Sweet and Savory Donut Grilled Cheese with Bacon Maple (Print version)

A glazed donut grilled cheese loaded with crispy bacon, melted cheddar, and a maple drizzle, ready in 15 minutes for the ultimate sweet and savory treat.

# Ingredients:

For the sandwiches

01 - 2 large glazed donuts, preferably day-old
02 - 4 slices sharp cheddar cheese
03 - 4 slices thick-cut bacon
04 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
05 - 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
06 - 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
07 - Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)

# Instructions:

01 - Fry the bacon in a nonstick skillet over medium heat until deeply crisp, 6-8 minutes. Transfer to paper towels to drain.
02 - Stir the maple syrup with cinnamon and cayenne in a small bowl. Set aside.
03 - Slice each donut in half horizontally. Spread softened butter on the cut sides of all four halves.
04 - Heat the same skillet over medium-low. Place the donut halves cut-side-down and cook for 2-3 minutes until golden and slightly crisp. Watch closely so the sugar does not burn.
05 - Flip the bottom halves. Add two slices of cheddar and the crispy bacon to each. Drizzle with the maple mixture. Top with the remaining donut halves, press gently, and cook for 1-2 minutes until the cheese melts. Serve warm.

# Good to know:

01 - Best served immediately while the edges are crisp.
02 - Day-old donuts hold up better than fresh during grilling.