Pin Sweet salty and utterly decadent these maple bacon chocolate chip cookies bring together crispy bacon rich chocolate chips and pure maple syrup all in one unforgettable bite. They are my go-to when I want something surprising for bake sales or a wow:dessert that feels both nostalgic and new.
When I first made these for a family movie night everyone immediately asked for the recipe. Now I bring them to every holiday get:together and there are never any leftovers.
Ingredients
- Thick:cut bacon: gives the ideal bite and holds up to baking go for uncured if you find it and check for meaty slices
- Pure maple syrup: brings natural sweetness and gorgeous flavor avoid pancake syrup for best taste
- Unsalted butter: ensures you control the saltiness use good quality for richer cookies
- Brown sugar: helps with chewiness and adds a caramel note pick fresh moist brown sugar
- Granulated sugar: balances the cookie and keeps edges crisp
- Two large eggs: bind everything and give structure fresh is key
- Vanilla extract: adds warmth and depth pure vanilla is a must here
- All:purpose flour: supplies tender crumb fresh flour means better texture
- Baking soda and baking powder: help the cookies rise just slightly and get that classic tender edge
- Salt: sharpens the flavors try sea salt for heightened effect
- Semi:sweet chocolate chips: give melty richness look for good quality with fewer additives
- Prepared maple bacon chopped: so you get a bit in every bite
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Pans:
- Set oven to 350 Fahrenheit or 175 Celsius and line two baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup and perfect bottoms
- Bake the Bacon:
- Arrange bacon slices on a wire rack over a baking sheet and brush both sides with maple syrup then bake flipping halfway for about 18 to 20 minutes until extra crispy let cool completely before chopping into small pieces for even distribution
- Cream the Wet Ingredients:
- In a large bowl use an electric mixer or a strong arm to blend softened butter with brown sugar and granulated sugar until everything looks light and fluffy this step takes about 3 minutes and ensures a creamy base
- Mix in Eggs and Maple:
- Add the maple syrup eggs and vanilla to the butter mixture beat until fully knitted together and smooth this is where that lovely maple aroma builds
- Combine the Dry Ingredients:
- In a new bowl whisk all:purpose flour baking soda baking powder and salt so rising agents disperse evenly and the cookies bake up perfectly
- Blend Wet and Dry Mixtures:
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet ingredients mixing just until all flour disappears no overmixing or you risk tough cookies
- Add Chocolate and Bacon:
- Fold in chocolate chips and cooled chopped maple bacon so you get a mix in every mouthful
- Scoop and Bake:
- Drop tablespoon:sized dollops onto parchment:lined sheets leaving about two inches between these cookies spread a bit as they bake
- Oven Magic:
- Bake for 12 to 15 minutes look for golden edges and a just:set center which means an ultra:gooey middle let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for five minutes so they firm up without drying out then move to a wire rack to cool completely
Pin My favorite part is biting into the warm bits of bacon because it reminds me of lazy weekend breakfasts growing up when we would sneak pieces from the pan before anyone else noticed.
Storage Tips
Once cooled keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days place a slice of bread in with them to keep soft. For longer shelf life freeze in single layers between wax paper these cookies defrost beautifully overnight on the counter. Avoid storing uncovered or in the fridge as that can dry them out.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap turkey bacon in if you want a lighter profile or skip it entirely for a vegetarian twist. Maple syrup should be pure for best flavor but in a pinch honey works though that will bring a new taste profile. Regular chocolate chips can be traded for dark chocolate chunks or even white if you want extra sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are outrageously good with ice cold milk but just as delightful paired with strong black coffee. Try making ice cream sandwiches using two cookies and a scoop of vanilla or coffee ice cream. For a party platter stack with simple shortbread and brownies for a sweet:salty surprise.
Cultural and Historical Context
Bacon in desserts started as a gourmet trend and quickly became a staple for home bakers here in the States. Chocolate chip cookies themselves were created by accident in the 1930s and have inspired countless creative riffs like this one. Maple syrup features heavily in northern American baking thanks to its unique flavor and deep culinary traditions.
Seasonal Adaptations
Use candy bacon for winter holidays and sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon in the batter. In summer try chilling the dough overnight for chewier cookies that stand up to the heat. During spring brunches these cookies pair beautifully with fresh fruit and yogurt.
Pin No matter the season these maple bacon chocolate chip cookies bring smiles to every gathering and always taste like a special occasion. Trust me when I say one batch is never enough.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I substitute regular bacon?
Thick-cut bacon works best for texture, but regular bacon can be used—just watch the baking time so it stays crispy.
- → Is maple syrup essential for flavor?
Maple syrup adds a unique sweetness and depth. While honey could work in a pinch, true flavor comes from maple.
- → How do I make these vegetarian?
Omit bacon or use a plant-based alternative for a vegetarian-friendly version. Flavor will shift slightly but remains tasty.
- → How should I store these cookies?
Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. You can refrigerate for longer freshness.
- → Can the dough be made ahead?
Yes, prepare the dough and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Let it sit at room temperature until pliable before baking.
- → What pairs well with these cookies?
Enjoy with a cold glass of milk, bold hot coffee, or espresso for a balanced sweet and savory snack experience.