Okay, friends, gather ’round because I’ve got something truly special for you today. You know those moments when a craving hits, and it’s not just any craving, but a deep, primal need for something salty, crispy, and utterly irresistible? Yeah, that’s where these air fryer bacon twists come in. I swear, I discovered these by accident one lazy Sunday afternoon, and now? Well, let’s just say they’ve become a weekly, sometimes bi-weekly, staple in my kitchen. They’re like the ultimate appetizer, a game-day MVP, and honestly, just a magical little bite that makes everything a little bit better. Forget those store-bought snacks that taste like… well, nothing. These are the real deal, and they’re so ridiculously easy to make, you’ll wonder why you haven’t been doing this forever. They’re in a league of their own, but if I had to compare, think of them as a more elegant, infinitely more delicious cousin to a pigs-in-a-blanket, but with that incredible, savory punch of bacon. Get ready to be obsessed!

What are air fryers?

So, what exactly are these magical little things I’m raving about? Simply put, air fryer bacon twists are strips of delicious dough that are wrapped around a piece of bacon, then twisted into a charming little spiral before being air-fried to golden perfection. Think of it as a sweet, fluffy bread wrapped around the salty, smoky goodness of bacon, all cooked up in that magical air fryer that gives everything the best crispy texture. It’s the perfect marriage of sweet and savory, soft and crunchy, all in one bite. The name really says it all – they’re bacon, they’re twisted, and they’re made in the air fryer. It’s a no-fuss way to get that amazing flavor combination without a lot of fuss. Honestly, it’s the kind of snack that makes people ask, “Where did you get these?!” and then gasp when you tell them you made them yourself. They’re essentially little flavor bombs that are incredibly addictive!

Why you’ll love this recipe?

Why do I love bacon twists?flavor is just out of this world. That salty, smoky bacon cutting through the slightly sweet, tender dough is a combination that dreams are made of. It’s balanced, it’s satisfying, and it hits all the right notes. Then there’s the simplicity. Seriously, this recipe is a lifesaver on busy nights or when unexpected guests pop over. You can have these whipped up and ready to impress in under 30 minutes, thanks to the magic of the air fryer. They’re shockingly budget-friendly too; you’re likely to have most of the ingredients on hand already. And the versatility! This is what really sets them apart. While they are divine on their own, they’re also incredible for so many occasions. I’ve served them at game days, holiday parties, and even just as a special treat for my family on a random Tuesday. They’re so much better than anything you can buy pre-made. What I love most about these is that they deliver that gourmet-ish feel without any of the stress. They’re one of those recipes that makes you feel like a kitchen rockstar, even if you’re just starting out. If you’re a fan of my other quick appetizers like my ‘Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Breadsticks’ or even my ‘Easy Cheesy Garlic Rolls,’ you’re going to adore these. They bring that same comforting, delicious vibe but with an added layer of irresistible bacon goodness.

How do you make air fry bacon twists?

Quick Overview

This recipe is all about speed and flavor. We’re talking about quickly mixing up a simple dough, wrapping it around some delicious bacon, giving it a fun twist, and then letting the air fryer work its magic. The result is a batch of perfectly crispy, golden-brown twists that are incredibly addictive. It’s a straightforward process, and the air fryer does most of the heavy lifting, ensuring a beautifully cooked treat every single time. You’ll be amazed at how simple it is to achieve such fantastic results!

Ingredients

For the Dough:
1.5 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting. I always use unbleached all-purpose flour for a better texture. You can try a bread flour too, it makes them a little chewier!

1 teaspoon baking powder. Make sure it’s fresh! Old baking powder can lead to flat twists.

1/2 teaspoon salt. Just regular table salt is perfect here.

1 tablespoon granulated sugar. This adds just a hint of sweetness to balance the bacon.

3/4 cup milk, whole or 2%. I’ve even tested this with almond milk and it actually made it even creamier! Just make sure it’s not skim, it can make the dough a little less tender.

2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter. Let it cool slightly so it doesn’t cook the eggs prematurely if you add them (though this recipe doesn’t need them!).

For the Filling:
8-10 slices of good quality bacon, cut in half crosswise. I find a medium-cut bacon works best. Thick-cut can be a bit too much, and thin-cut can get too crispy and break. We want that perfect balance!

For the Glaze (Optional but Highly Recommended!):
2 tablespoons melted butter.

1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup. This is where you get that extra little touch of sweetness that makes them irresistible.

Pinch of smoked paprika (optional, for a little extra smoky depth).

