Smoky Maple Bacon Pancake Sliders

By Tyla | Last modified on Dec 25, 2025

Featured in: Breakfast

Imagine waking up to the irresistible aroma of smoky, crispy bacon embraced by fluffy, golden mini pancakes drizzled with decadent honey butter. These Smoky Maple Bacon Pancake Sliders effortlessly blend sweet maple notes and savory bacon goodness into bite-sized delights, perfect for making any breakfast or brunch an extraordinary occasion.

Created by renowned Chef Crenn, this recipe brings restaurant-level flair to your home kitchen with minimal fuss. Whether you’re treating family on a weekend morning or impressing guests at your next brunch, these sliders promise a balanced flavor profile packed into every comforting bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The perfect harmony of sweet maple syrup and smoky bacon flavor in convenient slider form.
Fluffy mini pancakes offer an ideal size for layering and easy serving at gatherings.
Quick to prepare with simple ingredients, yet impressive in taste and presentation.

Ingredients

High-quality pancake mix: Provides a reliable base for fluffy, tender pancakes with great texture and flavor.
Whole milk: Adds richness and moisture to the batter, improving pancake softness and taste.
Large egg: Acts as a binder while contributing to the structure and fluffiness of the pancakes.
Vanilla extract: Introduces a warm, aromatic hint that enhances the sweetness naturally.
Pure maple syrup: Offers authentic sweetness and deep maple flavor to the pancake batter.
Thick-cut bacon slices: Thickness delivers a satisfying crisp texture and robust smoky flavor.
Pure honey: Used in the buttery drizzle to perfectly complement the savoury bacon with natural sweetness.
Unsalted butter, softened: Creates rich, creamy texture in the honey butter glaze without overshadowing other flavors.
Fresh berries (optional): Provide a fresh, tart contrast and vibrant garnish to balance the richness.
Light whipped cream (optional): A fluffy, airy topping that adds indulgence without heaviness.

Instructions

Mix Pancake Batter: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the pancake mix, whole milk, large egg, vanilla extract, and pure maple syrup until a smooth batter forms. Resting the batter for 5 minutes allows the ingredients to meld and air bubbles to develop, resulting in lighter pancakes.
Cook Bacon to Crispy Perfection: Over medium heat, cook the thick-cut bacon slices in a large skillet for about 6-8 minutes per side until evenly crispy. This slow rendering of fat maximizes flavor and texture. Transfer them to paper towels to drain excess grease, then break into slider-sized portions.
Prepare Mini Pancakes: Heat a non-stick griddle or skillet over medium-low heat for even cooking. Pour small portions of the batter to form mini pancakes approximately 3 inches wide. Cook until bubbles appear and edges begin to set, about 2-3 minutes, then flip and cook another 1-2 minutes until golden brown. These bite-sized pancakes are perfect for creating layers.
Make Honey Butter Drizzle: In a small saucepan over low heat, gently melt the pure honey with the softened unsalted butter while whisking until fully combined. This warm glaze adds a luscious sheen and balances the smoky bacon with rich sweetness.
Assemble the Sliders: Layer one mini pancake on a serving plate, top with crispy bacon pieces, and cover with another mini pancake to form a slider. Generously drizzle the warm honey butter over each slider to enhance every bite’s flavor and richness. Serve immediately to enjoy optimal textures and warmth.

You Must Know

Use thick-cut bacon for superior texture and smoky flavor compared to thinner cuts.
Pure maple syrup lends an authentic flavor distinguishing this dish from those using artificial syrups.
Keep cooked pancakes warm in a 200°F oven while preparing other components to maintain softness.
Sliders are best served fresh; leftovers should be stored separately to preserve crispness and flavor.

Storage Tips

Store leftover bacon, pancakes, and honey butter separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat pancakes gently in a low oven and crisp bacon quickly in a skillet before assembling fresh sliders to maintain texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these sliders alongside fresh fruit or a seasonal berry compote for added brightness. A light dollop of whipped cream balances the rich flavors, while a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea completes the perfect breakfast experience.

Professional Tips

For lighter options, substitute turkey bacon while keeping thick-cut slices for best texture.
Gluten-free pancake mix works well to accommodate dietary restrictions without compromising flavor.
Use a non-stick skillet or griddle and moderate heat to avoid burning the delicate mini pancakes while achieving golden color.

FAQs

Can I prepare the batter in advance?: Yes, you can make the batter and refrigerate it for up to 12 hours but allow it to come to room temperature before cooking for best results.
What can I use instead of pure maple syrup in the batter?: While pure maple syrup provides authentic flavor, you can substitute with honey or agave syrup if necessary, though it will slightly alter taste.
Is it possible to bake the bacon instead of pan-frying?: Absolutely; baking in the oven at 400°F on a rack yields evenly cooked, crispy bacon and reduces stovetop mess.
Can these sliders be made vegan?: To make vegan sliders, use plant-based bacon alternatives, dairy-free milk, vegan butter, and egg replacements suitable for baking pancakes.
How do I keep the pancakes from getting soggy after assembly?: Serve sliders immediately after assembly or keep components separate and assemble just before serving to maintain texture and prevent sogginess.