Bacon & Egg Doughnuts: A Savory Twist on a Classic Treat

Are you ready to redefine your doughnut experience? Forget the sprinkles and sugary glaze – we’re diving headfirst into a world of savory delight with these incredible Bacon & Egg Doughnuts! This isn’t your average breakfast pastry; it’s a flavor explosion that perfectly balances the salty, smoky bacon with the rich, creamy egg, all nestled inside a soft, pillowy doughnut. Whether you’re looking for a unique brunch item, a conversation-starting appetizer, or simply a way to satisfy your bacon cravings, these doughnuts are guaranteed to impress.

## Why Bacon & Egg Doughnuts?

Let’s face it: bacon and eggs are a breakfast staple for a reason. The combination is simply irresistible. By encasing these classic flavors in a doughnut, we’re elevating them to a whole new level of deliciousness. These doughnuts are:

* **Unexpected and Exciting:** They’re a delightful surprise for your taste buds.
* **Perfectly Balanced:** The sweetness of the doughnut complements the savory bacon and egg.
* **Versatile:** Serve them for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or even as a savory snack.
* **Impressive:** They’re guaranteed to be a conversation starter at any gathering.
* **Customizable:** Easily adapt the recipe to your own preferences and dietary needs.

## The Ultimate Bacon & Egg Doughnut Recipe

This recipe is designed to be easy to follow, even for beginner bakers. We’ll break down each step in detail, ensuring that you achieve doughnut perfection. Get ready to create a batch of these savory treats that will have everyone begging for more!

**Yields:** 12 doughnuts
**Prep time:** 45 minutes (including dough rising)
**Cook time:** 20 minutes

### Ingredients:

**For the Doughnuts:**

* 1 cup warm milk (about 105-115°F)
* 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
* 1/4 cup granulated sugar
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 2 large eggs
* 1/4 cup (4 tablespoons) unsalted butter, melted
* 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
* Vegetable oil, for frying

**For the Bacon & Egg Filling:**

* 1 pound bacon, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
* 8 large eggs
* 1/4 cup milk or cream
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives (optional)

**For the Glaze (Optional):**

* 1/2 cup mayonnaise
* 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
* 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup

### Equipment:

* Large mixing bowl
* Stand mixer (optional, but recommended)
* Measuring cups and spoons
* Baking sheet
* Parchment paper
* 3-inch doughnut cutter (or use a cookie cutter and a smaller cutter for the hole)
* Large pot or deep fryer
* Slotted spoon or spider
* Paper towels
* Whisk
* Frying pan

### Instructions:

**Part 1: Making the Doughnuts**

1. **Activate the Yeast:** In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the yeast is foamy. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to use.
2. **Combine Wet Ingredients:** Add the salt, eggs, and melted butter to the yeast mixture. Whisk until well combined.
3. **Add the Flour:** Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. If using a stand mixer, use the dough hook attachment and mix on low speed. If mixing by hand, use a wooden spoon or your hands.
4. **Knead the Dough:** Once the dough comes together, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 5-7 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, knead with the dough hook for about 5 minutes.
5. **First Rise:** Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat all sides. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
6. **Punch Down and Roll Out:** Gently punch down the dough to release the air. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and roll it out to about 1/2-inch thickness.
7. **Cut Out Doughnuts:** Use a 3-inch doughnut cutter to cut out doughnuts. Use a smaller cutter to cut out the center hole. Place the doughnuts and doughnut holes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. **Second Rise:** Cover the doughnuts with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until slightly puffy.

**Part 2: Making the Bacon & Egg Filling**

1. **Cook the Bacon:** In a large frying pan over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon from the pan and drain on paper towels, reserving about 2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the pan.
2. **Scramble the Eggs:** In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk or cream, salt, and pepper. Pour the egg mixture into the pan with the reserved bacon fat. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the eggs are set but still slightly moist. Remove from heat and stir in the cooked bacon and chives (if using).

