Breakfast & Brunch
This bacon jam burger egg rolls recipe transforms a classic brunch into irresistible golden bites that pack smoky-sweet flavor in every crispy layer. The secret lies in homemade bacon jam—a sticky, caramelized blend of rendered bacon fat, brown sugar, and spices—that elevates simple burger patties into something extraordinary.
I developed this recipe after craving a fusion of comfort and indulgence that could be served as both an appetizer and a satisfying meal.
The magic happens in three key components: crispy egg roll wrappers filled with seasoned beef and bacon jam, perfectly cooked burger patties glazed with the same jam, and a final assembly that creates a textural contrast between tender filling and golden crust.
What makes this recipe stand out is how each element complements the other—the smoky depth of the bacon jam ties together the savory beef, while the egg rolls add a satisfying crunch that balances the richness.
By the time you're done, you'll have a dish that's equal parts restaurant-worthy and home-cooked charm: crispy egg rolls with melty, jam-coated beef inside, paired with juicy burger patties that soak up the same flavorful glaze.
The result is a meal that feels special enough for brunch with friends but simple enough for a weeknight dinner. Let's get started!
What sets this recipe apart is the bacon jam—a versatile condiment that works as both a filling and a glaze. I've perfected a method that renders bacon fat slowly with brown sugar and spices, creating a thick, glossy jam that caramelizes beautifully.
This isn't your typical sweet-and-salty bacon jam; it's a deep, complex sauce that adds layers of flavor to every component of the dish.
The burger patties, seasoned with classic spices and formed just slightly thicker than usual, absorb the jam during cooking, creating a sticky, flavorful crust that pairs perfectly with the egg rolls. The egg rolls themselves are where the real magic happens.
Thinly sliced beef and bacon jam are wrapped in crispy egg roll wrappers, then fried until golden and shatteringly crispy.
The key to achieving that perfect texture is using just enough oil to create a light batter on the wrappers before frying—this ensures they stay crispy even after being filled.
When you bite into one, you'll get that satisfying crunch followed by tender, jam-coated beef and a burst of smoky-sweet flavor. This recipe delivers on three fronts: it's a showstopper appetizer, a hearty main dish, and a way to use bacon jam in multiple ways.
Serve the egg rolls as a starter with a side of pickles, then follow with the burger patties on toasted buns for a complete meal.
The bacon jam keeps well in the fridge for up to two weeks, so you can make a big batch and use it in other recipes too.
Ingredients for bacon jam burger egg rolls
Pantry staples plus a few key ingredients for smoky-sweet bites that'll wow everyone.
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bacon 🥓 | 12 oz | Thick-cut, chopped into small pieces |
| Brown Sugar 🍯 | ½ cup | Packed, light or dark |
| Apple Cider Vinegar 🍎 | 2 tbsp | For tangy depth |
| Garlic Cloves 🧄 | 4 cloves | Minced for jam |
| Ground Black Pepper 🌶️ | 1 tsp | Freshly cracked |
| Ground Cumin 🌿 | ½ tsp | Toasted for warmth |
| Ground Beef 🥩 | 1 lb | 80/20 fat ratio preferred |
| Egg Roll Wrappers 🍡 | 12 whole | Square or round |
| Vegetable Oil 🫒 | 2 cups | For frying |
| Cornstarch 🌾 | 2 tbsp | For crispy texture |
| All-Purpose Flour 🌾 | ¼ cup | For dredging |
| Sesame Seeds 🌰 | 1 tbsp | Toasted for garnish |
| Burger Buns 🍞 | 4 whole | Toasted for serving |
| Salt 🧂 | 1 tsp | Kosher or sea salt |
| Mustard 🍯 | 1 tbsp | Yellow or Dijon |
The bacon is the star here—thick-cut gives the best flavor and fat. Costco or Trader Joe's usually have the best deals on bulk bacon. Look for pieces with good marbling for extra richness. If you can't find thick-cut, regular bacon works in a pinch, but it'll render faster. For the brown sugar, light or dark both work, but dark adds a deeper molasses flavor that pairs perfectly with the smoky bacon. The apple cider vinegar is non-negotiable—it cuts through the sweetness and adds that tangy depth that makes the bacon jam shine.
No thick-cut bacon? Regular bacon chopped extra small works, but you might need to add an extra tablespoon of brown sugar to compensate for the reduced fat. Short on apple cider vinegar? White vinegar or balsamic vinegar in a pinch, though the flavor will be slightly different. The ground beef should be 80/20 fat ratio—leaner cuts won't give you that juicy, flavorful bite. For the egg roll wrappers, King Noodle or Taste of China brands are my go-tos, but any quality brand will work. If you can't find square wrappers, round ones work too—just trim them to fit.
