Dinner

Monte Cristo Sandwich with Raspberry Preserves and Honey Mustard Recipe

ByElla Hart October 25, 2025October 25, 2025

Introduction

The Monte Cristo Sandwich is a decadent, deep-fried sandwich combining layers of turkey, ham, and cheese between slices of honey wheat bread. Crispy on the outside and melty on the inside, it’s perfect for a special lunch or comforting dinner.

The image shows three deep-fried sandwiches on a round white plate placed on a white marbled texture. Each sandwich has multiple layers visible inside; slices of pink ham, pale turkey or chicken meat, and yellow melted cheese are stacked between a light golden-brown, crispy fried outer crust. The layers inside are thin and neatly arranged, contrasting with the crunchy and textured fried outside. Around the sandwiches, light yellow potato chips add texture. A small white cup filled with dark red jelly sits on the plate’s edge, complementing the colors and textures. There is also a light dusting of powdered sugar on the plate and food, enhancing the look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

9 slices honey wheat bread
9 slices roasted turkey (thick cut deli meat preferred)
9 slices honey ham (thick cut deli meat preferred)
3 slices mild cheddar cheese
3 slices Swiss cheese
3 cups (375 g) all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons baking powder
½ teaspoon kosher salt
2 ⅔ cups water
2 large eggs (beaten)
Vegetable or canola oil (for deep frying)
½ cup (62.5 g) confectioners’ sugar
Red raspberry preserves (for dipping)
Honey mustard (optional, for dipping)

Instructions

Step 1: Assemble the sandwiches by layering one slice of bread, three slices of turkey, one slice of Swiss cheese, another slice of bread, three slices of ham, one slice of cheddar cheese, and a final slice of bread on top.
Step 2: Slice each sandwich diagonally and wrap tightly in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for 2 to 3 hours or up to overnight to let the sandwiches firm up for frying.
Step 3: Prepare the batter by combining the flour, baking powder, and kosher salt in a large bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk the water and eggs together.
Step 4: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and whisk until smooth and well combined. Set the batter aside while heating the oil.
Step 5: Heat about 2 inches of vegetable or canola oil in a large pot over medium heat until it reaches 325°F to 350°F.
Step 6: Remove the sandwich halves from the refrigerator and unwrap them. Dip each half into the batter, using your hands to coat thoroughly.
Step 7: Using metal tongs, carefully place each battered sandwich half into the hot oil. Hold it down gently to fully submerge, and fry until golden brown, about 4 to 5 minutes.
Step 8: Remove the fried sandwich halves from the oil and drain on paper towels. Repeat with remaining halves.
Step 9: Lightly sprinkle the fried sandwiches with confectioners’ sugar and serve warm with red raspberry preserves for dipping. Honey mustard can be offered as an optional dipping sauce.

Tips & Variations

For easier handling, chill the sandwiches thoroughly before dipping and frying to help them hold their shape.
Try swapping turkey for chicken or using different cheeses like Gruyère for a different flavor profile.
Serve with fresh fruit or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Storage

Store any leftover fried sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a toaster oven or skillet to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the bread soggy.

How to Serve

A white plate holds three deep-fried sandwiches with a golden brown, crispy outer layer. Two sandwiches are cut in half, showing several thin layers inside: pink ham, pale sliced turkey, melted yellow cheese, and light bread. The last sandwich is whole, showing its rough, crunchy fried coating. Behind the sandwiches are pale yellow potato chips and a small white bowl filled with dark red jelly. The plate sits on a white marbled textured surface with some crumbs scattered around. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of bread?

Yes, while honey wheat bread adds a nice sweetness, white or sourdough bread also work well for Monte Cristo sandwiches.

Is it okay to use premade pancake batter instead of homemade batter?

Yes, pancake batter can be used as a substitute. It will produce a slightly different texture but still delicious. Frying time may be closer to 4 minutes in this case.