Let’s be honest—some burgers are good, some are great… and some are straight-up unforgettable. This Maple Bourbon Donut Bacon Burger with Candied Jalapeños is 100% in that last category. It’s smoky, cheesy, sweet, spicy, and stacked between two maple bourbon-glazed donuts for the ultimate savory-sweet flavor explosion.
It’s not your average backyard burger. It’s what happens when brunch meets barbecue and dessert crashes the party—in the best way possible.
Why I Love This Recipe
This burger is pure indulgence, and it hits every craving at once. The donuts bring the sweetness and soft, slightly sticky texture. The juicy beef patty and melted cheddar give you the classic cheeseburger satisfaction. Add in crispy bacon and the heat-sugar punch of candied jalapeños, and you’ve got one of the most outrageous (and delicious) burger bites you’ll ever take.
It’s just as jaw-dropping as Beer Cheese Dip or Dorito Casserole, and it makes a serious statement at any summer cookout, tailgate, or burger night.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 maple bourbon glazed donuts (cut in half)
- 8 slices bacon
- Candied jalapeños (store-bought or homemade)
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Ingredient Notes & Swaps
- Donuts: Use sturdy, maple-glazed cake donuts or yeast-style with structure. Fresh bakery donuts are best!
- Beef: 80/20 ground beef gives the ideal fat-to-flavor ratio for juicy patties.
- Candied Jalapeños: You can find them jarred or make your own with sliced jalapeños, sugar, and vinegar.
- Cheese: Sharp cheddar complements the sweetness beautifully, but pepper jack adds extra heat.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Bacon
In a skillet over medium heat, cook bacon until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate. - Form & Season the Patties
Divide ground beef into four equal portions and form into patties. Season generously with salt and pepper. - Cook the Burgers
In the same skillet (or on a grill), cook patties for 4–5 minutes per side for medium-rare, longer if preferred. Place a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty during the last minute of cooking to melt. - Toast the Donuts
Slice each donut in half horizontally. In a separate skillet or on the grill, lightly toast the cut sides until golden. - Assemble the Burgers
Place the cheesy burger patty on the bottom half of each toasted donut. Top with 2 slices of crispy bacon and a spoonful of candied jalapeños. Cap it with the top half of the donut. - Serve Hot
Serve immediately—preferably with napkins and no regrets.
Tips for Success
- Don’t skip the toasting: It adds structure and helps prevent the donut from getting soggy.
- Make it slider-style: Use mini donuts and smaller patties for party-ready sliders.
- Balance the flavor: Don’t overdo the jalapeños—just enough to cut through the sweetness.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Serve these epic burgers with:
- Beer Cheese Dip – creamy, savory contrast
- Crockpot Nacho Dip – a rich and spicy pre-game snack
- Dorito Casserole – for a full-flavored comfort meal
- Sheet Pan Quesadillas – to add variety to your burger bar
- Chicken Enchiladas – a saucy, satisfying follow-up
Storage & Leftovers
- Best fresh: This burger is meant to be eaten right away while everything is hot and melty.
- Short-term storage: If needed, store cooked patties and bacon separately. Toast donuts and reassemble when ready.
- Freezer tip: Freeze patties raw or cooked (without cheese or donut) for meal prep.
More Recipes You’ll Love
Looking for more comfort food that breaks the rules in the best way?
- Dorito Casserole – bold, crunchy, cheesy
- Beer Cheese Dip – perfect with fries or pretzels
- Crockpot Nacho Dip – slow-cooked dip heaven
- Sheet Pan Quesadillas – quick and customizable
- Chicken Enchiladas – always a hit at the table
Final Thoughts
The Maple Bourbon Donut Bacon Burger with Candied Jalapeños isn’t for the faint of heart—it’s for those who like their meals a little wild, a little sweet, and unapologetically bold. Every bite is sweet, spicy, savory, and full of texture. Whether you’re showing off at your next cookout or just treating yourself to something unforgettable, this burger is the stuff of legend.
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