When the sun begins to set and the aroma of a filling meal is wafting through the kitchen, there’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of crafting a gourmet sandwich at home. Enter my Spicy Maple Candied Avocado BLT Sandwich—an elevated twist on a classic that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary dining experience. The smoky-sweet hit of candied bacon meets the creaminess of ripe avocado, all nestled between crunchy, buttery sourdough. Topped with quick-marinated heirloom tomatoes and a rich garlic herb aioli, this sandwich is not just hearty—it’s a celebration of flavor in every bite.
Picture yourself assembling this delightful creation after a long day, savoring each layer as you take a bite. It’s a satisfying remedy against fast food fatigue, perfect for impressing family or indulging yourself. Whether you’re packing lunch or hosting friends, this Avocado BLT will leave cravings satisfied and taste buds talking. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how easy it is to elevate your sandwich game!
Why is this Avocado BLT Sandwich a must-try?
Elevated Experience: This is not just any sandwich; it’s your favorite BLT transformed with decadent, spicy maple candied bacon and creamy garlic aioli.
Bursting with Flavor: Each layer provides a unique flavor explosion—from the savory bacon to the fresh heirloom tomatoes and rich avocado.
Quick and Simple: All it takes is a little prep and minimal cooking to create a masterpiece that rivals gourmet cafés.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether for lunch, dinner, or a casual gathering, this sandwich always impresses.
Customizable Goodness: Adjust the toppings and proteins to make it your own; the possibilities are endless!
Experience this delightful creation and beat the mundane fast food routine with every delicious bite!
Avocado BLT Sandwich Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need to create this scrumptious sandwich!
For the Bread
- Sourdough Bread – Provides a slightly tangy flavor and sturdy base; can substitute with Italian or country white bread.
- Unsalted Butter – For pan toasting the bread, ensuring a crispy texture; replace with olive oil for a dairy-free option.
For the Filling
- Green Lettuce – Adds crunch and freshness; other greens like spinach or arugula can be used as substitutes.
- Ripe Avocados – Creamy texture enhances the sandwich; use guacamole if short on time.
- Heirloom Tomatoes – Offers juicy, sweet flavor; can substitute with regular ripe tomatoes for a different taste.
For the Marinade
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil – For marinating tomatoes, provides richness; any quality oil will work well.
- Dried Italian Seasoning – Adds depth of flavor; fresh herbs can also replace it for a more vibrant taste.
For the Candied Bacon
- Thick-Cut Bacon – Essential for the candied texture; turkey bacon serves as a good alternative for lighter options.
- Maple Syrup – Sweetens and glazes the bacon; brown sugar is an acceptable substitute for a different sweetness.
- Cayenne Pepper – Adds spice; adjust to taste or omit for a milder flavor.
For the Aioli
- Mayonnaise – Base for aioli; substitute with yogurt or a vegan mayo for a lighter option.
- Fresh Garlic – Grated to incorporate a potent, aromatic flavor; garlic powder can be an alternative for convenience.
- Lemon Juice – Brightens the aioli with acidity; vinegar can also be used as a substitute.
- Chopped Fresh Basil or Parsley – Freshens the aioli, contributing herbal notes; any fresh herbs can work beautifully.
With these ingredients at hand, you’re already on your way to making the irresistible Avocado BLT Sandwich that everyone will love!
How to Make Avocado BLT Sandwich
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Prepare the Candied Bacon: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Lay thick-cut bacon on a lined baking sheet and brush generously with a mixture of maple syrup and cayenne pepper. Bake for about 20 minutes until crispy and caramelized.
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Marinate Tomatoes: Slice the heirloom tomatoes and drizzle them with extra virgin olive oil. Season with dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Allow them to marinate for 10 minutes to enhance their flavor.
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Make the Aioli: In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, grated fresh garlic, lemon juice, and your choice of chopped basil or parsley. Mix until all ingredients are well blended, creating a creamy garlic herb aioli.
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Toast the Bread: Melt unsalted butter in a griddle pan over medium heat. Place slices of sourdough bread on the pan, toasting one side until it’s beautifully golden brown and crisp.
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Assemble the Sandwich: Spread a generous layer of aioli on the toasted side of one bread slice. Top with a layer of green lettuce, marinated heirloom tomatoes, candied bacon, and slices of ripe avocado. Finish with another slice of toasted bread spread with aioli on its inner side.
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Serve Immediately: Slice your delicious sandwich in half and enjoy right away! Pair it with a side of fries, salad, or soup for a complete feast.
Optional: Add a sprinkle of microgreens for a fresh touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Avocado BLT Sandwich Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to pick and choose any of these delightful twists for your sandwich adventure!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with olive oil for toasting, or use vegan mayo for the aioli.
- Spicy Kick: Add a few slices of jalapeño or a drizzle of sriracha for an exciting heat that livens up every bite.
- Protein Boost: Layer in deli turkey or ham on top of the candied bacon for an extra protein punch that’s hard to resist.
- Vegan Delight: Swap the bacon for grilled zucchini or eggplant slices, and use tofu for a heartier, plant-based option.
- Herb Variation: Try fresh dill or cilantro in your aioli for a different twist that pairs perfectly with the creamy avocado.
- Sourdough Swap: Use whole grain or gluten-free bread to cater to dietary preferences without sacrificing flavor.
- Crunch Factor: Toss in some crispy fried onions or roasted nuts to add an unexpected texture that intrigues the taste buds.
- Sweet Tomato: Consider grilling or roasting the heirloom tomatoes to enhance their sweetness and add an extra layer of warmth.
Each of these variations lets you customize your Avocado BLT Sandwich to fit your taste or dietary needs, making it your very own masterpiece!
