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Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Hot Cross Buns with Shallots

crispy bacon-wrapped hot cross buns - featured image

A deliciously unique recipe combining soft, spiced hot cross buns wrapped in crispy bacon and topped with caramelized shallots, perfect for brunch or entertaining.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 large hot cross buns
  • 8 slices thick-cut bacon
  • 2 medium shallots, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped (optional)
  • Black pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon maple syrup (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place a wire rack on top if available.
  2. Briefly blanch the bacon slices in simmering water for about 1 minute to remove extra fat. Pat dry with paper towels.
  3. Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced shallots and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and starting to turn golden, about 8 minutes.
  4. Sprinkle brown sugar over the shallots and continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes until caramelized. Stir in fresh thyme and a pinch of black pepper. Remove from heat and set aside.
  5. Wrap each hot cross bun with two bacon slices, starting at the bottom and spiraling upward. Secure with toothpicks if needed.
  6. Place the bacon-wrapped buns on the wire rack to allow air circulation. If no rack is available, place directly on the parchment-lined baking sheet.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and browned. Rotate the baking sheet halfway through baking if needed.
  8. Remove from oven and spoon caramelized shallots generously over each bun. Drizzle with maple syrup if desired.
  9. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Blanching bacon removes excess fat and prevents greasy buns. Use a wire rack to keep bacon crispy. Caramelize shallots low and slow to avoid burning. Rotate baking sheet halfway for even crisping. Prepare shallots ahead and reheat gently if desired. For gluten-free, use gluten-free buns; for dairy-free, substitute butter with coconut oil or plant-based butter.

Nutrition

Keywords: bacon wrapped buns, hot cross buns, caramelized shallots, brunch recipe, savory sweet appetizer