There’s a certain joy in transforming a classic breakfast into something extraordinary, especially when it involves bourbon, maple, and crispy bacon. I discovered this Bourbon Maple Bacon Stuffed French Toast while hosting a cozy brunch for friends, and the moment the warm, rich aroma filled the kitchen, I knew we had a winner. Imagine thick, fluffy brioche bread enveloping a creamy bacon-cream cheese filling, all lovingly smothered in a homemade maple glaze infused with a hint of bourbon—it’s a delightful blend of sweet and savory that feels indulgent yet comforting.
Whether you’re planning a leisurely Sunday brunch or looking for a way to impress guests on a special occasion, this recipe delivers both flavor and flair. It’s surprisingly simple to whip up, making it perfect for those who are tired of fast food breakfasts but craving something exciting. Get ready to elevate your morning routine with this mouthwatering dish that promises to be the highlight of your brunch table!
Why love bourbon maple bacon stuffed french toast?
Irresistible combination: The mix of creamy cheese and crispy bacon inside soft brioche takes breakfast to new heights.
Decadent glaze: A warm bourbon-maple syrup drizzled over adds a sweet finish that’s pure heaven.
Impressive yet simple: You can serve gourmet-style brunch without spending hours in the kitchen.
Versatile dish: Adapt fillings or toppings to suit various tastes—everyone will find their favorite version!
Weekend delight: Perfect for leisurely gatherings, this recipe brings joy to breakfast enthusiasts.
Bourbon Maple Bacon Stuffed French Toast Ingredients
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For the Bread
• Thick Slices Brioche or Challah Bread – Provides richness and absorbs the custard well. Substitution: Use any soft bread; challah works beautifully for its texture. -
For the Filling
• Thick-Cut Bacon – Adds a smoky flavor and crunchy texture. Substitution: Turkey bacon can be used for a lighter option.
• Cream Cheese (softened) – Provides a rich and tangy filling. Notes: Can be replaced with mascarpone for a sweeter flavor. -
For the Custard
• Large Eggs – Essential for creating the custard mixture. Substitution: Flax eggs for a vegan alternative (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water per egg).
• Whole Milk – Creates a creamy texture in the custard. Substitution: Use oat milk for a dairy-free option.
• Vanilla Extract – Adds depth of flavor. Substitution: Use almond extract for a different flavor profile.
• Cinnamon – Enhances the sweetness of the dish. Notes: Adjust amount based on personal preference. -
For Cooking
• Butter – Used for cooking to prevent sticking and enhance flavor. Notes: Olive oil can be a healthier substitute in cooking.
• Pinch of Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor. -
For the Glaze
• Pure Maple Syrup – Sweetens the glaze with a distinct flavor. Notes: Avoid imitation syrup for best taste.
• Bourbon – Infuses the glaze with warmth and depth. Substitution: Apple cider for a non-alcoholic option.
How to Make Bourbon Maple Bacon Stuffed French Toast
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Cook Bacon: Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a wire rack with foil. Bake the thick-cut bacon for about 15 minutes until crispy. Drain on paper towels and chop into small pieces.
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Prepare Custard: In a shallow dish, whisk together the large eggs, whole milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until well combined and smooth.
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Make Filling: In a mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese with the chopped bacon until fully incorporated for a delicious stuffing.
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Stuff Bread: Take each thick slice of brioche bread and cut a pocket in the side. Gently fill each pocket with the creamy bacon-cream cheese mixture.
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Dip Bread: Carefully dip each stuffed slice into the egg mixture, ensuring both sides are evenly coated and soaked for a few seconds.
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Cook French Toast: In a skillet over medium heat, melt some butter. Place the stuffed and soaked slices in the skillet, cooking for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
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Make Glaze: In a saucepan, combine pure maple syrup, bourbon, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a light simmer and let it cook for about 2 minutes to thicken slightly.
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Serve: Drizzle the warm bourbon-maple glaze generously over the cooked French toast and serve immediately for the best experience.
Optional: Top with fresh fruit or whipped cream for an extra special touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Bourbon Maple Bacon Stuffed French Toast
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Fridge: Store any leftover bourbon maple bacon stuffed French toast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
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Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the stuffed French toast in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to airtight freezer bags. They can be stored for up to 2 months.
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Reheating: To reheat, avoid the microwave, as it can make the bread rubbery. Instead, warm the French toast in an oven preheated to 325°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
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Thawing: If frozen, thaw the bourbon maple bacon stuffed French toast in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for best results.
What to Serve with Bourbon Maple Bacon Stuffed French Toast?
Enhancing your brunch experience is as easy as pairing this delicious dish with complementary sides and drinks!
- Fresh Berries: Their natural sweetness and acidity balance the rich flavors of the French toast, offering a refreshing contrast. A colorful berry medley adds both visual appeal and a burst of freshness to the plate.
- Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with a zesty vinaigrette cuts through the indulgence, creating a delightful balance. The crisp greens provide a refreshing crunch that brightens each bite of the stuffed French toast.
- Crispy Hash Browns: The crunchy exterior and fluffy interior pair perfectly, adding a delightful texture to your brunch spread. Serve them alongside for that classic breakfast feel everyone loves.
- Maple-Infused Coffee: For a real treat, brew a cup of coffee with a hint of maple syrup to echo the flavors in your French toast. This cozy drink enhances the overall experience, warming your heart with every sip.
- Mimosas: This classic brunch cocktail adds a festive touch with its bubbly nature and citrusy brightness. The combination of sparkling wine and fresh orange juice offers a light refreshment that complements the dish beautifully.
- Creamy Yogurt Parfait: A yogurt parfait layered with granola and fruits gives a creamy, crunchy addition to the table. The yogurt adds a tangy note that perfectly contrasts the sweetness of the Bourbon Maple Bacon Stuffed French Toast.
