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Apple Cheddar Bacon Breakfast Sandwich

Jessica T. Brown
Indulge in sweet and savory layers of apple, sharp cheddar, and crispy bacon on buttery croissants brushed with thyme-infused butter.
Quick to prepare and packed with protein and fiber, these sandwiches are a flavorful and satisfying breakfast or brunch option.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Breakfast, Brunch
Cuisine American
Servings 3

Equipment

  • 1 Small Mixing Bowl
  • 1 basting brush
  • 1 metal baking pan
  • 1 Sharp Knife
  • 1 cutting board

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons butter melted
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded
  • 1/2 Granny Smith apple thinly sliced (Honeycrisp or other tart apple works)
  • 8 slices bacon cooked crispy
  • 4 large croissants

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the Oven for Perfect Baking: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
    This moderate temperature ensures that your croissants become slightly crisp on the outside while warming the fillings evenly without burning the delicate pastry.
    While the oven heats, gather all your ingredients and equipment to streamline the assembly process.
    Using a metal baking pan will help distribute heat evenly and allow the croissants to toast lightly without sogginess.
  • Prepare the Thyme-Infused Butter: In a small mixing bowl, combine the melted butter with fresh thyme leaves.
    Stir thoroughly to ensure the aromatic thyme is evenly incorporated into the butter.
    This fragrant butter will be brushed on the croissant tops later, imparting a subtle herbal note that beautifully complements the sweet apples, sharp cheddar, and smoky bacon.
    Set this mixture aside for later use.
  • Slice and Prepare the Croissants: Carefully slice each croissant in half lengthwise using a sharp knife.
    Take your time to make a clean, even cut so the sandwich layers remain intact and the croissant doesn’t crumble.
    Arrange the bottom halves on a metal baking pan, leaving a little space between each sandwich for even heat circulation.
    This forms the base for your layered breakfast masterpiece.
  • Layer the Cheese, Apples, and Bacon: Begin layering the fillings on the bottom croissant halves.
    First, sprinkle a generous portion of shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the base.
    Next, arrange thinly sliced apple pieces in a single layer, ensuring every bite gets a sweet-tart contrast.
    Finally, place two slices of cooked crispy bacon on top of the apple.
    This layered approach balances flavors and textures, creating the ideal sweet, salty, and savory bite in every sandwich.
  • Assemble and Brush with Thyme Butter: Place the top halves of the croissants over the layered bottoms.
    Using a basting brush, generously coat the tops with the prepared thyme-infused butter.
    Be thorough but gentle—this ensures the buttery flavor seeps into the croissant during baking without dripping excessively.
    The thyme butter will enhance both aroma and taste, giving the sandwiches a golden, slightly crisp finish.
  • Bake Until Warm and Golden: Transfer the prepared baking pan to the preheated oven. Bake the sandwiches for 7–10 minutes.
    Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes—the tops should turn slightly golden and crisp, the cheese should melt fully, and the sandwich should be warmed throughout.
    Avoid overbaking, as the croissants can dry out or the cheese may overcook.
  • Serve Immediately and Enjoy: Remove the pan from the oven carefully using oven mitts.
    Allow the sandwiches to cool for 1–2 minutes, then serve immediately while warm and melty.
    The combination of crisp croissant, gooey cheddar, smoky bacon, and sweet-tart apple is best enjoyed fresh.
    Pair with a hot coffee, tea, or fresh juice for a complete breakfast experience.
    Any leftovers can be wrapped tightly and stored for later enjoyment, though the sandwiches are at their peak right out of the oven.

Notes

  • Use fresh, high-quality croissants for the best flavor and texture; day-old croissants can also be lightly toasted.
  • Thinly slice the apple to ensure it warms evenly without making the sandwich soggy.
  • Cook bacon until crisp but not burnt to maintain a perfect balance of flavor and texture.
  • Fresh thyme can be substituted with dried thyme if necessary, but reduce the amount slightly to avoid overpowering.
  • Brush the croissant tops generously with thyme butter for optimal aroma and golden color.
  • Feel free to swap apple varieties—Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala all work well depending on your preferred sweetness and tartness.