Maple Bacon Cookies

Step 1

Personally, I like to cook my bacon in the oven for ease. Lay bacon on a rack placed over a rimmed cookie sheet. Place in preheated 375°F oven for 15-20 minutes until the bacon is cooked. Remove from the oven and let cool. Drain and reserve grease for cookies.

Step 2

Cream together butter, bacon grease, and sugars until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.

Step 3

Add eggs, one at a time, followed by vanilla and maple extracts. Mix to incorporate.

Step 4

Add flour, salt, and baking soda. Mix until no dry ingredients remain.

Step 5

Add bacon, chocolate chips, and caramel bits. If not using a heavy-duty stand mixer, it may be best to fold these in by hand.

Step 6

Drop cookie dough (approximately 2 tablespoons in size) on a baking sheet and bake in preheated 350°F oven for 12-15 minutes until the edges are golden and just set.

Step 7

Remove from oven and let cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes. Then transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely.