Donut Grilled Cheese

This indulgent donut grilled cheese sandwich turns breakfast into the ultimate comfort food experience. I created this recipe during a lazy Sunday brunch when my pantry was nearly empty, and it's now my family's most requested special occasion breakfast.

The first time I made these for my kids' sleepover, they declared it should be our new birthday breakfast tradition. Three years later, we're still keeping that promise.

• Glazed donuts these provide the perfect sweet base and crisp beautifully in the pan
• Bacon adds a salty crunch that balances the sweet donut
• Cheddar cheese choose a sharp variety for the best flavor contrast
• Maple syrup enhances the sweetness and creates a delicious glaze
• Ground cinnamon adds warmth and complements the donut's sweetness
• Cayenne pepper optional but adds a subtle heat that elevates the entire sandwich

How To Make Donut Grilled Cheese

Cook the bacon

Start with medium heat to render the fat slowly, cooking for about 8 minutes until the bacon reaches your desired crispiness. The bacon should be fully cooked as it won't cook further once assembled in the sandwich. Pat it with paper towels to remove excess grease.

Create the spiced syrup

Mix the maple syrup, cinnamon, and cayenne in a small bowl until fully combined. This sweet and spicy mixture will soak into the donut and create an amazing flavor contrast with the cheese. Be sure to whisk well so the spices don't clump.

Toast the donuts

Place the halved donuts cut side down in the bacon grease. This is crucial for flavor development. Toast for about 2 minutes until they develop a golden crust but still maintain their softness inside. The sugary glaze will begin to caramelize.

Build your sandwich

Flip the donuts and immediately add cheese to the bottom halves while they're hot. The residual heat will begin melting the cheese. Break the bacon into pieces and distribute evenly over the cheese. The bacon should be in smaller pieces to ensure every bite has some.

Add the maple drizzle

Drizzle the spiced maple syrup over the bacon layer. Be generous but not excessive as too much can make the sandwich soggy. The syrup will further melt into the hot ingredients.

Complete the sandwich

Place the top donut half over the fillings and press down gently with a spatula. Cook for another 1 to 2 minutes, allowing the cheese to fully melt and the flavors to meld together. The slight pressure helps the sandwich hold together.

The bacon is my absolute favorite component in this recipe. I discovered that using thick cut bacon creates the perfect textural contrast to the soft donut and melty cheese. My daughter once requested this for her birthday dinner instead of breakfast, and we ended up making a double batch for the whole family.

Make Ahead Options

You can prepare components in advance if you're serving a crowd. Cook the bacon and mix the spiced syrup up to a day ahead. Store the bacon in the refrigerator and reheat briefly in the microwave before assembling. The syrup can stay at room temperature if being used within 24 hours.

Sweet and Savory Variations

Experiment with different cheese varieties for unique flavor profiles. Pepper jack adds a nice kick, while cream cheese creates an almost frosting like center. You can also substitute the bacon with ham for a milder flavor or add thin apple slices for freshness and texture. For an extra decadent version, use chocolate glazed donuts with brie cheese and omit the cayenne.

Serving Suggestions

This rich sandwich pairs beautifully with fresh fruit to balance the indulgence. Berries or sliced oranges provide a refreshing contrast. For brunch gatherings, serve with a light arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. If serving as a dessert, add a small scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for an over the top treat that will impress guests.

Perfect Pairings

The sweet and savory combination of this sandwich calls for complementary beverages. A strong black coffee helps cut through the richness, while a glass of cold milk creates a nostalgic breakfast experience. For brunches, try serving with a spiced chai tea or even a small mimosa for adults. The contrast of the effervescent champagne with the rich sandwich creates a delightful taste experience.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use different types of donuts for this sandwich?

Yes, while glazed donuts provide the classic sweetness that pairs well with the savory elements, you could experiment with plain, chocolate, or even cake donuts. Just avoid filled varieties as they may create too much moisture when grilled.

→ What cheese alternatives work well in this sandwich?

While cheddar offers a sharp contrast to the sweet donut, you could substitute with American cheese for better melting, pepper jack for a spicy kick, or smoked gouda for an enhanced savory flavor profile.

→ Is the cayenne pepper necessary?

The cayenne is entirely optional and adds a pleasant heat that balances the sweetness. If you prefer less spice, you can omit it completely or reduce the amount to just a pinch for subtle warmth.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

This sandwich is best enjoyed immediately after preparation while the cheese is melted and the donut exterior is crispy. The contrast between warm, gooey filling and slightly crisp donut is part of what makes it special.

→ What can I serve alongside this sandwich?

Since this is quite rich, consider pairing it with fresh fruit, a light salad with vinaigrette, or a small serving of hash browns. For beverages, coffee or cold milk makes an excellent complement.

→ How can I make this vegetarian?

Simply omit the bacon and consider adding thin apple slices or avocado for additional texture and flavor. You might also increase the spices in the maple mixture to compensate for the missing bacon flavor.