The New Englandah Burgah

I'm one of those people that likes to dip bacon or sausage in maple syrup.  When I spotted this recipe, I knew that I've found something worthwhile trying to create at the launchpad. From Food52 via BuzzFeed.
The New Englandah Burgah
By Chef Jason Royal
July 19, 2010

Author Notes: This came from my mind when I was a student at The Culinary Institute of America. We had to create a menu item based on where we lived. Since I am from New England I created this burger with ingredients that you can find or originate in New England. This was a hit at both the CIA and at the restaurant I worked at. - Chef Jason Royal

Food52 Review: We were intrigued not only by the name of this burger, but by the juxtaposition of savory and sweet. This could easily go too far, but Chef Jason manages to rein it in, inspiring harmony rather than a cacophony of flavors. The burger themselves have a faint sweetness from the maple syrup, and this is enhanced by the grilled apples; the salty crunch of the bacon and the tang of cheddar provide the perfect counterpoints. This is a burger that requires a ravenous appetite and begs to be eaten in generous mouthfuls, each including all of the different components. - The Editors

Makes 2 large burgers

• 1 pound 80-85% lean Black Angus ground beef 
• 1/4 cup Pure New England maple syrup, plus more for basting 
• 4 thick slices applewood smoked bacon 
• 1 MacIntosh apple 
• 4 slices Vermont cheddar cheese 
• 2 Bulkie rolls 
• Salt and pepper to taste 
• 2 bottles blueberry beer

1. In a medium bowl, combine the beef, 1/4 cup maple syrup, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix well using your hands. Form into 2 8-ounce patties. Set aside in the refrigerator. 
2. Cook the bacon on the grill, in a skillet, or in the oven. Peel and slice the apple. Place in small bowl and sprinkle lemon juice over the slices to prevent browning. 
3. Place the apple slices on grill and cook for about one minute on each side. Remove and set aside. 
4. Grill the burgers over high heat, turn after 3 or 4 minutes and move to a cooler part of the grill. Drizzle some maple syrup over the burgers as they cook. Toast the buns as the burgers cook. 
5. When the burgers are cooked to your liking, take two slices or more of bacon and place on top of each burger. Arrange some apple slices on top of the bacon. 
6. Place a slice of cheese on top of each burger, cover the grill and let melt for about a minute. 
7. Place the burgers on the buns. 
8. Serve with blueberry beer. 
9. Enjoy.