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan

First things first, get that air fryer preheating! You want it at 375°F (190°C). While that’s heating up, lightly grease your air fryer basket or line it with parchment paper specifically designed for air fryers. This prevents any sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Make sure not to overcrowd the basket; you’ll likely need to do this in batches.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Give it a good whisk to ensure everything is evenly distributed. You want to make sure the leavening agent (baking powder) and salt are well mixed throughout the flour so you don’t get pockets of saltiness or flatness.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate, smaller bowl or liquid measuring cup, whisk together the milk and the melted butter. Just a quick whisk to combine them. Make sure your butter isn’t piping hot, just melted and slightly cooled.

Step 4: Combine

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir with a spoon or spatula until just combined. Don’t overmix! Overmixing can lead to tough twists. You want a soft, slightly sticky dough. If it seems too wet, add a tablespoon of flour at a time. If it seems too dry, add a tablespoon of milk. It should be pliable enough to work with.

Step 5: Prepare Filling

Lay out your cut bacon strips. This step is pretty straightforward – you’ve already cut your bacon in half crosswise. You’re essentially preparing your bacon ‘logs’ to be wrapped.

Step 6: Layer & Swirl

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently pat or roll the dough into a rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick. It doesn’t need to be perfect! Now, lay your bacon half-strips across the dough rectangle, spaced a few inches apart. Cut the dough between the bacon strips, creating individual portions. Take a piece of dough and wrap it around each bacon half, stretching it slightly to cover the bacon completely. Pinch the ends to seal. Then, gently twist each bacon-wrapped dough piece a few times to create that signature twisted look. This part is fun and where you can get creative!

Step 7: Bake

Carefully place the twisted bacon pieces into your preheated air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they don’t touch. You’ll probably need to cook them in batches. Air fry for 8-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through. Cooking time can vary depending on your air fryer model and the thickness of your bacon. You’re looking for them to be golden brown and for the bacon inside to be cooked through and crispy. I usually check around the 8-minute mark and go from there.

Step 8: Cool & Glaze

Once they’re done, carefully remove the twists from the air fryer. While they’re still warm, brush them with the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter and honey (or maple syrup). If you’re using the smoked paprika, stir that in too. This glaze adds a beautiful sheen and a touch more sweetness that perfectly complements the bacon. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving; they’ll be quite hot!

Step 9: Slice & Serve

These are best served warm! If you’re feeling fancy, you can sprinkle a little extra flaky sea salt on top after glazing. They’re perfect for picking up and eating whole. I usually just arrange them on a platter, and they disappear in minutes!

What to Serve It With

These air fryer bacon twists are so versatile, they fit in anywhere! For a quick and satisfying breakfast, I love pairing them with a strong cup of coffee or a glass of fresh orange juice. They make a fantastic addition to a breakfast board, alongside some scrambled eggs and fresh fruit. When it’s time for brunch, these twists add a touch of elegance. Serve them alongside a mimosa or a bloody mary, and perhaps some avocado toast or a simple green salad. They look so pretty on a platter! As a delightful dessert, imagine these with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a dusting of powdered sugar. They’re surprisingly wonderful after dinner, especially when you’re craving something sweet but don’t want a heavy cake. And for those impromptu cozy snack moments, they are absolute perfection. I love just grabbing one (or two!) with a cold glass of milk on a rainy afternoon. My family tradition is to make a big batch when we’re having a movie night. They’re the ultimate comfort food snack. Honestly, any time you need a little something delicious and a bit special, these twists are the answer!

Top Tips for Perfecting Your Air Fryer Bacon Twists

I’ve made these air fryer bacon twists more times than I can count, and over the years, I’ve picked up a few tricks that really make a difference. For the dough, the key is to avoid overmixing. Seriously, just stir until it comes together into a shaggy dough. Overworking gluten makes things tough, and we want tender twists! You’ll know you’re there when there are no dry flour spots left. When you’re layering and swirling, don’t worry about perfection. Rustic is good! The twisted shape is charming, and the bacon peeking out a little is part of the fun. Just ensure the dough is wrapped securely around the bacon to prevent it from unraveling too much during cooking. For the bacon itself, using a medium-cut bacon is usually best. Too thick and it might not cook all the way through in the time it takes the dough to bake, and too thin can get overly crispy and break apart. I learned this lesson the hard way after a batch of too-crispy bacon twists! When it comes to air frying, remember that every air fryer is a little different. My first batch might cook faster or slower than yours. It’s always best to check around the 8-minute mark and then continue cooking in 1-2 minute increments until they’re perfectly golden and the bacon is cooked. Don’t overcrowd the basket! Giving them space allows the hot air to circulate, ensuring even cooking and that lovely crispiness. If you’re experimenting with glaze variations, a little sprinkle of chili flakes can add a nice kick, or a touch of cinnamon can lean into a sweeter profile. For the glaze consistency, I like it thin enough to brush easily but thick enough not to completely run off. If it’s too thick, just warm it slightly with a tiny bit more butter. And a final tip: If you’re making these for a crowd, you can prep the dough and cut the bacon ahead of time, then assemble and twist them right before air frying. They’re best fresh, but they’ll still be delicious a little while after they come out of the air fryer!

