Apple Cheddar Waffle Sandwich

The Apple Cheddar Waffle Sandwich brings a delicious twist to traditional grilled cheese. Combining crisp, thin apple slices and gooey cheddar cheese inside golden, toasty waffles, this recipe is made even better with a drizzle of maple dijon sauce. It’s a fusion of sweet and savory that transforms simple ingredients into a comforting masterpiece.

Perfect for brunch, lunch, or even a quirky dinner, this sandwich is loved by both kids and adults alike. It’s a quick-fix meal with gourmet vibes, made in under 10 minutes. Serve with fresh fruit or a warm bowl of tomato soup for the ultimate cozy meal experience.

Full Recipe:

2 waffles (homemade or frozen, cooked)
1/4 cup sharp or mild cheddar cheese, thick shredded (Borden preferred)

1/2 apple, thinly sliced (Fuji or Honeycrisp recommended)
1 tbsp dijon mustard (whole grain if possible)
1 tbsp maple syrup

Directions:

Preheat a panini press or counter-top griddle to medium heat and spray with nonstick spray (coconut oil recommended).

In a small bowl, mix together the dijon mustard and maple syrup to form the maple dijon sauce.
Lay both waffles flat and spread half the sauce on the inside of each.
On one waffle, sprinkle half the shredded cheddar cheese, then layer the apple slices evenly.

Top with the remaining cheese and cover with the second waffle (sauce side down).
Place the sandwich on the heated griddle or press and close. Cook for about 5 minutes, until waffles are golden brown and cheese is melted.
Cut the sandwich in half and serve warm.

Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 5 minutes | Total Time: 10 minutes
Kcal: 235 kcal | Servings: 1 sandwich

History and Origin

While the origins of the grilled cheese sandwich are widely debated, the combination of bread and melted cheese dates back centuries. In the United States, the grilled cheese sandwich became popular in the early 20th century, especially during the Great Depression, due to its affordability and simplicity. The waffle, however, has a much older history, dating back to the Middle Ages. Originally cooked over an open fire in cast iron molds, waffles have evolved into a breakfast classic that’s beloved around the world.

The Apple Cheddar Waffle Sandwich as we know it is a more modern creation, combining the warmth and nostalgia of grilled cheese with the heartiness of waffles. This dish likely emerged from the growing trend of reinventing comfort foods, such as grilled cheese, by using waffles in place of traditional bread. The addition of apples and maple syrup harkens to the flavors of autumn, a season that celebrates the harvest of crisp apples and the sweetness of maple syrup. Combining these ingredients into a sandwich was a natural progression for adventurous home cooks looking to elevate a familiar dish into something a little more unique.

Variations and Adaptations

As with many classic recipes, the Apple Cheddar Waffle Sandwich can be easily adapted to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Here are a few variations to try:

Cheese Varieties: While cheddar cheese is the classic choice for this sandwich, you can easily swap it for other types of cheese. Gouda or brie offer a more creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture, while sharp blue cheese adds a tangy punch. If you prefer a milder flavor, mozzarella or even cream cheese can create a rich, smooth sandwich.

Fruit Options: Apples are the obvious fruit pairing with cheddar, but there’s room for exploration here too. Pears, which have a similar texture and sweetness to apples, work wonderfully in this sandwich. You can also try using figs, which provide a deeper, more complex sweetness that complements the salty cheese.
Bread Choices: If you don’t have waffles on hand or want a gluten-free option, you can use gluten-free waffles or swap in a sturdy bread like sourdough or whole-grain bread. The goal is to have a sturdy base that will hold up to the gooey cheese and fruit.
Maple Dijon Twist: The maple dijon sauce adds a unique sweet and tangy flavor, but if you want something spicier, consider replacing the dijon mustard with spicy brown mustard or even horseradish for an extra kick. You could also use honey instead of maple syrup for a sweeter finish.

