How The Doughnut Bacon Cheeseburger Got Its Name From An R&B Legend

The Doughnut Bacon Cheeseburger, a unique culinary creation, has an intriguing backstory tied to an R&B legend. This unconventional burger gained its name from soul singer Luther Vandross, who was known for his smooth voice and hit songs. Vandross reportedly had a fondness for replacing traditional hamburger buns with glazed doughnuts, creating a sweet and savory combination that captured the attention of food enthusiasts. This indulgent treat became popular at fairs and food festivals, and soon the name "Luther Burger" was coined in honor of Vandross's reputed love for this decadent dish. The burger typically features a beef patty topped with crispy bacon and melted cheese, all sandwiched between two glazed doughnuts. The juxtaposition of flavors and textures—sweet, salty, savory, and crispy—offers a memorable taste experience that has contributed to its cult following. While it may not be a staple on every restaurant menu, the Doughnut Bacon Cheeseburger remains a beloved novelty that pays homage to both culinary creativity and the legendary singer who inspired its name. The story behind this dish highlights the intersection of food culture and pop culture, showcasing how iconic personalities can leave their mark in unexpected ways.
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Who actually invented the Luther Burger?

It is widely believed that the Luther Burger was created by Luther Vandross, the celebrated singer-songwriter known for his numerous Grammy-winning hits during the peak of his career in the 1980s and 1990s. According to the legend, Vandross found himself without hamburger buns one day and decided to use a doughnut instead. This moment of inspiration led to the creation of a burger that has become as iconic as the artist himself. The story has gained such traction that the burger is commonly referred to by Vandross's name. However, it remains uncertain whether he actually invented the Luther Burger or if he was simply an enthusiastic admirer of it. While the true origins of the doughnut bacon cheeseburger are still debated, another celebrity has also claimed to have invented it.

Paula Deen, a prominent figure in Southern cuisine, has also asserted her claim to the creation of the doughnut bacon cheeseburger. In a 2013 appearance on Jay Leno's show, she recounted how she spontaneously replaced hamburger buns with a glazed doughnut during a 2008 episode of her popular cooking show, "Paula's Home Cooking." This led to the creation of the Lady's Brunch Burger, which features a hamburger patty topped with a fried egg and crispy bacon, all nestled between two glazed doughnuts. However, just months after her claim, Deen's sons refuted it, revealing that the burger was actually inspired by a recipe from a Minor League baseball food challenge that had been made available to the public in 2006.

The winning savory and sweet Luther Burger combo

The true origin of the Luther Burger may be uncertain, but the blend of salty, sweet, and savory flavors is undeniably exquisite. While smash burgers might just be thin beef patties, they truly take center stage in this sandwich. If you're preparing a Luther Burger at home, you can stack your smash burgers for an extra juicy bite. Crispy bacon adds a savory, umami kick, while a couple of slices of American cheese contribute a creamy, indulgent touch. The glazed doughnuts introduce a delightful sweetness and a fried bread element, resulting in an irresistibly delicious burger.

The combination of fat, salt, and sugar in the Luther Burger is what keeps fans coming back for more. Naturally, bacon enhances the flavor of nearly everything due to its own unique blend of these elements, but pairing it with the sweet, fried doughnut elevates your taste experience and stimulates the release of dopamine in your body—making each bite a little more joyful. The beef provides a hearty dose of protein to balance the flavors, creating a memorable Luther Burger experience that you won't soon forget.

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