The bacon jam keeps for 2 weeks in the fridge, sealed tightly in a jar. The egg roll wrappers should be stored in the freezer—they'll stay fresh for 6 months. Make a double batch of bacon jam if you can—it's perfect for burgers, sandwiches, or even drizzling over roasted veggies. The egg rolls reheat best in the oven at 375°F for 5-10 minutes—they'll stay crispy that way. If you're making these ahead, assemble the egg rolls but don't fry them until ready to serve.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- One-Pan Magic: The bacon jam cooks right alongside the egg rolls—no fancy steps, just toss everything on a sheet pan, bake, and walk away. My kids think it’s "fancy food" because of the jam, but honestly? It’s the kind of meal that lets me multitask while dinner happens.
- Sweet-Savory Bomb: That brown sugar and apple cider vinegar jam? It’s the star—sticky, smoky, and just sharp enough to cut through the richness. I’ll be real: I’ve eaten it straight off the spoon (bad habit), but it turns a regular burger into something ridiculously good.
- Party in a Box: Freeze half the batch and boom—game-day snacks or last-minute dinner are covered. Between us, these are the only egg rolls I’ll make for a crowd because they’re easy to reheat and no one ever notices the shortcut.
- Budget Win: Bacon jam stretches a few slices into a whole meal, and the rest? Perfect for slathering on toast or tossing in salads later. I’ve made this for $12 and fed four people—leftovers included. My wallet thanks me every time.
Step-by-step instructions for bacon jam burger egg rolls
Here's how to make these smoky-sweet bites with perfectly crispy wrappers.
Make the Bacon Jam
In a large skillet, cook the 12 oz bacon over medium heat for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.
Reduce the heat to medium-low and add the 0.5 cup brown sugar, 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar, 4 minced garlic cloves, 1 tsp ground black pepper, and 0.5 tsp ground cumin. Stir constantly for 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens and becomes glossy. The jam should have a deep amber color and a rich, caramelized aroma.
Return the cooked bacon to the skillet and stir to combine. Let the jam cool slightly while you prepare the filling—it'll thicken further as it cools. This sweet-savory jam is the star of these egg rolls, so don't rush this step.
Prepare the Burger Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the 1 lb ground beef, 1 tbsp mustard, 1 tsp salt, and 1 tsp ground black pepper. Mix gently with your hands until just combined—overmixing will make the burgers tough. Form the mixture into 4 equal patties, each about ½-inch thick. You want these to be compact but not dense.
Heat a clean skillet over medium-high heat and cook the beef patties for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through to 160°F internally. Let them rest for 2 minutes before slicing each patty into 4 equal strips—this makes them easier to work with in the egg rolls.
Assemble the Egg Rolls
In a small bowl, whisk together the 0.25 cup all-purpose flour and 2 tbsp cornstarch. Place the 12 egg roll wrappers on a clean surface and brush each one lightly with vegetable oil—this prevents sticking and helps with crispiness.
On each wrapper, place 1 tablespoon of bacon jam, 2 strips of cooked beef, and a small spoonful of the remaining jam. Fold the wrapper in half to create a half-moon shape, then roll tightly from the bottom up, sealing the edges with a dab of water. Place the assembled egg rolls seam-side down on a plate and cover with a damp towel to prevent drying.
Fry to Crispy Perfection
Heat 2 cups vegetable oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F—use a thermometer to monitor the temperature carefully. Fry 3-4 egg rolls at a time for 3-4 minutes per side until deep golden brown and crispy. The oil should sizzle gently, and the wrappers should be firm to the touch.
Remove the fried egg rolls with a slotted spoon and drain on a wire rack or paper towels. If the oil temperature drops below 340°F, let it recover before adding more egg rolls. The key to crispy egg rolls is maintaining the right oil temperature—don't overcrowd the pan.
Serve Warm with Burger Buns
Toast the 4 burger buns in a dry skillet over medium heat for 1-2 minutes per side until lightly golden. Split the buns open and fill each with 1 egg roll, drizzling any leftover bacon jam on top. Sprinkle with 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds for a nutty finish.
Serve immediately while the egg rolls are still crispy and warm. The combination of smoky bacon jam, savory beef, and perfectly crispy wrappers makes these bites irresistible. Enjoy with extra jam on the side for dipping!
Pro Tips For Making Bacon Jam Burger Egg Rolls
- CRISPY THE BACON FIRST: Cook the bacon until it’s deep brown, not just pink—this is the base flavor for your jam. I used to rush it, but crispy bacon makes the jam richer and the egg rolls taste like they’ve been simmering for hours. Save the fat for the jam; don’t drain it.
- SMASH THE GARLIC: Mince the garlic finely—almost like a paste—so it blends into the jam smoothly. Whole cloves burn and leave chunks; minced garlic dissolves and adds depth. If you’re lazy, crush the cloves with the flat side of your knife first, then chop.
