There’s something undeniably delightful about the combination of fluffy donuts and crispy bacon, especially in the form of Delish Maple Bacon Donut Sticks. This indulgent treat perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors, creating a flavor explosion that leaves you wanting more. These donut sticks are a fun twist on traditional donuts, making them ideal for breakfast, brunch, or even a sweet snack. The addition of maple syrup not only enhances the sweetness but also brings an inviting warmth to every bite.

In our household, these donut sticks have become something of a beloved tradition, especially on lazy Sunday mornings. My husband and our little ones absolutely adore them, and it’s become our routine to whip them up together. The kids love to help dip the freshly fried donut sticks into the decadent maple glaze and sprinkle them with crispy bacon bits. I still remember the first time we made them—flour everywhere, laughter filling the kitchen, and the aroma of warm dough frying enveloping us like a cozy blanket. That day ignited a love for these treats that hasn’t waned, and now, whenever we make them, it’s a sweet reminder of those joyful moments spent together.

Why You’ll Love This Delish Maple Bacon Donut Sticks

These donut sticks are not just a treat; they are an experience. The combination of fluffy donut and crispy bacon creates a satisfying textural contrast. The maple glaze adds a lovely sweetness that complements the savory bacon perfectly. They are easy to make and are sure to impress anyone you share them with, making them perfect for celebrations or casual family gatherings. Plus, they bring a touch of whimsy to your breakfast table that everyone will appreciate.

Behind the Recipe

Making Delish Maple Bacon Donut Sticks at home has taught me that the process can be just as rewarding as the end result. The key is in the frying; getting the oil temperature just right can be tricky, but it’s essential for achieving that perfect golden exterior. I’ve found that letting the dough rest before frying makes them light and airy. My biggest tip is to maintain a watchful eye while frying—overcrowding the pan can drop the temperature, leading to less-than-crispy results. Trust me, a little patience goes a long way, and the joy of pulling out beautifully browned donut sticks is worth every minute.

Shopping Tips

When you’re gathering ingredients for your donut sticks, freshness is paramount, particularly for the bacon and eggs. Look for bacon that is thick-cut, as it offers a better texture and flavor in each bite. For the maple syrup, choose pure, real maple syrup over imitation for a richer taste. This subtle difference elevates your dish significantly. And don’t forget to check expiration dates on your baking powder—it should be fresh to ensure that the donut sticks rise beautifully.

Prep Ahead Ideas

To streamline your cooking process, you can prepare the dough the night before and refrigerate it. This not only saves time but also develops the flavor. Pre-measure your dry ingredients and keep them in an airtight container for easy access the next morning. For an even smoother experience, cook your bacon ahead of time and store it in the fridge, which allows you to focus completely on frying your donut sticks.

Time-Saving Tricks

One of the best shortcuts I’ve found is using a kitchen scale to quickly measure out ingredients. Having everything prepped and in place before you start cooking also speeds things up—this is known as ‘mise en place.’ If you’re short on time, consider using store-bought biscuit dough instead of making it from scratch, but know that homemade will always taste better. Allowing your fried donuts to rest for just a moment before glazing allows the flavor to settle, enhancing the overall experience.

Common Mistakes

A common pitfall when making these treats is undercooking the donuts; they should be golden brown on the outside and fluffy on the inside. Be mindful of the oil temperature—if it’s too hot, the outsides will burn before the insides are cooked. I once added too much maple syrup to the glaze, resulting in an overly sweet mixture. Balancing flavors is key here. If your glaze becomes too thick, simply add a splash of milk to loosen it back up.

What to Serve It With

These donut sticks pair wonderfully with a steaming cup of coffee or a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice for a delightful breakfast pairing. For a complete brunch experience, consider serving them alongside scrambled eggs and fresh fruit. The freshness of the fruit contrasts nicely with the richness of the donuts.

Tips & Mistakes

When serving these, make sure to have plenty of napkins on hand—they tend to be delightfully messy but oh-so-worth it. If you find that the bacon bits keep falling off, try securing them with a touch more glaze.

Storage Tips

Store in airtight containers in the fridge. It reheats beautifully, but if you sneak a bite cold straight from the container, it still works. Just pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to bring back that lovely warmth.

Variations and Substitutions

Feel free to experiment with different types of bacon, such as turkey bacon or even a vegetarian alternative. For a fun twist, try adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to your donut dough for an autumnal flavor. While maple syrup brings a distinct taste, you can interchange it with honey if you’re in a pinch, but know the flavor profile will change slightly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of syrup?

Absolutely! While maple syrup is traditional, other syrups like honey or agave will work too, though they’ll impart different flavors.

Is frying necessary, or can I bake these?

Frying gives the best texture, but you can bake them if desired. Just be sure to adjust the time and temperature accordingly for optimal results.

How can I make these healthier?

You can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour and reduce the sugar in the glaze. While they won’t taste quite the same, they’ll be a healthier option.

Can I freeze the donut sticks?

Yes! Just be sure to freeze them in a single layer before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be reheated in the oven or microwave.

What if I don’t like bacon?

You can completely skip the bacon, or even replace it with chocolate chips or nuts for a different flavor entirely.

Delish Maple Bacon Donut Sticks