Maple Bacon Bourbon Brownies are a decadent twist on traditional brownies, combining rich chocolate, smoky bacon, and a touch of bourbon with the sweetness of maple syrup. These brownies are perfect for those who enjoy bold flavors and a touch of indulgence.
Ingredients:
For the Brownies:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
- 1/4 cup bourbon
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
For the Maple Bacon Topping:
- 6 strips of bacon
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
Instructions:
Prepare the Maple Bacon Topping:
- Cook Bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove from the skillet and place on paper towels to drain. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces.
- Glaze Bacon: In the same skillet, pour in the maple syrup and brown sugar. Stir and cook until the sugar has dissolved and the syrup is slightly thickened. Return the crumbled bacon to the skillet and toss to coat. Set aside.
Prepare the Brownies:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- Melt Butter: In a large saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Remove from heat and stir in the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and bourbon until well combined.
- Add Eggs: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in the walnuts if using.
- Add Maple Syrup: Stir in the pure maple syrup until evenly distributed.
- Bake: Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
- Add Topping: Evenly sprinkle the maple bacon topping over the brownie batter.
- Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. The brownies should be set but still slightly fudgy.
- Cool: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before cutting into squares.
Serve:
- Slice and Serve: Once cooled, cut the brownies into squares and serve. Enjoy with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee for an indulgent treat!
Tips for Perfect Brownies:
- Avoid Overmixing: Mix the batter just until combined to ensure a fudgy texture.
- Cool Completely: Let the brownies cool completely before cutting to ensure clean slices.
- Bacon Texture: For a crispier topping, cook the bacon until extra crispy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Bold Flavor Combination: The sweet maple syrup, smoky bacon, and rich bourbon create a unique and indulgent flavor profile.
- Decadent Treat: These brownies are rich and fudgy, perfect for special occasions or a decadent dessert.
- Impressive Presentation: The maple bacon topping adds a gourmet touch and an impressive presentation.
Enjoy making and savoring these Maple Bacon Bourbon Brownies—an irresistible blend of flavors and textures!