**Part 3: Frying the Doughnuts**

1. **Heat the Oil:** In a large pot or deep fryer, heat about 3 inches of vegetable oil to 350-375°F (175-190°C). Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature.
2. **Fry the Doughnuts:** Carefully drop a few doughnuts into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for 1-2 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Use a slotted spoon or spider to remove the doughnuts from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain.
3. **Fry the Doughnut Holes:** Repeat the frying process with the doughnut holes until golden brown.

**Part 4: Assembling the Bacon & Egg Doughnuts**

1. **Cool the Doughnuts:** Let the doughnuts cool slightly before filling. This will prevent the filling from melting or becoming too runny.
2. **Create a Pocket:** Use a small knife or a piping bag to create a pocket in the side of each doughnut.
3. **Fill the Doughnuts:** Fill each doughnut with a generous amount of the bacon and egg mixture.

**Part 5: Glazing (Optional)**

1. **Prepare the Glaze:** In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and honey or maple syrup until smooth.
2. **Glaze the Doughnuts:** Dip the top of each filled doughnut into the glaze. Alternatively, you can drizzle the glaze over the doughnuts using a spoon.

**Part 6: Serving**

1. **Serve Immediately:** These Bacon & Egg Doughnuts are best served warm or at room temperature.
2. **Garnish (Optional):** Sprinkle some extra chopped chives or crumbled bacon on top for garnish.

## Tips for Doughnut Perfection

* **Use Fresh Yeast:** Ensure that your yeast is fresh and active for the best results. Check the expiration date and perform the proofing test (step 1) to confirm its viability.
* **Don’t Overcrowd the Pot:** When frying, avoid overcrowding the pot, as this can lower the oil temperature and result in greasy doughnuts.
* **Monitor the Oil Temperature:** Maintaining the correct oil temperature is crucial for achieving golden brown doughnuts. Use a thermometer to ensure accuracy.
* **Drain Well:** After frying, allow the doughnuts to drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
* **Adjust Sweetness:** If you prefer a sweeter glaze, increase the amount of honey or maple syrup. Conversely, reduce it if you prefer a more savory flavor.
* **Experiment with Flavors:** Feel free to add other ingredients to the bacon and egg filling, such as cheese, vegetables, or hot sauce.
* **Doughnut Holes Delight:** Don’t forget to fry the doughnut holes! These bite-sized treats are perfect for snacking.

## Variations and Adaptations

* **Vegetarian Option:** Replace the bacon with vegetarian bacon or other savory ingredients, such as sautéed mushrooms or spinach.
* **Gluten-Free Option:** Use a gluten-free flour blend to make gluten-free doughnuts. Be sure to choose a blend that is specifically designed for yeast doughs.
* **Dairy-Free Option:** Use dairy-free milk and butter substitutes to make dairy-free doughnuts.
* **Spicy Kick:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the bacon and egg filling for a spicy kick.
* **Cheese Lover’s Dream:** Mix in some shredded cheddar cheese, mozzarella, or Gruyère cheese into the egg mixture for an extra cheesy treat.

## Serving Suggestions

* **Brunch Buffet:** These doughnuts are a fantastic addition to a brunch buffet.
* **Appetizer Platter:** Cut the doughnuts into smaller pieces and serve them as a unique appetizer.
* **Breakfast on the Go:** They’re a convenient and delicious breakfast option for busy mornings.
* **Party Snack:** Surprise your guests with these savory doughnuts at your next party.
* **Gourmet Sandwich:** Slice the doughnut in half and use it as a bun for a gourmet breakfast sandwich.

## Storage Instructions

* **Room Temperature:** Store the filled doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They are best consumed fresh.
* **Refrigeration:** For longer storage, refrigerate the filled doughnuts in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
* **Freezing:** Freezing is not recommended for the filled doughnuts, as the filling may become watery upon thawing. However, you can freeze the unfrosted doughnuts for up to 2 months. Thaw completely before filling and glazing.

## Conclusion

These Bacon & Egg Doughnuts are a testament to the fact that doughnuts can be so much more than just a sweet treat. With their savory flavors and unexpected twist, they’re sure to become a new favorite in your household. So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will redefine your doughnut experience. Enjoy!