Imagine biting into a soft, fluffy cupcake infused with warm maple and bold bourbon. Tempting, right? Now, top it with crispy bacon. Pure magic.
Today, I’m sharing a recipe that blends sweet, smoky, and boozy flavors perfectly. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just getting started, this one’s for you.
Follow along as I walk you through every step. Trust me—you don’t want to miss this indulgent treat.
What Are Maple Bourbon Cupcakes with Bacon?
These cupcakes are a game-changer. They’re soft, buttery, and flavored with real maple syrup and a touch of bourbon. The frosting? A rich, maple-infused buttercream that ties everything together.
And the bacon? It’s not just a garnish. It adds crunch, saltiness, and that irresistible smoky flavor. It’s the unexpected twist that makes these cupcakes unforgettable.
Key Terms to Know
Here are some terms that will help you understand this recipe better:
- Bourbon: A type of whiskey with caramel and vanilla notes. It enhances the cupcake’s depth of flavor.
- Maple Syrup: A natural sweetener with a distinct, woodsy taste.
- Candied Bacon: Bacon coated in sugar and baked until crisp. Adds a sweet-savory contrast.
- Buttercream Frosting: A smooth, creamy topping made with butter, sugar, and flavoring.
Materials Needed
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 1 3/4 cups | Structure for the cupcakes |
| Baking powder | 1 1/2 tsp | Helps cupcakes rise |
| Salt | 1/2 tsp | Enhances flavor |
| Unsalted butter | 1/2 cup (1 stick) | Richness and moisture |
| Brown sugar | 3/4 cup | Adds sweetness and depth |
| Maple syrup | 1/2 cup | Key flavoring agent |
| Bourbon | 2 tbsp | Infuses warmth and complexity |
| Eggs | 2 large | Binds ingredients together |
| Milk | 1/2 cup | Keeps cupcakes moist |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp | Enhances overall flavor |
| Bacon strips | 6, cooked crispy | Adds crunch and smokiness |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Batter
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake tray with liners.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat the butter and brown sugar until fluffy.
- Mix in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
- Alternate adding the flour mixture and milk to the butter mixture, stirring gently.
- Fold in the maple syrup and bourbon.
2. Bake the Cupcakes
- Divide the batter evenly into cupcake liners.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let them cool completely before frosting.
3. Make the Maple Buttercream Frosting
- Beat butter until creamy.
- Add powdered sugar gradually, mixing well.
- Pour in maple syrup and a splash of bourbon, then beat until fluffy.
4. Prepare the Candied Bacon
- Lay bacon strips on a baking sheet and sprinkle with brown sugar.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes until crispy.
- Let cool and chop into small pieces.
5. Assemble the Cupcakes
- Frost each cupcake generously with maple buttercream.
- Sprinkle chopped candied bacon on top.
- Drizzle extra maple syrup for extra flavor.
Tips for Success
- Use quality maple syrup – Cheap syrups lack depth.
- Don’t overmix – Overmixing makes cupcakes dense.
- Let cupcakes cool completely – Warm cupcakes melt frosting.
- Adjust bourbon – If serving to kids, skip the bourbon.
Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them
- Cupcakes too dry? Add a bit more milk.
- Frosting too runny? Chill it before piping.
- Bacon not crispy? Bake it longer, but watch carefully to prevent burning.
Similar Variations
- Maple Pecan Cupcakes – Add chopped pecans for extra crunch.
- Whiskey Bacon Cupcakes – Swap bourbon for whiskey.
- Caramel Maple Cupcakes – Drizzle with caramel sauce instead of bacon.
FAQs
Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?
Yes! Store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
What if I don’t have bourbon?
Substitute with apple cider or extra vanilla extract.
Can I use store-bought frosting?
Of course! But homemade frosting tastes much better.
Conclusion
Maple bourbon cupcakes with bacon are the perfect balance of sweet, smoky, and indulgent flavors. They’re fun to make and even more fun to eat.
Try them out, share them with friends, and let me know how they turn out!