Vegan Version: For those following a vegan diet, simply substitute the cheese for a plant-based variety and use a vegan waffle. The maple dijon sauce is already vegan-friendly, making this a great option for plant-based eaters.

Nutritional Information

The Apple Cheddar Waffle Sandwich is not only delicious but also packs a decent nutritional punch. Below is a breakdown of the key nutritional information for the dish, assuming it’s made with standard ingredients like cheddar cheese and regular waffles:

Calories: 235 kcal (per serving)
Carbohydrates: 29g
Protein: 8g

Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 30mg

Sodium: 377mg
Potassium: 97mg
Fiber: 2g

Sugar: 9g
Vitamin A: 285 IU
Vitamin C: 4.2 mg

Calcium: 204mg
Iron: 0.4mg

As you can see, this sandwich is a good source of protein, primarily from the cheese, and provides a decent amount of calcium, which is essential for bone health. The apples contribute a small amount of dietary fiber, and the maple syrup adds a bit of natural sweetness, though the sugar content is moderate. It’s a balanced treat that’s rich in flavor and relatively easy to incorporate into a well-rounded diet, though it’s best enjoyed as an occasional indulgence.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This Apple Cheddar Waffle Sandwich is versatile when it comes to pairing with sides and drinks. Here are some creative ideas to elevate your meal:

Sides: To balance out the richness of the sandwich, pair it with fresh fruit slices, like more apples or pears, or even a green salad with a tangy vinaigrette. You could also serve it with some crispy sweet potato fries or a light vegetable soup, such as a roasted tomato or butternut squash soup.
Drinks: For a refreshing drink, pair this sandwich with a crisp, cold apple cider, which complements the fruity flavor of the apples in the sandwich. If you prefer a hot beverage, a cup of black tea or coffee will contrast nicely with the sweetness of the sandwich. For an alcoholic option, try a light white wine or a cider-based cocktail.
Breakfast or Brunch: While this sandwich is fantastic as a lunch or dinner option, it also makes a great breakfast or brunch dish. Serve it alongside some scrambled eggs or a vegetable frittata for a well-rounded meal.

Tips and Tricks for Success

Grill the Waffles to Perfection: Whether you’re using homemade or frozen waffles, make sure they’re golden and crispy before you start assembling your sandwich. This will prevent them from becoming soggy once the cheese melts.
Choose the Right Apples: Not all apples are created equal for this sandwich. Opt for apples that have a good balance of sweetness and tartness, like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala. These varieties hold up well when grilled and provide just the right contrast to the richness of the cheese.
Even Cheese Distribution: To ensure the cheese melts evenly, be sure to shred it well and spread it out evenly on the waffles. This ensures each bite is as gooey and cheesy as possible.

Experiment with Sauces: If you find that the maple dijon sauce isn’t quite your thing, experiment with other spreads, like a fig jam, apple butter, or even a balsamic glaze to give the sandwich a new flavor profile.

Potential Health Benefits

The Apple Cheddar Waffle Sandwich may not be a “health food” in the strictest sense, but it does contain several ingredients with potential health benefits:

Apples are a great source of fiber, particularly in their skins, which aids in digestion and supports heart health. They also contain antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation in the body.
Cheddar cheese is rich in protein and calcium, which supports muscle health and bone strength. It also contains conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), a compound that may help improve body composition and fat metabolism.
Maple syrup is a natural sweetener that contains small amounts of vitamins and minerals, including manganese and zinc. While still a sugar, it’s a better option than refined sugars, providing a bit of nutritional value along with its sweetness.

Conclusion

The Apple Cheddar Waffle Sandwich is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something extraordinary. With its combination of warm, gooey cheese, crisp apples, and waffles, all drizzled with a maple dijon sauce, it’s a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors. Whether you’re serving it for lunch, dinner, or brunch, this sandwich will surely become a favorite in your household. So why not give it a try? With its easy preparation and unforgettable taste, the Apple Cheddar Waffle Sandwich is a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.