These days, people wrap bacon around just about everything. From cookies to snack cakes, the trend continues—and these smoked bacon-wrapped honey buns are a standout. The combination of sweet, glazed honey buns with smoky, salty bacon creates a playful contrast that’s perfect for backyard gatherings or a memorable dessert at a cookout.
The bacon gives a savory crunch while the honey bun softens and becomes warm and gooey. A light sprinkling of BBQ seasoning and a kiss of smoke take these over the top. Serve them hot, optionally with a drizzle of honey or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and you’ll have a crowd-pleasing treat.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients before you begin. They’re easy to find and make assembly quick.
- 6 honey buns (jumbo or regular)
- 12 strips thick-cut bacon (about 1–2 strips per bun)
- BBQ seasoning or rub (light dusting)
- Toothpicks to secure the bacon, if needed
Preparation
- Wrap the buns: Wrap each honey bun tightly with one or two strips of bacon. Use toothpicks to hold the bacon in place if it slips.
- Season lightly: Sprinkle a light coating of your favorite BBQ seasoning over the top of each wrapped bun. A sweet-savory rub or a simple black pepper and brown sugar mix works well.
- Preheat the smoker: Heat your smoker to about 250°F. Applewood or cherry wood are excellent choices for a mild, complementary smoke flavor.
Smoking the Honey Buns
Place the bacon-wrapped honey buns on the smoker grate with some space between each so smoke and heat circulate evenly. Smoke at 250°F for up to 2 hours, checking periodically. The goal is crisp, browned bacon and a warm, slightly melted interior for the bun.
If the bacon isn’t crisping as much as you’d like, you can raise the heat briefly or move the buns closer to a direct-heat source for the last few minutes. Watch carefully so the bottoms of the buns don’t scorch.
Serving Suggestions
These smoked bacon-wrapped honey buns are best served hot from the smoker. For extra sweetness and shine, drizzle a little honey over the top just before serving. For a decadent dessert, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside—or even a small dollop on top so it slowly melts into the warm bun.
They also make a fun appetizer or snack at parties. Plate them on a platter with toothpicks for easy grabbing, and consider providing a small bowl of warmed caramel or chocolate sauce for dipping.
Tips for Success
- Choose quality bacon: Thick-cut bacon crisps nicely and provides a better texture contrast with the soft bun.
- Manage smoker temperature: Keep the smoker steady around 250°F so the bacon renders slowly and the bun heats through without burning.
- Experiment safely: Try different rubs—brown sugar and paprika, maple glaze, or a touch of cayenne—for variations in flavor. Test small batches until you find your favorite combo.
- Watch the bottoms: The sugary glaze on honey buns can caramelize and burn if exposed to too much direct heat. Use indirect heat or a tray if you notice charring.
- Alternative cooking: If you don’t have a smoker, you can bake these in an oven at 350°F for 20–25 minutes or until the bacon crisps. You’ll miss the smoky note but still get a delicious sweet-and-salty result.
Conclusion
Smoked bacon-wrapped honey buns are a playful and irresistible barbecue treat that blends sweet, salty, and smoky elements. They’re simple to assemble, adaptable to different seasonings and wood choices, and impressive to serve. Follow the steps above and you’ll have a memorable dish that guests will talk about long after the smoke clears.
FAQs
Can I use a regular oven instead of a smoker? Absolutely. Bake at 350°F for 20–25 minutes, or until the bacon is crisp. The smoky flavor won’t be present, but the combination of sweet and savory is still excellent.
How should I store leftovers? Place cooled buns in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. Reheat briefly in the oven (or microwave for convenience) until warmed through and the bacon is re-crisped.
Can I use other types of buns or sweets? Yes. Cinnamon rolls, sticky buns, or similar sweet rolls make great substitutes. Creative cooks have also wrapped other treats in bacon for a sweet-and-salty twist—use caution with very delicate items to avoid overcooking.