Save Soft, chewy cookies featuring warming chai spices, sweet maple syrup, and crisp bacon for a uniquely irresistible treat.
The first time I baked these chai maple bacon drop cookies for my family, the aroma filled the kitchen and everyone couldn't wait to try them. Watching the smiles after the first bite made this recipe a new favorite in our home.
Ingredients
- Bacon: 6 slices thick-cut bacon
- All-purpose flour: 2 cups (250 g)
- Baking soda: 1 tsp
- Baking powder: 1/2 tsp
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Ground cinnamon: 1 1/2 tsp
- Ground ginger: 1/2 tsp
- Ground cardamom: 1/2 tsp
- Ground cloves: 1/4 tsp
- Ground nutmeg: 1/4 tsp
- Ground black pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Unsalted butter: 1/2 cup (115 g), softened
- Granulated sugar: 1/2 cup (100 g)
- Packed brown sugar: 1/2 cup (110 g)
- Pure maple syrup: 1/4 cup (60 ml)
- Large eggs: 2
- Vanilla extract: 1 tsp
Instructions
- Prep Oven and Sheets:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Cook Bacon:
- Cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crisp. Drain, cool, and chop finely. Set aside.
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, cloves, nutmeg, and black pepper.
- Cream Butter and Sugars:
- In a large bowl, beat butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
- Add Liquids:
- Add maple syrup, eggs, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, beating well after each addition.
- Mix Batter:
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Fold in Bacon:
- Fold in the chopped bacon.
- Portion Cookies:
- Drop tablespoon-sized scoops of dough onto prepared baking sheets, spacing about 2 inches apart.
- Bake:
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until edges are golden and centers are just set.
- Cool:
- Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Save Whenever these cookies come out of the oven, my family gathers around the kitchen island just in time for warm, chewy bites. They love the unexpected hint of spice and the crunch of bacon in every mouthful.
Required Tools
Skillet, mixing bowls, electric mixer or whisk, baking sheets, parchment paper, wire rack
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten), eggs, milk (butter), and pork (bacon, unless substituted)
Nutritional Information
Each cookie provides approximately 130 calories, 6 g total fat, 17 g carbohydrates, and 2 g protein
Save Enjoy these cookies with a cup of chai tea or strong coffee for the ultimate treat. Surprise your loved ones with this unique flavor combination.
Recipe FAQs
- → What gives these cookies their unique flavor?
Chai spices like cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and cloves combine with pure maple syrup and crisp bacon for distinct sweetness and bold, savory notes.
- → Can I substitute turkey bacon?
Yes, turkey bacon may be used. It maintains the texture and savory element while offering an alternative to pork.
- → How do I enhance the chai flavor?
Adding extra ground allspice or a pinch of white pepper increases the spiced profile, making the cookies even more aromatic.
- → What’s the best way to serve these cookies?
Try pairing them with chai tea or strong coffee. Drizzle with maple syrup or a light glaze for added sweetness.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- → Are these cookies suitable for vegetarians?
No, these cookies contain pork bacon. Substitute with vegetarian or turkey bacon for a meatless option.