Brie, Apple and Cranberry Grilled Cheese Recipe
Introduction
This Brie, Apple, and Cranberry Grilled Cheese is a delightful twist on the classic sandwich, combining creamy cheese, sweet-tart fruit, and crispy sourdough. Perfect for a cozy lunch or a fancy snack, it pairs beautifully with a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc.
Ingredients
- 4 sturdy slices sourdough bread (don’t use soft bread)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ⅓ cup Sauvignon Blanc
- 8 ounces chilled brie (rind removed), cut into thin slices
- 1 medium honeycrisp apple, cut into thin slices
- ½ cup whole berry cranberry sauce
Instructions
- Step 1: Butter the four slices of bread on one side. Then brush the other side of each slice with Sauvignon Blanc.
- Step 2: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place two slices of bread butter-side-down on the skillet. Top each with slices of brie, apple, and cranberry sauce. Cover each with the remaining bread slices, butter-side-up. Place a lid on top of the skillet.
- Step 3: Reduce heat to medium and let the sandwiches toast. When the cheese starts to melt, remove the lid and check the bottom of the sandwiches. Once golden brown, gently flip them and toast the other side until it’s golden brown as well.
- Step 4: Serve the sandwiches immediately, ideally with a glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc for a perfect match.
Tips & Variations
- Use a firm apple like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for a crisp texture and balanced tartness.
- If you prefer, swap cranberry sauce for fig jam to add a deeper sweetness.
- Remove the brie rind completely for a smoother melt and milder flavor.
- To toast evenly, press gently on the sandwiches with a spatula after flipping.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in a toaster oven to preserve the crispiness and prevent the cheese from overcooking.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other types of bread?
Sourdough works best because it holds up well and adds flavor, but you can use any sturdy, crusty bread. Avoid very soft or thin breads as they may become soggy.
Is it necessary to remove the brie rind?
Removing the rind is recommended for a creamier texture and milder taste, but you can leave it on if you enjoy the slightly earthy flavor it adds.
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Brie, Apple and Cranberry Grilled Cheese Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 sandwiches 1x
Description
A delightful Brie, Apple and Cranberry Grilled Cheese sandwich that perfectly balances creamy Brie cheese, crisp honeycrisp apple slices, and tangy whole berry cranberry sauce, all toasted between buttery sourdough bread slices brushed with Sauvignon Blanc for a sophisticated twist.
Ingredients
Bread and Butter
- 4 sturdy slices sourdough bread (avoid soft bread)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ⅓ cup Sauvignon Blanc
Filling
- 8 ounces chilled Brie cheese, rind removed and cut into thin slices
- 1 medium honeycrisp apple, cut into thin slices
- ½ cup whole berry cranberry sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the Bread: Butter one side of each of the four slices of sourdough bread. Then, brush the other side lightly with the Sauvignon Blanc wine to add a subtle fruity flavor to the bread exterior.
- Assemble the Sandwiches: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place two slices of the bread, butter-side-down, on the skillet. On each slice, layer the thin slices of chilled Brie, followed by the honeycrisp apple slices, and then spoon the whole berry cranberry sauce evenly over the top.
- Top and Cover: Place the remaining two slices of bread on top, butter-side-up. Cover the skillet with a lid to help the cheese melt and to trap heat for even cooking.
- Toast the Sandwiches: Lower the heat to medium and allow the sandwiches to toast on the bottom. When the cheese starts to melt, lift the lid and use a spatula to check the golden-brown color of the bottom. Once golden, carefully flip the sandwiches to toast the other side until it too is golden brown and the cheese is fully melted.
- Serve Immediately: Remove the sandwiches from the skillet. Serve hot and enjoy immediately, ideally paired with a glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc for a perfect tasting experience.
Notes
- Use sturdy sourdough bread to prevent sogginess and maintain structure.
- Removing the rind from Brie ensures a smoother melt and more delicate flavor.
- Brushing bread with Sauvignon Blanc adds a unique flavor contrast that complements the cheese and fruit.
- Maintain medium heat to avoid burning the bread before the cheese melts.
- Serve while warm to enjoy gooey melted cheese and crisp toasted bread.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Grilled Cheese Sandwich
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: brie grilled cheese, apple cranberry sandwich, sourdough grilled cheese, autumn sandwich, savory sweet sandwich
