Apple Butter Brie Grilled Cheese Recipe

Introduction

The Apple Butter Brie Grilled Cheese is a delightful blend of creamy Brie and sweet apple butter, perfectly complemented by the slight tartness of fresh apple slices. This sandwich offers a sophisticated twist on a classic comfort food, ideal for a cozy lunch or light dinner.

Ingredients

• 4 slices sourdough bread
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tablespoons apple butter
• 4 ounces Brie cheese, rind trimmed and sliced
• 1 small apple, thinly sliced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp) – optional
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves – optional

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat until ready.
2. Step 2: Spread a thin layer of softened butter on one side of each slice of sourdough bread.
3. Step 3: On the unbuttered sides of two bread slices, spread 1 tablespoon of apple butter evenly on each.
4. Step 4: Layer the Brie cheese slices evenly over the apple butter. If using, add thin slices of apple and sprinkle fresh thyme leaves on top.
5. Step 5: Place the remaining two bread slices on top with the buttered sides facing outward to form sandwiches.
6. Step 6: Cook the sandwiches in the skillet for 3 to 4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Step 7: Remove the grilled cheese sandwiches from the heat, slice in half, and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

• Use a mix of sharp cheddar with Brie for a more complex cheese flavor.
• Substitute apple butter with pear or fig preserves for a different fruity note.
• For extra crunch, add toasted walnuts or pecans inside the sandwich.
• If fresh thyme is unavailable, a pinch of dried thyme works well too.

Storage

Store leftover grilled cheese sandwiches wrapped in foil or an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to maintain crispiness and prevent the cheese from drying out. Avoid microwaving as it may make the bread soggy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of bread?

Yes, sturdy breads like ciabatta, multigrain, or whole wheat also work well, but sourdough’s tangy flavor pairs especially nicely with apple butter and Brie.

How do I prevent the sandwich from burning before the cheese melts?

Cook on medium to medium-low heat to ensure the bread browns slowly while allowing the cheese enough time to melt inside. Press gently but avoid high heat.

Apple Butter Brie Grilled Cheese Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 101 reviews

This Apple Butter Brie Grilled Cheese is a delicious twist on a classic sandwich, featuring creamy Brie cheese, sweet apple butter, and optional fresh apple slices and thyme for a perfect balance of flavors. Crispy sourdough bread is layered with buttery spread and cooked to golden perfection in a skillet, making an easy yet gourmet comfort food treat.

• Author: Joe
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 minutes
• Total Time: 18 minutes
• Yield: 2 sandwiches 1x
• Category: Sandwich
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Bread & Spreads

• 4 slices sourdough bread
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tablespoons apple butter

Cheese

• 4 ounces Brie cheese, rind trimmed and sliced

Optional Additions

• 1 small apple, thinly sliced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves

Instructions

1. Preheat Cooking Surface: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat to prepare for cooking the sandwiches evenly without burning the bread.
2. Prepare Bread: Spread a thin layer of softened unsalted butter on one side of each slice of sourdough bread to ensure a golden, crispy exterior when cooked.
3. Layer Spread and Cheese: On the unbuttered sides of two bread slices, spread 1 tablespoon of apple butter evenly on each to add sweetness and moisture.
4. Add Brie and Optional Ingredients: Place slices of Brie cheese over the apple butter on each slice. If desired, add thinly sliced apples and scatter fresh thyme leaves for extra flavor and freshness.
5. Assemble Sandwiches: Place the remaining bread slices on top of the layered slices, making sure the buttered sides face outward to achieve a crisp crust during cooking.
6. Cook Sandwiches: Place the assembled sandwiches onto the preheated skillet. Cook each side for 3 to 4 minutes, gently pressing with a spatula to help the cheese melt and create an even crust. Flip carefully to avoid spilling the filling.
7. Finish and Serve: Once both sides are golden brown and the Brie has melted, remove the sandwiches from the skillet. Slice each sandwich in half and serve immediately to enjoy the warm, melty goodness.

Notes

• Use ripe Brie cheese but trim the rind slightly for a milder flavor if preferred.
• Optional apple slices and thyme add a fresh and aromatic dimension but can be omitted if unavailable.
• Adjust cooking time slightly if your skillet runs hotter or cooler to prevent burning.
• Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
• This sandwich pairs well with a light green salad or a cup of warm cider.
• For a vegan version, substitute Brie with plant-based cheese and use vegan butter.

Keywords: Apple Butter Brie Grilled Cheese, grilled cheese sandwich, apple butter sandwich, Brie cheese recipe, fall sandwich, easy lunch, comfort food