Making the Bacon Jam

1. Cook the bacon: Cut the bacon into small pieces and fry it in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat until crisp. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving some grease in the pan.
2. Sauté the onions: Add the sliced onions to the pan and cook them in the bacon grease until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Caramelize and simmer: Add the brown sugar, coffee, apple cider vinegar, and balsamic vinegar. Bring to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, until the liquid thickens into a jam-like consistency (about 20 minutes).
4. Finish: Return the bacon to the pan and stir to combine. Let cool, then use immediately or store in the refrigerator for later.

Preparing the Burger Patty

Divide and form: Divide the ground beef into 8 equal portions (about 2 ounces each). Gently form each portion into a thin patty, slightly wider than your burger buns.

1. The cheese pocket: On 4 patties, place a slice of American cheese. Top with a second patty and tightly pinch and seal the edges all the way around, ensuring the cheese is completely enclosed.
2. Season: Season the outside of the formed patties with salt and pepper.

Cooking the Burger

1. Preheat: Heat a grill or cast-iron skillet to medium-high.
2. Cook: Place the patties on the hot surface. For medium doneness, cook 3-4 minutes per side. Don’t press or move the patties while cooking – you want the cheese to get hot and melty without bursting out.
3. Check for doneness: Use an instant-read thermometer to confirm an internal temperature of 160°F.

Assembling the Burger

1. Toast buns (optional): Lightly toast your burger buns for added flavor and texture.
2. Build the base: Place a cooked patty on the bottom half of each bun.
3. The grand finale: Add a generous spoonful of bacon jam on top of the patty.
4. Add on the extras: Layer on your favorite toppings like lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, and any sauces your heart desires.