Bourbon-Maple Brisket Grilled Cheese Wafflewich: The Ultimate Sweet & Savory Indulgence
Craving something bold, comforting, and totally unforgettable? This Bourbon-Maple Brisket Grilled Cheese Wafflewich is where smoky meets sweet, crispy meets melty, and every bite feels like a celebration. Whether you’re cooking for a fancy brunch or just want to elevate your sandwich game, this recipe is a guaranteed showstopper.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Layered flavor: Smoky brisket meets rich bourbon-maple glaze for the perfect sweet-savory bite.
- Cheesy goodness: Melted cheddar pulls everything together with creamy indulgence.
- Crispy exterior: Waffles or golden-buttered bread create a crispy shell you’ll crave.
- Highly customizable: Add pickled onions, jalapeños, or even a fried egg!
Ingredients
- 1 lb cooked brisket, shredded or sliced
- 1 cup bourbon (choose one with rich, warm notes)
- ½ cup pure maple syrup (avoid pancake syrup for best flavor)
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional but adds tang)
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- 8 slices of bread or 4 Belgian waffles
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp butter, for grilling
- Optional toppings: pickled onions, jalapeños, spicy mustard, fried egg
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Bourbon-Maple Glaze
In a small saucepan, combine:
- 1 cup bourbon
- ½ cup maple syrup
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional)
- Salt & pepper
Bring to a simmer over medium heat. Stir occasionally and cook for 10–15 minutes, or until the mixture slightly thickens into a glossy glaze.
2. Glaze the Brisket
Add the pre-cooked brisket directly into the glaze. Stir to coat thoroughly and let simmer for 5 more minutes. The meat should absorb the glaze and become warm, juicy, and flavorful.
3. Assemble the Sandwiches
If using bread:
- Butter one side of each slice.
- On the unbuttered side, add a layer of cheese, then a generous helping of bourbon-glazed brisket, and more cheese.
- Top with another slice (buttered side out).
If using waffles:
- Place one waffle on a clean surface.
- Add a layer of cheese, the glazed brisket, and more cheese.
- Top with another waffle.
4. Grill to Perfection
Heat a skillet or panini press over medium heat. Add your sandwich and grill for 3–5 minutes on each side, pressing slightly, until the outside is golden brown and crispy and the cheese is fully melted.
5. Serve & Enjoy
Serve hot, with extra maple glaze on the side, or drizzle over the top. Want more heat? Add a swirl of spicy mustard or some jalapeños.
Tips for the Best Wafflewich
- Use thick-sliced bread or Belgian-style waffles for structure.
- Let the brisket cool slightly before assembling to prevent soggy bread.
- Mix cheeses for a deeper flavor—cheddar + smoked gouda is amazing.
- Add crunch with thin apple slices or a bit of slaw inside the sandwich.
When to Serve This Sandwich
- Brunch centerpiece – Pair with a fried egg and cold brew.
- Game-day hero – Easy to serve and a total crowd-pleaser.
- Dinner upgrade – Serve with roasted veggies or a bold salad.
Final Thoughts
This Bourbon-Maple Brisket Grilled Cheese Wafflewich is not just a sandwich—it’s a flavor experience. It’s the kind of recipe that earns compliments, makes guests ask for seconds, and brings comfort with every single bite. Whether you’re using leftover brisket or smoking it fresh, this wafflewich will become a go-to for your indulgent cravings. Homemade Samoas Girl Scout Cookies