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Donut grilled cheese with bacon and maple glaze is the kind of sandwich I make when I am craving something playful but seriously over the top. It is sweet smoky salty gooey and crunchy in every bite. With just a handful of pantry ingredients and a skillet this treat comes together in minutes for those moments when you need some fun food.
One bite made my friend pause and say this is the best grilled cheese I have ever had. It is impossible to have a bad day with one of these on your plate.
Ingredients
- Glazed donuts: look for ones with a fresh soft glaze so you get the ultimate contrast of crispy and tender these will replace traditional bread and bring all the sweet notes
- Bacon: pick the thickest cut you can find for maximum crunch and flavor smokiness is key
- Cheddar cheese: classic sharp cheddar melts beautifully and stands up to the sweetness but a mild cheddar works for a lighter flavor
- Maple syrup: real maple syrup gives a rich earthy sweetness that pairs perfectly with bacon
- Ground cinnamon: this little touch adds warmth and depth to the glaze choose a fresh aromatic one if possible
- Cayenne pepper: totally optional but adds a spark of heat for extra complexity be sure to use a small pinch and taste test
Step by Step Instructions
- Cook the Bacon:
- Add bacon strips to a cold skillet and turn heat to medium. Let them render and crisp slowly turning once until deep golden and crunchy about five to six minutes. Drain on paper towels and let cool slightly.
- Make the Maple Glaze:
- Mix maple syrup ground cinnamon and cayenne pepper in a small bowl until smooth. Taste and adjust the heat to your liking.
- Toast the Donuts:
- Wipe out the skillet and place the donut halves cut side down over medium heat. Toast until lightly golden and crisp about ninety seconds. This helps prevent sogginess.
- Assemble the Sandwich:
- On the toasted side of each donut bottom place two slices of cheddar followed by crumbled bacon. Drizzle with maple glaze ensuring even distribution so every bite is flavored.
- Melt the Cheese:
- Top each with the other donut half pressed gently. Return to the skillet over low heat and cook for one to two minutes pressing gently so the cheese melts without burning the glaze.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Let cool for one minute before slicing the sandwich in half with a serrated knife to avoid squishing. Serve immediately while gooey and warm.
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The bacon is my favorite part smoky salty and crisp paired with sweet donut is like breakfast meets dessert. When my nephew first tried this he could not stop grinning and asked me to make it every year for his birthday.
Storage Tips
This sandwich is best enjoyed fresh so you get the crisp edges and melty cheese. Leftovers do not reheat well but if necessary you can wrap in foil and warm in a toaster oven for four to five minutes. Avoid microwaving as the donuts will go soggy.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap the cheddar for American or even pepper jack if you enjoy extra spice. Turkey bacon or plant based bacon work too though you may lose a bit of that special smoke flavor. Brioche buns can stand in for donuts when you want something slightly less sweet.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with crunchy pickles to offset the richness. For brunch add a side of scrambled eggs or a quick berry salad. I love making mini versions with smaller donuts for a breakfast buffet or party.
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Context and Inspiration
People have been combining sweet and savory breakfast flavors for decades but donut grilled cheese is a newer playground for flavor lovers. It feels like diner food gone wild and is a nod to state fairs where everything delicious can get an upgrade.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Recipe
- → Can I use another type of cheese?
Yes, swap cheddar for American, Swiss, or pepper jack to suit your taste preferences.
- → Do I need to use glazed donuts?
Glazed donuts add sweetness, but plain or filled varieties offer different textures and flavor notes.
- → What's the best bacon for this sandwich?
Thick-cut or applewood-smoked bacon provides optimal crispiness and rich flavor.
- → Is the maple glaze spicy?
The maple glaze is mildly spicy if you add cayenne; omit it for a purely sweet, aromatic finish.
- → How do I prevent soggy donuts?
Briefly toasting donut halves before assembling keeps them crisp and holds fillings well.