Donut Grilled Cheese Bacon Maple

Donut grilled cheese with bacon maple is my go-to when I want something playful and over-the-top for brunch or an afternoon treat. Soft glazed donuts become golden crisp on the outside and gooey within thanks to a layer of melted cheddar. Turkey bacon and a touch of maple syrup round it out for that perfect sweet and salty combo. If you love surprising your tastebuds and making your kitchen smell like a donut shop, this is the recipe for you.

Every time I make these my friends ask for the recipe and are amazed at how easy it is. I made it for my niece’s birthday sleepover and now she asks for it every time she visits.

Ingredients

• Glazed donuts: these are the star sweet and fluffy with a sticky glaze opt for fresh bakery donuts if possible
• Cheddar cheese: brings sharp flavor and great melting qualities aged cheddar really stands out
• Turkey bacon: adds a smoky and slightly salty crunch look for thick cut for best texture
• Unsalted butter: helps the donut edges caramelize and get extra crispy choose high quality for the most flavor
• Maple syrup: ties everything together with its rich warm sweetness pure maple syrup is worth the splurge

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Donuts:

Slice each glazed donut in half horizontally so you have tops and bottoms for sandwiches. Do this carefully as the glaze can be sticky and slippery.

Assemble the Sandwich:

On the outside of each donut half spread a thin layer of softened butter. Lay down a slice of cheddar cheese on the bottom half then follow with two slices of cooked turkey bacon. Lightly drizzle with maple syrup before placing the top half of the donut to close each sandwich.

Grill the Sandwich:

Place a heavy nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Once hot set the prepared sandwiches butter side down. Cook for two to three minutes per side pressing gently with a spatula so the cheese melts and the donut gets golden and slightly crispy.

Serve:

Let the sandwiches cool for one to two minutes before slicing or serving whole. This makes them easier to handle and gives every bite a perfect blend of gooey cheese salty bacon and sweet donut.

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The real MVP here is the aged cheddar which cuts through the sweetness and works magic with the bacon. One time my nephew grabbed a donut grilled cheese with both hands and his delighted laughter made the whole family day brighter.

Storage tips

If you have extras let them cool completely then wrap tightly in foil. Store in the fridge up to one day. Rewarm in a toaster oven or air fryer for the best texture as microwaving will make the donuts soggy.

Ingredient substitutions

You can use smoked bacon or vegetarian bacon in place of turkey bacon. Any melty cheese works but I find Gouda or pepper jack bring a different twist. For something sweeter swap in honey or a caramel drizzle instead of maple syrup.

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Serving suggestions

Pair with strong coffee or a glass of fresh orange juice to balance the richness. For brunch serve with fresh berries or a tangy fruit salad. If you like a bit of heat a few dashes of hot sauce are surprisingly good on this sandwich.

Cultural background

This dish is inspired by the American trend of combining sweet and salty treats. Glazed donuts have long been a breakfast staple and adding cheese plus bacon riffs off the classic southern love for sweet and savory breakfasts.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use regular bacon instead of turkey bacon?

Yes, regular bacon works well—just cook until crispy before assembling the sandwich for best texture and flavor.

→ What type of donut is recommended?

Classic glazed yeast donuts are ideal, as their sweetness pairs perfectly with cheese and bacon. Cake donuts may be too dense.

→ Is it better to grill or use a panini press?

A skillet or griddle provides the best caramelization. Pressing gently helps the cheese melt evenly and achieve a crisp surface.

→ Can this be made gluten free?

Absolutely—simply use gluten free glazed donuts and check that your bacon and cheese are gluten free as well.

→ How do I prevent the donut from burning?

Grill over medium heat and watch closely; donuts caramelize quickly. Turning frequently helps avoid burning the glaze.

→ What other cheeses can I use?

Sharp cheddar is classic, but Gouda, Swiss, or Monterey Jack also melt beautifully and pair with maple and bacon.