salty, savory kick. It’s the crunch that makes your heart flutter!

How To Make Maple Bacon Doughnuts

Heat oil over high heat.
Separate the biscuits and cut out a hole in the center of each using the top of your plastic oil container to create the doughnuts.
Fry each doughnut until golden brown on both sides and drain on a cooling rack with paper towels beneath.
While doughnuts drain, whisk together powdered sugar, butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth and pourable in a medium sized bowl.
Dip one side of each doughnut into the maple glaze and place on a cooling rack.
Sprinkle bacon bits over the glaze of each doughnut and serve.

Close up of a maple bacon doughnut with more in the background and out of focus

Tips for making the best maple bacon doughnuts

Perfect Temperature for Frying: Ensure the oil is heated to the right temperature. Use a kitchen or candy thermometer to maintain a consistent high heat for frying.
Efficient Doughnut Cutting: When cutting a hole in the center of each biscuit to create the doughnuts, use the top of your plastic oil container or something similar. This ensures each circle is uniform.
Enjoy Fresh or Store Properly: Maple Bacon Doughnuts are best enjoyed fresh. Store what you don’t eat properly for freshness. Though, I doubt you’ll have many leftovers!

Popular substitutions & additions

Bacon Upgrades: If you’re feeling adventurous, try different types of bacon, such as turkey bacon or peppered versions, for an extra kick.
Alternative Sugars: Cut down on refined powdered sugars by opting for coconut sugar or monk fruit sweetener in the icing for a less processed sweetness.
Swap Maple Syrup: If pure maple syrup isn’t to your taste, use your favorite maple syrup or try some alternatives like honey or agave syrup for a sweet glaze with a unique flavor profile.

What to serve with Maple Doughnuts

This combo is sure to satisfy all your sweet and savory cravings.

Southern Shrimp and Grits: For a brunch that hits every note, try these doughnuts alongside the creamy and comforting flavors found in Southern Shrimp and Grits.
Cream Cheese Pound Cake: If you’re in a celebratory mood or looking for the perfect dessert duo, match the rich maple doughnuts with a slice of velvety Cream Cheese Pound Cake.
Southern Baked Mac and Cheese: Add a side of ooey-gooey Southern Baked Mac and Cheese for a comforting, indulgent meal that’ll be a hit for both kids and adults alike.
Crispy Fried Chicken: Make a memorable meal by combining these maple bacon doughnuts with the ultimate comfort food, Crispy Fried Chicken.

How to store & reheat Maple Bacon Doughnuts

To store these maple bacon doughnuts, place them in an airtight container at room temperature; they’ll stay fresh for up to two days. Remember, these treats are best enjoyed fresh for that perfect balance of sweet and savory goodness!

How long will Maple Bacon Doughnuts last in the fridge?

If you want to keep them a bit longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week, though this might affect their texture slightly.

Can I freeze doughnuts?

Yep! Freeze any leftover donuts you have for later. Place them in a resealable freezer bag, and remove as much of the air as possible. Freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.

Frequently asked questions

Does it matter what type of biscuits I use?

I would avoid using a layered or flaky biscuit. These may tend to fall apart during the frying process. The Grands! homestyle original biscuits work the best. They’ll hold their shape well during frying and when cutting the donut hole.

Why are my doughnuts not turning golden brown?

The oil needs to be heated to 375 F for the donuts to cook through without burning on the outside. Using a candy thermometer will keep track of the temperature throughout the whole process. Once you add dough to the oil, the temperature will go down. Overcrowding the pan will greatly reduce the temperature, causing the donuts to soak up the oil instead of fry to a golden brown within it.

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