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Donut Grilled Cheese Bacon Maple

As seen in: Food That Earns Undeserved Culinary Credit

This sandwich blends sweet, salty, and cheesy layers with glazed donuts serving as a golden, buttery exterior. Inside, melted cheddar clings to crispy turkey bacon, while a hint of maple syrup adds aromatic depth. Once assembled, grilling transforms the donut's glaze into a caramelized crust, encasing the rich flavors within. Enjoy for breakfast, brunch, or as an unexpected lunch treat—the contrast between the warm donuts, savory cheese, and smoky bacon creates a playful balance sure to satisfy any craving.

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Sarah Crisp
Contributed By Sarah Crisp
Last modified on Sat, 28 Jun 2025 14:21:16 GMT
A stack of donuts with bacon and maple toppings. Save This
A stack of donuts with bacon and maple toppings. | cookrisp.com

Donut Grilled Cheese with Bacon Maple is the sort of playful meal that instantly brings a smile to the table. Here, pillowy glazed donuts hug gooey cheddar cheese and crispy turkey bacon, finished with a drizzle of maple syrup. This recipe is a celebration of contrasting flavors—perfect for treating someone or elevating a weekend breakfast.

The combination of the maple glaze and melty cheese is something I never knew I needed until my youngest insisted we try it with donuts. Now it is a must for sleepover breakfasts.

Ingredients

  • Glazed donuts: these create a sweet buttery shell and stay soft when grilled look for fresh plump glazed donuts that are not too sticky
  • Cheddar cheese: brings rich sharp flavor and melts beautifully choose a quality cheddar for best taste
  • Turkey bacon: offers smoky salty balance to the sweetness opt for well-cooked crispy slices
  • Unsalted butter: helps brown and caramelize the donut surface use good quality butter for extra flavor
  • Maple syrup: adds a final sheen and deep sweetness go for pure maple syrup for most impact

Step-by-Step Instructions

Slice and Prep the Donuts:
Using a serrated knife carefully slice each glazed donut in half horizontally to make a top and bottom be gentle to avoid squishing the donuts then set aside
Butter the Donut Halves:
Take softened unsalted butter and spread a thin even layer on the outside surfaces of each donut half this is key for caramelized golden edges
Assemble the Sandwich:
On the unbuttered side of each bottom donut lay down a slice of cheddar cheese layer two pieces of cooked turkey bacon on top finish with a light drizzle of maple syrup then close with the top donut half buttered side facing out
Grill to Perfection:
Preheat a nonstick skillet over medium heat place the sandwiches in the skillet buttered side down cook gently for about two to three minutes per side press slightly with a spatula to ensure even browning flip carefully and continue cooking until the cheese is fully melted and the donut surfaces are golden and crisp
Rest and Serve:
Transfer grilled sandwiches to a cooling rack or board let cool just a minute so filling sets slightly then serve warm and enjoy every messy decadent bite
A stack of grilled cheese sandwiches with bacon and maple syrup. Save This
A stack of grilled cheese sandwiches with bacon and maple syrup. | cookrisp.com

Cheddar is my favorite here because it stands up to the sweetness of the donut and syrup but I remember my first try with smoked gouda for an extra twist. My kids still talk about how the cheese pull was epic that morning.

Storage Tips

If you have any leftovers keep them in the fridge wrapped tightly in foil or a container. Warm them in a skillet over low heat to re-crisp the donuts and remelt the cheese. Avoid microwaving as it can make the donut soggy and the cheese rubbery.

Ingredient Substitutions

Regular bacon can replace turkey bacon if you prefer a richer taste. For vegetarians try using vegetarian bacon or even thinly sliced apples for the salty sweet effect. Any melty cheese works here such as Monterey Jack Havarti or even mozzarella for a stretchier bite.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these sandwiches with fresh fruit for a balanced meal. For an over the top experience serve alongside a mug of strong coffee or a tall glass of cold milk. They also make a fun addition to a brunch board with fresh berries and scrambled eggs.

Cultural Historical Context

This recipe is inspired by the American love of sweet and savory breakfasts blending diner classics like donuts grilled cheese and bacon. Using donuts as a sandwich bread first boomed as a food trend at state fairs and quirky cafes and now it is a crowd-pleasure in home kitchens for their playful combinations.

Common Queries

→ Can I use regular bacon instead of turkey bacon?

Yes, regular bacon works well and delivers a richer, smokier flavor compared to turkey bacon.

→ How do I achieve extra crispy bacon?

Broil your cooked bacon for a few minutes before assembling to add crunch and depth.

→ Will the donut get soggy during grilling?

Grilling the sandwich in butter crisps and caramelizes the donut, keeping it firm and deliciously golden.

→ Can I add extra flavors to the maple syrup?

Try adding a dash of cinnamon or a sprinkle of sea salt for a nuanced, aromatic touch.

→ Is there a gluten-free option for this sandwich?

If using gluten-free glazed donuts, the sandwich remains suitable for a gluten-free diet.

→ What’s the best cheese for this sandwich?

Sharp cheddar melts beautifully and pairs well with sweet elements, but feel free to experiment with gouda or Swiss.

Donut Grilled Cheese Bacon Maple

Sweet glazed donuts, bacon, and cheddar unite with a hint of maple for an irresistible, comforting sandwich.

Preparation Time
10 Minutes Required
Cooking Duration
10 Minutes Required
Overall Time
20 Minutes Required
Contributed By: Sarah Crisp

Recipe Type: Gathering Stars

Skill Level: Beginner-Friendly

Cuisine Type: Fusion

Serving Size: 4 Number of Servings (4 sandwiches)

Dietary Preferences: Free of Gluten

What You’ll Need

→ Main ingredients

01 4 glazed donuts, sliced in half horizontally
02 4 slices of cheddar cheese
03 8 slices of cooked turkey bacon
04 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
05 2 tablespoons maple syrup

Steps to Follow

Step 01

Slice the glazed donuts horizontally, creating a top and bottom half. Set aside.

Step 02

Spread a thin layer of softened butter on the outer sides of each donut half. On the bottom half, place a slice of cheddar cheese, two slices of cooked turkey bacon, and drizzle a little maple syrup. Top with the other donut half to form the sandwich.

Step 03

Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the sandwiches buttered-side down onto the skillet. Grill for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the cheese is melted and the donut is golden and caramelized.

Step 04

Remove from the skillet and let cool slightly. Serve warm for the perfect blend of sweet, salty, and cheesy flavors in every bite.

Additional Notes

  1. If you prefer extra crispy bacon, broil it for a few minutes before assembling the sandwiches.
  2. You can substitute the turkey bacon with regular bacon for a richer taste.
  3. For an extra burst of flavor, add a dash of cinnamon to the maple syrup.

Tools to Have

  • Non-stick skillet or griddle
  • Knife for slicing donuts
  • Spatula for flipping sandwiches

Allergen Information

Double-check ingredients for allergens, and seek medical guidance if necessary.
  • Contains dairy (cheddar cheese, butter)
  • Contains gluten (glazed donuts if not gluten-free)

Nutrition Info (Per Serving)

These figures are estimates and shouldn’t replace professional health advice.
  • Calories Per Serving: 450
  • Fat Content: 22 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 42 grams
  • Protein Amount: 18 grams