What is Maple Bourbon Candied Bacon?

Maple Bourbon Candied Bacon is bacon cooked in maple syrup and bourbon. It tastes sweet, sticky, and smoky.

Can I use regular bacon instead of candied bacon?

Regular bacon works, but candied bacon gives a special flavor and texture. For the best taste, use candied bacon.

How spicy is the Jalapeño Jam?

The Jalapeño Jam has a moderate heat. You can adjust the spiciness by changing the jalapeño amount. Try different peppers for varying heat levels.

What type of cheese is best for this cheeseburger?

Use a cheese that melts well, like cheddar or American. Try pepper jack or gouda for a unique taste.

Can I make the Jalapeño Jam ahead of time?

Yes, make the Jalapeño Jam ahead and store it in the fridge for up to a week. This lets you prep the jam early and assemble the burger later.

How do I achieve the perfect crispiness for the candied bacon?

For crispiness, bake the candied bacon at 250°F for 20-30 minutes. This will get it crispy to your liking.

Can I grill the burger instead of cooking it on a griddle?

Yes, grilling the burger adds smoky flavor and a nice char. Just adjust cooking time and temperature as needed.

My Maple Bourbon Candied Bacon Cheeseburger with Jalapeño Jam

Name: My Maple Bourbon Candied Bacon Cheeseburger with Jalapeño Jam
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb high-quality ground beef (80/20 blend); 4 thick-cut bacon strips; 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup; 2 tablespoons bourbon whiskey; 4 burger buns (brioche or potato); 4 slices cheddar cheese; 2 fresh jalapeños; 1/4 cup sugar (for jalapeño jam); 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; Lettuce leaves; 2 tomatoes, sliced; Salt and black pepper to taste

Description

Indulgent gourmet cheeseburger featuring sweet maple syrup, smoky bourbon, crispy candied bacon, and spicy jalapeño jam. This restaurant-quality burger combines complex flavors for the ultimate comfort food experience.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb high-quality ground beef (80/20 blend)

4 thick-cut bacon strips

2 tablespoons pure maple syrup

2 tablespoons bourbon whiskey

4 burger buns (brioche or potato)

4 slices cheddar cheese

2 fresh jalapeños

1/4 cup sugar (for jalapeño jam)

2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

Lettuce leaves

2 tomatoes, sliced

Salt and black pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and prepare cast-iron skillet for bacon.

2. For candied bacon: In cast-iron skillet, cook bacon strips until partially cooked. Brush with maple syrup and bourbon mixture. Continue cooking until crispy and caramelized, about 8-10 minutes total.

3. For jalapeño jam: Dice jalapeños and sauté with sugar and vinegar until thickened, about 15 minutes. Set aside to cool.

4. Season ground beef with salt and pepper. Form into 4 patties, slightly larger than your buns as they’ll shrink while cooking.

5. Grill burger patties for 4-5 minutes per side for medium doneness, adding cheese in the last minute of cooking.

6. Toast burger buns lightly on the grill for 1-2 minutes.

7. Assemble burgers: Bottom bun, lettuce, tomato slice, burger patty with melted cheese, candied bacon, jalapeño jam, and top bun.

8. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy your gourmet creation.

Notes

For best results, let the jalapeño jam cool completely before assembling to prevent soggy buns.

Candied bacon can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving.

Adjust jalapeño jam spice level by removing seeds for milder heat or adding extra jalapeños for more kick.

For extra flavor, caramelize onions and add as an optional topping.

Use freshly ground beef from your butcher for the best texture and flavor.

Prep Time: 15
Cook Time: 20
Category: Main Dish
Method: Grilling
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1
Calories: 680
Sugar: 12g
Sodium: 1200mg
Fat: 42g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Unsaturated Fat: 20g
Trans Fat: 1g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 38g
Cholesterol: 95mg