- LOW AND SLOW FOR JAM: Simmer the bacon jam on medium-low heat for at least 20 minutes—no rushing. High heat burns the sugar and makes it bitter. Stir occasionally, and if it gets too thick, splash in a tablespoon of water. Patience here makes all the difference.
- SALT THE WRAPPERS LAST: Skip salting the egg roll wrappers until after filling—salt draws out moisture, and soggy wrappers are a nightmare. Brush them lightly with oil first, then fill, then add a pinch of salt just before sealing. The jam’s flavor will shine through without the wrappers getting mushy.
Flavor customization for this bacon jam burger egg rolls
Sweet-Savory Balance
Adjust the brown sugar to apple cider vinegar ratio for more or less sweetness. For a bolder sweetness, increase brown sugar by 1 tbsp and reduce vinegar by 1 tsp. For tangier jam, add 1 extra tsp vinegar and reduce sugar by 1 tbsp.
I find 0.4 cup brown sugar and 3 tbsp vinegar creates the perfect balance for my taste buds. 🍯
Spicy Kick Options
Add ½ tsp cayenne pepper or 1 tbsp hot sauce to the bacon jam for heat lovers. For a milder kick, use ½ tsp smoked paprika instead. I like adding 1 tsp chipotle powder for a smoky-spicy depth that pairs perfectly with the crispy egg rolls.
Always taste as you go—you can adjust heat after the jam cools slightly.
Umami Boost
Enhance the savory depth by adding 1 tbsp soy sauce or 1 tsp fish sauce to the bacon jam. For a richer flavor, stir in 1 minced shallot along with the garlic.
I’ve also experimented with 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce, which adds a complex umami note that elevates the entire dish. These additions work especially well if your bacon isn’t extra salty.
Herb Variations
Fresh herbs brighten up the bacon jam while keeping it versatile. Try adding 1 tbsp finely chopped fresh rosemary or 1 tsp dried thyme for an earthy twist. For a bright, citrusy note, stir in 1 tsp lemon zest after the jam cools.
I love using 1 tbsp chopped cilantro in the egg roll filling for a fresh contrast to the smoky jam. Always add herbs at the end to preserve their flavor.
Gluten-Free Adaptation
Replace the all-purpose flour and cornstarch with ¼ cup gluten-free all-purpose flour and 2 tbsp cornstarch for crispy egg rolls. Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend like Bob’s Red Mill to maintain texture.
For extra crispiness, brush the assembled egg rolls with 1 tbsp egg wash (1 egg + 1 tbsp water) before frying. This ensures a golden, shatteringly crisp exterior even without gluten. ✨
Extra Crispy Technique
For ultra-crispy egg rolls, double the cornstarch to 4 tbsp and add 1 tbsp potato starch to the flour mixture. This creates an extra-thick batter that locks in crispiness.
I also recommend air-frying after an initial pan-fry: fry the egg rolls at 375°F for 2 minutes per side, then finish in the air fryer at 400°F for 1-2 minutes for a lighter, crispier result. Just watch closely to avoid burning! 🔥
Nutrition facts
Frequently asked questions
Can I make the bacon jam ahead of time?
The bacon jam actually tastes even better when made a day in advance! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, and it reheats perfectly in the microwave or skillet. I like making a big batch because it's so versatile—use it on burgers, sandwiches, or even as a glaze for roasted veggies!
How do I keep the egg rolls crispy when reheating?
Egg rolls lose crispiness when reheated, but you can minimize sogginess by using the oven method. Place them on a wire rack over a baking sheet and bake at 375°F for 5-7 minutes—the air circulation keeps them crispy. For extra protection, wrap them in foil before reheating, then uncover for the last 2 minutes to crisp up the exterior. Never microwave them!
What if I don't have egg roll wrappers?
No problem! You can use spring roll wrappers (they're slightly larger) or even phyllo dough for a different texture. For phyllo, brush layers with oil and fold tightly—it won't be as crispy but still delicious. If you're in a pinch, thinly sliced tortillas (like low-carb wraps) work too, though they'll be softer. The key is keeping the filling compact and sealing the edges well.
Can I make this recipe with chicken instead of beef?
For chicken egg rolls, use 1 lb ground chicken thighs (they're juicier) and cook them until they reach 165°F internally. The chicken will absorb the bacon jam differently, so you might want to add 1 extra tbsp jam to the filling. I also recommend adding ½ tsp dried oregano to complement the chicken's flavor. The texture will be slightly lighter but just as flavorful!
How do I store leftovers?
Store the egg rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, but they'll be best eaten within 2 days for maximum crispiness. The burger patties can be refrigerated for 3 days or frozen for 1 month. To reheat, use the oven method mentioned above. The bacon jam keeps separately for 2 weeks—it's perfect for quick flavor boosts on other dishes!