How to Store and Freeze Avocado BLT Sandwich
Fridge: Store any leftover assembled sandwiches in an airtight container for up to 2 days. To maintain freshness, consider separating wet ingredients like aioli and tomatoes.
Freezer: While it’s best to freeze individual components, you can freeze the candied bacon in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before assembling the sandwich.
Reheating: For the best results, reheat the bacon in a skillet until crispy. If you need to reheat the assembled sandwich, lightly toast it in a skillet over medium heat to restore the crunch.
Make-Ahead: You can prepare the bacon and aioli a day in advance; store them separately in the fridge. Assemble your Avocado BLT Sandwich just before serving for optimal taste and texture.
What to Serve with Avocado BLT Sandwich?
Imagine enjoying a vibrant meal where every bite offers a delightful mix of flavors and textures to complement your gourmet sandwich.
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Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: The sweetness of the fries contrasts beautifully with the savory notes of the sandwich, creating a perfect balance.
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Fresh Green Salad: A light, refreshing salad with a citrus dressing enhances the richness of the avocado blt, offering a crisp and zesty side.
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Classic Tomato Soup: The warm, creamy soup pairs beautifully with the crispy sandwich, adding comfort that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day.
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Pickled Cucumbers: Their tangy crunch adds an extra layer of flavor and texture, cutting through the richness of the creamy aioli.
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Chips and Salsa: A side of zesty chips brings a satisfying crunch, while the fresh salsa adds a burst of flavor that brightens every bite.
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Iced Lemonade: This refreshing beverage provides a delightful contrast, quenching your thirst and complementing the savory elements of the sandwich.
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Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds a sweet, refreshing end to the meal, balancing out the savory components of your sandwich delightfully.
Make Ahead Options
These Spicy Maple Candied Avocado BLT Sandwiches are perfect for busy meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the candied bacon and garlic herb aioli up to 3 days in advance, ensuring a time-saving advantage when you’re ready to serve. Store the bacon and aioli separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their quality. Additionally, marinate the heirloom tomatoes for up to 24 hours before assembly for extra flavor enhancement. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply toast your sourdough bread, layer on the aioli, lettuce, tomatoes, avocado, and candied bacon, and voila—you’ll have a gourmet sandwich that’s just as delicious as if you had made it from scratch that day!
Expert Tips for the Best Avocado BLT Sandwich
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Choose Quality Bread: Always opt for fresh sourdough or an alternative like Italian bread; stale bread will compromise the texture and taste of your Avocado BLT Sandwich.
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Crispy Bacon Trick: Use thick-cut bacon to maintain its structure and crunch even after glazing. This ensures each bite is packed with flavor!
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Marinate for Flavor: Allow the tomatoes to marinate for at least 10 minutes; this enhances their taste and adds juiciness to your sandwich.
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Perfect Aioli Consistency: Don’t skimp on mixing the aioli well; a smooth, creamy texture will elevate the entire sandwich experience.
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Toast with Care: For the best results, toast the bread in a skillet with butter, giving it a perfectly golden brown crust; this enhances the sandwich’s overall richness.
Avocado BLT Sandwich Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe avocados?
Absolutely! Look for avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure, indicating they are ripe. The skin should be dark green or black, but avoid any with significant dark spots or dents, as they may be overripe or damaged.
How should I store leftover Avocado BLT Sandwiches?
After enjoying your delicious sandwich, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For the freshest taste, I recommend separating the aioli and marinated tomatoes from the rest of the sandwich until ready to eat.
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Can I freeze components of the Avocado BLT Sandwich?
Yes, the candied bacon can be frozen! Place it in a freezer-safe bag and it will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, simply thaw it in the refrigerator and then reheat on a skillet to restore its crispy texture. However, I advise against freezing the assembled sandwich; the bread won’t maintain its quality once thawed.
What if my aioli is too runny?
Very! If you find the aioli isn’t thick enough, try adding a bit more mayonnaise to achieve your desired consistency. It’s essential to mix it well until smooth. If you’re short on mayonnaise, you can whisk in some extra grated garlic or fresh herbs for added flavor and texture.
Are there any allergens in the Avocado BLT Sandwich?
Most definitely, this sandwich contains gluten, dairy, and eggs due to the bread, butter, and mayonnaise. For a dairy-free option, use olive oil instead of butter and vegan mayo. Always check labels if you have specific allergies, especially concerning bacon alternatives or pre-made sauces.
Can I customize the ingredients for dietary needs?
Absolutely! This sandwich is versatile. For a vegetarian option, consider replacing the bacon with grilled vegetables or tempeh bacon. If you’re watching your carb intake, you could use lettuce wraps or low-carb bread instead of sourdough. The more the merrier when it comes to customization!
Elevate Your Lunch: Spicy Avocado BLT Sandwich Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F. Lay thick-cut bacon on a lined baking sheet and brush generously with a mixture of maple syrup and cayenne pepper. Bake for about 20 minutes until crispy and caramelized.
- Slice the heirloom tomatoes and drizzle them with extra virgin olive oil. Season with dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Allow them to marinate for 10 minutes to enhance their flavor.
- In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, grated fresh garlic, lemon juice, and your choice of chopped basil or parsley. Mix until all ingredients are well blended, creating a creamy garlic herb aioli.
- Melt unsalted butter in a griddle pan over medium heat. Place slices of sourdough bread on the pan, toasting one side until it’s beautifully golden brown and crisp.
- Spread a generous layer of aioli on the toasted side of one bread slice. Top with a layer of green lettuce, marinated heirloom tomatoes, candied bacon, and slices of ripe avocado. Finish with another slice of toasted bread spread with aioli on its inner side.
- Slice your delicious sandwich in half and enjoy right away! Pair it with a side of fries, salad, or soup for a complete feast.