Bourbon Maple Brisket Wafflewich

This Bourbon Maple Brisket Grilled Cheese Wafflewich does more than offer comfort food vibes—it turns classic slow-cooked brisket into a melty grilled cheese pressed between crispy golden waffles. Born from a weekend craving for something indulgent yet comforting, this recipe is my go-to for impressing friends and family at brunch or a game night. The scent of bourbon and maple drifting through the kitchen always draws a crowd.

The first time I shared this wafflewich at a family weekend, there were no leftovers. Everyone was surprised by how well the sweet maple and smoky bourbon played with sharp cheddar and buttery waffles.

Ingredients

• Brisket: Choose one pound of well-marbled brisket for tenderness and rich flavor. Look for even marbling and bright red color
• Bourbon: Adds depth and a subtle smokiness. Opt for a mid-range quality bourbon you would enjoy sipping
• Maple syrup: Brings sweetness and balances the hearty brisket. Use pure maple syrup for the richest flavor
• Bread: Go with a hearty sandwich bread. Sourdough or country white hold up best to grilling and filling
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully and packs a bold tang. Freshly shred for best results and creaminess
• Waffles: Homemade or quality frozen waffles both work. Thicker Belgian-style waffles help hold everything together
• Butter: Softened butter for spreading gives golden grilled sandwiches with a crisp exterior

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Brisket:

Nestle the brisket into your slow cooker then pour in the bourbon and maple syrup. Set to low and let it cook for about eight hours until it becomes so tender it can easily be shredded with two forks

Shred the Brisket:

Once the brisket is fully cooked transfer it to a cutting board and shred into bite-sized pieces making sure to capture all the flavorful juices

Build the Sandwiches:

Heat a skillet over medium heat. Spread a generous amount of butter on one side of each bread slice. Place a slice butter side down in the skillet then layer on the shredded cheddar cheese followed by a pile of warm brisket. Top with another slice of bread butter side up

Grill the Sandwiches:

Cook each sandwich until the bottom is crisp and golden brown. Flip carefully and continue until the other side is golden and the cheese has melted thoroughly. Use a spatula to gently press the sandwiches as they cook for even crispness

Repeat and Finish:

Continue assembling and grilling sandwiches until you have four total. Keep them warm by placing on a sheet tray in a low oven if needed

Heat the Waffles:

While grilling the sandwiches prepare the waffles according to package directions or if homemade aim for a fresh batch at this stage so they are warm and crisp

Assemble the Wafflewiches:

Once the ingredients are ready, place one grilled cheese sandwich between two waffles for each serving. Press gently so everything melds

Serve:

Slice in half if you wish and serve hot. The combination of smoky brisket sweet maple tangy cheese and crispy waffles is best enjoyed immediately

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Seeing my kids discover the goodness of brisket tucked inside a cheesy sandwich was a kitchen highlight for me. My favorite part is how the maple syrup caramelizes the meat and makes this dish truly memorable. Every time I make this I am reminded of lazy Sunday mornings when we would all crowd around the table grabbing the crispiest corner piece.

Storage Tips

If you have leftover brisket store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Grilled sandwiches can be wrapped in foil and reheated in the oven to retain their crispy texture. Leftover waffles can be frozen and popped straight into a toaster when you need them. To avoid sogginess do not assemble the wafflewiches until you are ready to eat.

Ingredient Substitutions

Pulled pork or rotisserie chicken can work in place of brisket for a quicker version. Swap bourbon with apple cider for a kid-friendly twist or use honey if you are out of maple syrup. For cheese try a blend of cheddar with fontina or gouda for extra meltiness and flavor depth.

Serving Suggestions

A crunchy pickle spear and a drizzle of hot honey on the side really pop with the richness of these wafflewiches. Serve with roasted sweet potatoes or a simple green salad to balance out the meal. This dish also makes an epic brunch plate with a fried egg on top for even more decadent brunch vibes.

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Let these Bourbon Maple Brisket Grilled Cheese Wafflewiches bring a little bit of brunch magic to your table. Play around with fillings and extras, and do not be surprised if they become a much-requested favorite. Served hot and fresh, nothing beats that gooey-filling-meets-crispy-edges satisfaction.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How long should the brisket cook for optimal tenderness?

Slow cook the brisket on low for about 8 hours until it easily shreds with a fork.

→ Can regular bread be substituted for the grilled cheese layer?

Yes, use any sturdy sandwich bread that toasts well with butter and holds the fillings.

→ What kind of cheese pairs best in this sandwich?

Shredded cheddar cheese offers a sharp, creamy contrast, but gouda or Swiss also work nicely.

→ Do homemade or frozen waffles work better?

Either option works. Use homemade for extra texture, or frozen for convenience and quick assembly.

→ What are tips for getting crispy bread and melted cheese?

Butter both sides of the bread generously and cook over medium heat until golden with gooey cheese.

→ Is there a non-alcoholic alternative to bourbon?

For a similar depth, use apple juice with a splash of liquid smoke in place of bourbon.