If you’re ready to fall in love with a fresh, exciting twist on comfort food, let me introduce you to the Cinnamon Brie Apple Grilled Cheese. With melty brie, crisp apples, sweet honey, and a kiss of cinnamon nestled between two buttery slices of bread, this sandwich is pure joy in every bite. It’s cozy, slightly unexpected, and absolutely perfect for sharing—or savoring all to yourself when you need a little culinary pick-me-up.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple yet standout ingredients is all it takes to create a memorable Cinnamon Brie Apple Grilled Cheese. Each component brings something special, whether it’s a creamy texture, a bite of sweetness, or the irresistible aroma of warm cinnamon.
- Sourdough or Brioche Bread (4 slices): The sturdy slices become beautifully golden and are perfect for holding all those luscious fillings.
- Brie Cheese (6 ounces): Soft, rich, and gloriously melty, brie lends a creamy decadence that makes this grilled cheese extra luxurious.
- Apple (1 medium, such as Honeycrisp or Fuji): Thinly sliced apples add a juicy crunch and a hint of natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with the cheese and honey.
- Unsalted Butter (1 tablespoon): Softened butter ensures the bread crisps up just right and turns a gorgeous golden brown as it cooks.
- Honey (1 tablespoon): A drizzle of honey brings floral sweetness, tying together the cheese, fruit, and cinnamon effortlessly.
- Ground Cinnamon (1/4 teaspoon): Cinnamon adds warmth and a cozy aroma that transports this sandwich from everyday to unforgettable.
- Pinch of Salt: Just enough salt to balance all the flavors and make them sing.
How to Make Cinnamon Brie Apple Grilled Cheese
Step 1: Mix Honey, Cinnamon, and Salt
Start by combining the honey, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. Stir until everything is well blended. This sweet-smoky spread is the secret that sets the Cinnamon Brie Apple Grilled Cheese apart from the rest, infusing every bite with flavor.
Step 2: Assemble the Sandwiches
Lay out your slices of sourdough or brioche on a clean surface. Spread the honey-cinnamon mixture evenly on one side of all four slices. You want to be generous so each bite gets that sweet warmth. On two of the slices, layer the brie and top with the thin apple slices. Place the remaining bread slices on top, honey-side facing in.
Step 3: Butter the Bread
Take your softened butter and slather it on the outside of each sandwich. This is your golden ticket to crunchy, buttery perfection—don’t be shy.
Step 4: Grill the Sandwiches
Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Once it’s warm, place the sandwiches down gently and let them cook for 3–4 minutes per side. Press lightly with a spatula for that lovely, even browning. The bread should turn crisp and golden, and the brie should transform into gooey, melty bliss.
Step 5: Rest, Slice, and Serve
Once they’re beautifully toasted, remove the Cinnamon Brie Apple Grilled Cheese sandwiches from the pan. Give them a minute to rest—this helps the cheese settle slightly and keeps things tidy when you slice in. Cut and serve immediately for maximum enjoyment!
How to Serve Cinnamon Brie Apple Grilled Cheese
Garnishes
Add a little flourish to your presentation with some favorite garnishes. A light sprinkle of extra cinnamon, a drizzle of honey, or a few chopped walnuts can be just the finishing touch your Cinnamon Brie Apple Grilled Cheese deserves. If you’re feeling fancy, a few fresh thyme leaves can brighten up the plate.
Side Dishes
This sandwich pairs brilliantly with light, fresh sides. Try a crisp arugula salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette or bowl of warm, comforting soup—like tomato basil or butternut squash. The savory-sweet flavors of the grilled cheese balance everything out, making a simple lunch feel special.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider slicing your sandwiches into thin strips or triangles for an elevated look on a board with fresh apple slices and a handful of nuts. You could even serve them as party-friendly bites alongside a sweet mustard dip. The possibilities are limited only by your imagination!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any Cinnamon Brie Apple Grilled Cheese leftovers (not likely, but possible!), let them cool completely first. Wrap the sandwiches tightly in foil or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The texture changes a bit, but the flavors stay fantastic.
Freezing
While fresh is best, these sandwiches can be frozen if needed. After cooling, wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap and then foil. Store them in the freezer for up to one month. For best results, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To bring back that crispy exterior and gooey center, reheat the sandwich in a skillet over medium-low heat, pressing gently on both sides until warmed through. For convenience, you can also use a toaster oven or air fryer, but avoid microwaving or you’ll lose all that lovely crunch.
FAQs
What’s the best type Lunch
Honeycrisp and Fuji apples are fantastic because they’re both sweet and crisp, which pairs perfectly with the melty brie and aromatic cinnamon. Really though, any apple you enjoy snacking on will work well in this recipe.
Can I use a different cheese if I don’t have brie?
Absolutely! Brie creates that luscious melt, but you can also try Camembert, fontina, or even mozzarella for a yummy variation. Just remember that each cheese will bring its own unique flavor and texture.
How do I make this sandwich extra crispy?
Use a cast-iron skillet and cook the sandwiches on lower heat for a longer time—this ensures a deep, golden crust without burning or drying out the bread. A little extra butter on the outside also doesn’t hurt!
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Definitely! Swap the regular bread for your favorite gluten-free sourdough or brioche alternative. The rest of the Cinnamon Brie Apple Grilled Cheese ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Is it okay to leave the rind on the brie?
Yes! The rind on brie is completely edible and adds a subtle earthy flavor and additional creaminess. If you prefer, you can remove it—just follow your own taste and texture preferences.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been searching for a sandwich that mixes comfort with a little culinary adventure, Cinnamon Brie Apple Grilled Cheese is about to become your new favorite. It’s simple, satisfying, and always a crowd-pleaser. Treat yourself to this recipe soon—your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Cinnamon Brie Apple Grilled Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Lunch
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the perfect blend of sweet and savory with this Cinnamon Brie Apple Grilled Cheese. Slices of brie cheese, crisp apple, and a hint of cinnamon nestled between buttery, honey-kissed bread slices make this sandwich a comforting treat for any time of day.
Ingredients
Bread:
- 4 slices sourdough or brioche bread
Cheese:
- 6 ounces brie cheese, sliced (rind on or off per preference)
Apple:
- 1 medium apple (like Honeycrisp or Fuji), thinly sliced
Additional:
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Mix Honey Cinnamon Spread: In a small bowl, combine honey, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.
- Prepare Sandwiches: Spread the honey mixture on one side of each bread slice. Layer brie and apple slices on two bread slices. Top with the remaining bread slices, honey-side in, to form sandwiches.
- Cook: Butter the outsides of the sandwiches. Cook in a skillet over medium heat for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and cheese is melted.
- Serve: Let the sandwiches sit for 1 minute before slicing and serving warm.
Notes
- Add a few chopped walnuts or a touch of Dijon mustard for extra flavor.
- For extra crispiness, use a cast iron skillet and cook low and slow.
- This sandwich pairs well with a light arugula salad or warm soup.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
