Maple Bacon Cheddar Toast (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Bread and Cheeses

01 - 8 slices thick-cut sourdough bread
02 - 113 g sharp cheddar cheese, grated
03 - 57 g smoked applewood cheese, grated
04 - 57 g mozzarella cheese, grated

→ Proteins and Flavorings

05 - 6 slices thick-cut applewood-smoked bacon
06 - 45 ml pure maple syrup
07 - 57 g unsalted butter
08 - 2.5 ml sea salt
09 - 1.25 ml black pepper
10 - 5 ml dijon mustard (optional)

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat a skillet or air fryer to medium heat (approximately 190°C for air fryer).
02 - Cook the applewood-smoked bacon until crispy, brushing with maple syrup during the final 2 minutes of cooking.
03 - Grate all cheeses and combine thoroughly in a bowl.
04 - Generously butter one side of each sourdough bread slice.
05 - Layer the cheese mixture and maple-glazed bacon between bread slices, ensuring buttered sides face outward.
06 - Cook sandwiches in the skillet for 3 to 4 minutes per side until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
07 - For the air fryer, cook sandwiches for 3 to 4 minutes, flipping halfway through the cook time.
08 - Allow sandwiches to rest for 2 minutes before slicing and serving to ensure optimal texture.

# Notes:

01 - Use room temperature cheese for even melting.
02 - Maintain medium-low heat to prevent burning while ensuring thorough melting.
03 - Cover the skillet with a lid to help cheese melt faster.
04 - Serve immediately for best texture and temperature.