Donut Grilled Cheese with Bacon Maple

Donut Grilled Cheese with Bacon Maple is the ultimate sweet and savory indulgence. This decadent sandwich features crispy bacon, gooey melted cheese, and a drizzle of maple syrup, all sandwiched between a buttery, golden-brown glazed donut. It’s the perfect balance of salty, sweet, and cheesy flavors, making it a fun and unique twist on a classic grilled cheese.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Sweet and Savory Perfection – The combination of crispy bacon, melted cheese, and maple syrup inside a glazed donut is irresistible.
• Quick and Easy – Ready in under 15 minutes with just a few ingredients.
• Great for Brunch or a Treat – Perfect for a special breakfast, brunch, or even a late-night snack.
• Customizable – Switch up the cheese, add more toppings, or use different types of donuts for a fun twist.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Glazed donuts (cut in half like a bun)
• Cheddar cheese (or your favorite melting cheese)
• Cooked crispy bacon
• Butter
• Maple syrup

Directions

1. Prepare the Donuts – Slice the glazed donuts in half horizontally.
2. Assemble the Sandwich – Place a slice of cheese on the bottom half of the donut, followed by crispy bacon, and another slice of cheese. Drizzle with a little maple syrup and top with the other half of the donut.
3. Heat the Pan – Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat.
4. Grill the Sandwich – Place the assembled donut sandwich in the pan and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, pressing gently with a spatula, until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
5. Serve – Drizzle with extra maple syrup if desired and enjoy warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 5-7 minutes
• Total Time: 10-12 minutes

Variations

• Different Cheeses – Try Swiss, Gouda, or mozzarella for a unique flavor twist.
• Extra Crunch – Add a layer of crispy fried onions or toasted pecans.
• Spicy Kick – Drizzle with a bit of hot honey or add a dash of cayenne pepper.
• Savory Donut Option – Use a plain or cake-style donut instead of a glazed one for less sweetness.
• Egg Addition – Add a fried or scrambled egg to make it even heartier.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 1 day.
• Reheating: Reheat in a toaster oven or skillet over low heat until warm and crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the donut soggy.

FAQs

Can I make this with a different type of donut?

Yes! You can use plain, cake, or even a savory donut if you prefer less sweetness.

What’s the best cheese to use?

Cheddar works great, but Swiss, Gouda, or mozzarella are also delicious choices.

Can I make this in an air fryer?

Yes! Cook at 350°F (175°C) for about 3-5 minutes until the cheese is melted and the donut is crispy.

Is this too sweet?

The balance of salty bacon and cheese with the sweet donut and maple syrup creates a great contrast, but you can adjust the sweetness by using a plain donut.

Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?

Absolutely! Turkey bacon works just as well for a leaner option.

What can I serve with this?

It pairs well with scrambled eggs, hash browns, or even a fresh fruit salad.

Can I add more toppings?

Yes! Avocado, caramelized onions, or a fried egg would all be great additions.

How do I keep the sandwich from getting too greasy?

Pat the bacon dry with a paper towel and use just a light amount of butter for grilling.

Can I make this ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can cook the bacon ahead of time for faster assembly.

What’s the best way to drizzle the maple syrup?

For even distribution, warm the syrup slightly before drizzling it over the sandwich.

Conclusion

Donut Grilled Cheese with Bacon Maple is the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and cheesy goodness. It’s an easy and fun dish that’s sure to impress at brunch or as a deliciously indulgent snack. Whether you stick with the classic combination or try your own variations, this unique twist on grilled cheese is a must-try!

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