Step 1

Make the rum-glazed bacon: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2

Add the Captain Morgan® Spiced Rum, maple syrup, and brown sugar to a small bowl and whisk until the sugar is dissolved.

Step 3

Arrange the bacon in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet and brush the rum glaze over one side. Place in the oven for 6 minutes, then flip the bacon, brush the other side with the rum glaze, and return to the oven for another 6 minutes. Continue flipping and glazing until the bacon is crisp and browned, about 15–20 minutes more. Transfer to a plate until ready to use.

Step 4

Make the mashed potato balls: Chop 6 slices of rum-glazed bacon and add to a large bowl with the mashed potatoes and green onions, and mix until well combined.

Step 5

Using a 1-tablespoon scoop with a spring release, scoop 1 tablespoon of the potato mixture into your hand. Place a cube of Monterey Jack cheese in the center, then top with another tablespoon of the potato mixture. Roll into a ball, completely encasing the cheese. Repeat with the remaining ingredients to make 12 stuffed potato balls.

Step 6

Add the bread crumbs, pepper, salt, and garlic powder to a shallow bowl and mix to combine. Beat the eggs in another shallow bowl. Add the flour to a third shallow bowl.

Step 7

Roll the potato balls in the flour, then the eggs, then coat in the bread crumbs.

Step 8

Heat the vegetable oil in a large, high-walled pan over medium-high heat until it reaches 375°F (190°C).

Step 9

Working in batches, gently add the potato balls to the hot oil and fry, turning frequently, until golden brown, 4–6 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel–lined plate to drain while you repeat with the remaining potato balls and make the Old-Fashioned.

Step 10

Make the rum Old-Fashioned: Add the granulated sugar, Captain Morgan® Spiced Rum, Angostura bitters, and 1 ice cube to a small rocks glass. Stir with a spoon until the sugar dissolves. Fill the glass with more ice and garnish with the orange peel and cherry.

Step 11

Thinly slice the remaining 2 strips of rum-glazed bacon, then sprinkle over the potato balls, along with the green onion. Serve alongside the Captain Morgan® rum Old-Fashioned.

Step 12

Enjoy!