Bacon Stuffed French Toast Variations
Feel free to get creative with your bourbon maple bacon stuffed French toast for a personalized touch that delights the senses!
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Bread Switch: Use sourdough or croissants for an upscale twist; each brings a unique flavor and texture that elevates this dish.
A buttery croissant adds an airy lightness, while hearty sourdough introduces a tang that delights. -
Healthier Option: Try turkey bacon for a lighter alternative; it still offers that satisfying crunch without the extra calories.
This swap allows you to enjoy the savory goodness while keeping it on the lighter side, perfect for everyday indulgence! -
Vegan Delight: Substitute with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water per egg) and oat milk for a vegan-friendly custard.
Everyone deserves a delicious breakfast, and this combination ensures that plant-based eaters won’t miss out on the fun! -
Flavor Boost: Add a teaspoon of almond extract in place of vanilla for a unique twist that introduces nutty undertones to the filling.
Almond extract beautifully complements both the glaze and the cream cheese filling, creating a harmonious flavor boost. -
Fruity Surprise: Layer in fresh fruit like sliced strawberries or blueberries with the cream cheese for a sweet burst in every bite.
This twist not only adds color but also brings a refreshing contrast to the richness of the bacon and cream filling. -
Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped pecans or walnuts into the cream cheese mixture for an added crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
The nuts enhance the creamy filling, providing a delightful surprise with every bite for those craving an extra element. -
Cinnamon Spice: Enhance the custard with pumpkin spice for a seasonal spin, bringing warm fall flavors right into your brunch table.
This seasonal variation transforms your French toast into a cozy treat that’s perfect for chilly mornings! -
Kid-Friendly Twist: For a non-alcoholic glaze, replace bourbon with more maple syrup or a splash of apple cider to please younger palates.
This ensures that even the littlest brunch enthusiasts get to enjoy a delightful breakfast without the fuss!
Make Ahead Options
Preparing Bourbon Maple Bacon Stuffed French Toast ahead of time is a fantastic way to save time and simplify your brunch plans! You can cook the bacon and prepare the bourbon-maple glaze up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Store the bacon in an airtight container in the refrigerator and keep the glaze in a sealed jar. The day you plan to serve, stuff the bread and dip it in the custard mixture right before cooking for optimal freshness, ensuring each slice is just as delicious. By following these make-ahead tips, you’ll have a delightful breakfast ready to impress with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Bourbon Maple Bacon Stuffed French Toast
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Bacon Crispiness: Bake the thick-cut bacon until extra crispy. This adds a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creaminess of the filling.
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Soak Time: Allow the stuffed bread to soak in the custard mixture for at least 10 minutes. This ensures every bite of your bourbon maple bacon stuffed French toast is packed with flavor!
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Temperature Matters: Keep your skillet at medium heat to prevent burning. If the skillet is too hot, the outside will brown too quickly, leaving the inside uncooked.
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Glaze Consistency: If your bourbon-maple glaze is too thin, let it simmer a little longer to thicken—this will create a luscious drizzle that enhances the dish.
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Serving Fresh: The best experience is to serve this dish immediately after cooking. However, if you need to make ahead, just ensure to reheat in an oven to keep the crispiness!
Bourbon Maple Bacon Stuffed French Toast Recipe FAQs
What type of bread works best for bourbon maple bacon stuffed French toast?
I recommend using thick slices of brioche or challah bread, as they provide richness and absorb the custard mixture beautifully. If you don’t have brioche on hand, any soft bread will do in a pinch!
How should I store leftovers of bourbon maple bacon stuffed French toast?
Store any leftover slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To prevent sticking, place parchment paper between layers. This keeps your delicious breakfast ready to enjoy again!
Can I freeze bourbon maple bacon stuffed French toast?
Absolutely! For the best results, freeze the stuffed slices in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm. Then, transfer them to airtight freezer bags. They can be stored for up to 2 months, making them a great make-ahead option!
What’s the best way to reheat bourbon maple bacon stuffed French toast?
To reheat, avoid the microwave as it can make the bread rubbery. Instead, warm the stuffed French toast in an oven preheated to 325°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. This method retains the crispiness!
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Yes! You can easily adapt this recipe for dietary needs. Use turkey bacon for a lighter option, or substitute flax eggs with 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg for a vegan alternative. Oat milk can replace whole milk for a dairy-free version. Always be mindful of allergies, particularly with cream cheese and nuts if included in variations.
How do I know if my bacon is cooked properly?
Cook your bacon until it is extra crispy. I recommend baking it in the oven at 400°F for about 15 minutes. It should be golden and crunchy, which provides a delightful contrast to the creamy filling in your bourbon maple bacon stuffed French toast!
Bourbon Maple Bacon Stuffed French Toast for Ultimate Brunch Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a wire rack with foil. Bake the thick-cut bacon for about 15 minutes until crispy. Drain on paper towels and chop into small pieces.
- In a shallow dish, whisk together the large eggs, whole milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until well combined and smooth.
- In a mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese with the chopped bacon until fully incorporated for a delicious stuffing.
- Take each thick slice of brioche bread and cut a pocket in the side. Gently fill each pocket with the creamy bacon-cream cheese mixture.
- Carefully dip each stuffed slice into the egg mixture, ensuring both sides are evenly coated and soaked for a few seconds.
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt some butter. Place the stuffed and soaked slices in the skillet, cooking for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
- In a saucepan, combine pure maple syrup, bourbon, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a light simmer and let it cook for about 2 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Drizzle the warm bourbon-maple glaze generously over the cooked French toast and serve immediately for the best experience.