Maple Bacon Twists are a fun treat that combines crispy bacon with a sweet maple glaze. Each twist is crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside—perfect for any occasion!
Who can resist bacon wrapped in sweetness? I love serving these at brunch, and they always disappear fast! Just be ready to share, because they are a hit! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: This is the star of the dish, giving that flaky, crispy texture. If you don’t have puff pastry, you can use phyllo dough, though it won’t be quite the same. Make sure for both, they are thawed well before use.
Bacon: I recommend using thinly sliced bacon for a crispier texture. Turkey bacon is a great alternative if you want a healthier option. Just keep in mind that it may not get as crispy as pork bacon.
Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup brings the best flavor. If you can’t find it, you can substitute with honey or agave syrup, but it changes the taste slightly. I always use the real deal for that rich flavor!
Powdered Sugar: This is optional for dusting to add a sweet finishing touch. If you’re looking to skip it, it’s still delicious on its own!
How to Get Perfect Twists Every Time?
Twisting the bacon and puff pastry is key for achieving the right look and taste. Here’s how to do it smoothly:
- Make sure the puff pastry is rolled out evenly. This prevents uneven cooking.
- Align the bacon slice carefully on the pastry strip. Start at one end and twist both the bacon and pastry together tightly but gently.
- Place the twists on the baking sheet with some space between, so they crisp evenly.
And don’t forget to brush them with syrup halfway through baking! This makes them extra sweet and glossy.
Maple Bacon Twists
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 10 slices bacon
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- Optional: powdered sugar for dusting
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to bake, totaling around 30-35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and tasty treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking. This makes clean-up easy too!
2. Roll Out the Puff Pastry:
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet into a rectangle, about 10×12 inches in size. This will be the base for your bacon twists.
3. Cut the Pastry:
Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the puff pastry into 10 equal strips. Make sure they are of similar width so they cook evenly.
4. Assemble the Twists:
Take one strip of puff pastry and lay it flat. Place a slice of bacon on top of the puff pastry strip. Starting at one end, gently twist the bacon and puff pastry together, making sure to twist evenly along the length. Repeat this process for all strips.
5. Place on the Baking Sheet:
Carefully place the twisted strips on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each to allow for expansion while baking.
6. Brush with Maple Syrup:
Generously brush the twists with maple syrup, coating them well for that sweet flavor. You can use a pastry brush for this to get an even layer.
7. Bake:
Put the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them to make sure the bacon turns crispy and the puff pastry turns a lovely golden brown.
8. Apply More Maple Syrup:
When the baking time reaches about 10 minutes, take the baking sheet out briefly, and brush the twists again with maple syrup for that beautiful, glossy finish. Then, return them to the oven to finish baking.
9. Cool and Serve:
Once they are golden and crispy, remove the pan from the oven and let the twists cool slightly on the pan. This helps them set without losing their shape.
10. Add the Finishing Touch:
If you’re feeling fancy, dust with powdered sugar right before serving for an extra touch of sweetness and presentation!
Now, enjoy your warm maple bacon twists as a delightful snack or a delicious appetizer at your next gathering! They’re sure to impress!
Can I Use Store-Bought Bacon for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Store-bought bacon works just fine. Be sure to choose a variety that you enjoy, whether it’s thick-cut or regular. Just remember that cooking times may vary slightly based on the thickness.
Can I Make These Twists in Advance?
You can prepare the twists ahead of time, but I recommend baking them fresh for the best texture. If you want to prep in advance, assemble the twists and store them in the refrigerator for up to a few hours before baking.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes to crisp them back up.
Can I Add Other Spices or Toppings?
Definitely! Feel free to sprinkle some black pepper, garlic powder, or paprika on the bacon before twisting for an extra flavor kick. You could also experiment with different toppings like chopped herbs after baking.
