Go Back

Maple Bacon Cupcakes

Sweet, smoky, and irresistibly moist — these Maple Bacon Cupcakes are the ultimate sweet-meets-savory treat. With rich maple flavor and bits of crispy candied bacon folded into a fluffy vanilla cake base, they bring brunch comfort to dessert form. Perfect for fall gatherings, breakfast-themed parties, or anytime you crave something indulgent and unexpected.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings 12

Ingredients
  

  • 1 box yellow cake mix
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/3 cup dry vanilla pudding mix
  • 1 cup water
  • 1/3 cup vegetable oil
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 teaspoon maple extract
  • 4 large eggs
  • 8 strips candied turkey bacon diced

Instructions
 

Preheat & Prepare:

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.

Mix the Batter:

  • In a large bowl, combine cake mix, flour, and pudding mix. Whisk to blend.
  • Add water, oil, mayonnaise, maple extract, and eggs. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes until smooth and creamy.

Add the Bacon:

  • Fold in diced candied turkey bacon until evenly distributed through the batter.

Fill the Liners:

  • Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full.

Bake:

  • Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool:

  • Let cupcakes cool completely on a wire rack before frosting or serving.

Optional Topping:

  • Frost with maple buttercream or drizzle warm maple syrup. Add a small bacon crumble or mini bacon strip on top for presentation.

Notes

  • Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm autumn flavor.
  • Make Ahead: Bake the cupcakes a day early and store them in an airtight container. Add frosting or maple drizzle just before serving.
  • Storage: Keep leftovers refrigerated for up to 3 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.
  • Frosting Idea: Maple cream cheese frosting complements the flavors beautifully.