Storing and Reheating Tips

Okay, so these air fryer bacon twists are honestly best eaten right away, still warm and fresh from the air fryer. That’s when they’re at their absolute crispiest and most delicious. However, if you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare in my house!), they store pretty well. For room temperature storage, I would keep them in an airtight container for no more than a day. They’ll start to lose some of their crispness after about 12-24 hours, but they’ll still be tasty. If you want to keep them longer, I highly recommend refrigerator storage. Pop them into an airtight container or a resealable bag and they should stay good for 2-3 days. The dough will soften a bit in the fridge, but that’s where reheating comes in! For freezer instructions, these actually freeze surprisingly well, both baked and unbaked. If freezing baked twists, let them cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil, or place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll last for about 2-3 months. To reheat, you can gently warm them in the air fryer at around 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes until heated through and slightly crisped up again. If you’re freezing the unbaked twists, wrap each one individually and then store them in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, you can usually go straight from frozen to the air fryer, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. For glaze timing, I always recommend glazing them right after they come out of the air fryer when they’re warm. If you’re storing them unglazed, you can brush them with the glaze after reheating, but the glaze will be less likely to adhere perfectly. For best results, glaze when fresh or right after reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, you absolutely can! For a gluten-free version, I’d recommend using a good quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that contains xanthan gum. You might need to adjust the liquid slightly, as gluten-free flours can absorb moisture differently. Start with the same amount of milk, and if the dough seems too dry, add a tablespoon more at a time until it’s soft and pliable. The texture might be a little different – perhaps a bit more tender or crumbly – but the flavor will still be fantastic!

Do I need to peel the zucchini?

This recipe doesn’t actually use zucchini! I think you might be thinking of a different recipe, perhaps zucchini bread or muffins. These air fryer bacon twists are made with a simple yeast-free dough. If you did mean a zucchini recipe, generally for things like zucchini bread, peeling is optional. Leaving the peel on can add a little extra color and fiber, but sometimes for a smoother texture, people prefer to peel it.

Can I make this as muffins instead?

That’s a fun idea! While these are designed as twisted bites, you could technically adapt the dough for a muffin-like texture. You’d want to slightly overfill your muffin liners with the dough, perhaps even incorporating a small piece of bacon into the batter before spooning it in, and then twisting a strip of dough on top with a little piece of bacon. Baking time would likely be a bit longer, maybe 18-22 minutes at the same temperature, so keep an eye on them until they’re golden brown and cooked through.

How can I adjust the sweetness level?

The sweetness in this recipe is quite subtle, mostly coming from the touch of sugar in the dough and the honey glaze. If you prefer them less sweet, you can reduce the sugar in the dough to 1/2 tablespoon or omit it entirely. For the glaze, you can use just 1 tablespoon of butter and skip the honey, or use a sugar-free maple syrup alternative. The bacon provides plenty of savory flavor, so they’ll still be delicious!

What can I use instead of the glaze?

The glaze is a lovely addition but definitely not essential! If you want to skip it, you can simply brush the warm twists with a little melted butter for some richness, or leave them plain – they’re still amazing. For a different flavor profile, you could try a light dusting of garlic powder mixed with a pinch of salt and pepper, or even a sprinkle of finely chopped chives right after they come out of the air fryer. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt is also a simple but effective finisher!

Final Thoughts

So there you have it, my friends! My absolute favorite air fryer bacon twists. I really hope you give these a try because they’re just such a delightful little treat that’s surprisingly easy to make. They’ve become such a go-to for me when I want something incredibly satisfying without a lot of fuss. The combination of that perfectly crispy bacon with the tender, slightly sweet dough is just pure magic, and the air fryer makes them so wonderfully golden and delicious. They’re proof that you don’t need complicated ingredients or hours in the kitchen to make something truly special. If you loved these, you might also enjoy my other quick and easy appetizer recipes like my ‘Spicy Garlic Shrimp Skewers’ or my ‘Easy Cheesy Stuffed Mushrooms.’ They bring that same level of deliciousness and wow-factor! I can’t wait to hear what you think of these bacon twists. Let me know in the comments below how they turn out for you, and if you have any amazing variations or serving suggestions – I always love hearing your creative ideas! Happy baking, and happy air frying!