If you’re craving something that perfectly balances sweet, savory, and creamy richness, then you have to try this Decadent Apple Butter Brie Grilled Cheese Recipe. It takes the humble grilled cheese to an entirely new level by combining silky brie, luscious apple butter, crisp apple slices, and fresh thyme all nestled between crispy, golden sourdough bread. This sandwich is pure comfort food with an elegant twist that’s guaranteed to dazzle your taste buds and satisfy any craving with every indulgent bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this sandwich truly shine. Each component brings a special touch — from the creamy texture of brie and the sweet-spicy warmth of apple butter, to the crispness of fresh apple slices and the aromatic freshness of thyme.
- 4 slices Sourdough Bread: Choose sourdough for its sturdy crust and tangy flavor that crisps beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (softened): Butter is essential for that golden-brown, melt-in-your-mouth crispiness on the outside.
- 2 tablespoons Apple Butter: Adds a luscious sweetness with a hint of spice that complements the brie perfectly.
- 8 ounces Brie Cheese (cut into slices): The star of the show, creamy and mild, melts irresistibly inside.
- 1 Apple (e.g., Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, sliced): Crisp and fresh apples add a refreshing counterpoint to the cheese’s richness.
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Thyme Leaves: Herbaceous thyme adds a lovely earthy aroma and complexity.
- 1/4 cup Chopped Walnuts or Pecans (optional): For an added crunch and nutty flavor that complements the sandwich.
How to Make Decadent Apple Butter Brie Grilled Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Before heating the skillet, slice your brie and apples evenly to ensure they melt and cook evenly inside the sandwich. Softening your butter makes spreading easier and more even, giving the bread a perfect buttery coat.
Step 2: Heat the Skillet
Preheat your skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes. A properly heated pan ensures that your bread crisps beautifully without burning, allowing the brie to melt to perfection.
Step 3: Butter the Bread
Spread softened unsalted butter on one side of each slice of bread. This buttery side will meet the skillet, giving you that classic golden-brown crust that makes grilled cheese oh-so-tempting.
Step 4: Assemble the Sandwich
Place two slices of bread butter-side down on your work surface. On the unbuttered sides, spread a generous layer of apple butter. Then layer the brie slices on top, followed by the fresh apple slices and a sprinkle of fresh thyme leaves. If using nuts, scatter them evenly for a delightful crunch.
Step 5: Complete and Cook
Top the sandwiches with the remaining bread slices, butter-side up, and gently press down to bind the layers. Carefully transfer to the hot skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes per side. Look for that gorgeous golden-brown color and melted cheese that signals perfect readiness.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Remove the sandwiches from the skillet and let them cool for just a minute. This resting step helps the cheese settle slightly for easier slicing. Cut halfway through the middle, and your Decadent Apple Butter Brie Grilled Cheese Recipe is ready to enjoy.
How to Serve Decadent Apple Butter Brie Grilled Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling extra fresh thyme leaves or a light dusting of cracked black pepper on top can enhance the herbal notes and add a subtle peppery kick that contrasts wonderfully with the sweet apple butter and creamy brie.
Side Dishes
This grilled cheese pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed with vinaigrette, a warm bowl of butternut squash soup, or even some roasted root vegetables to round out your meal with fresh and earthy flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting the sandwich into smaller triangles for a fun appetizer, or serve it open-faced with a drizzle of honey and extra nuts for an elegant brunch option. Presentation can elevate this humble grilled cheese into an impressive centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from your Decadent Apple Butter Brie Grilled Cheese Recipe, wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and keep in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to two days, but be aware the bread may lose a bit of its crispness.
Freezing
You can freeze the sandwiches before cooking by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. When ready, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and cook as usual for a fresh-toasted taste without the prep time.
Reheating
To reheat leftovers, the best method is to use a skillet over low heat. This keeps the bread crispy and melts the cheese gently. Avoid the microwave, as it tends to make grilled cheese soggy and chewy.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese instead of brie?
Absolutely! While brie’s creamy texture is perfect here, you can experiment with camembert, fontina, or even a mild goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
Is apple butter necessary, or can I use regular apple jam?
Apple butter is thicker and less sweet than apple jam, and it adds that warm-spiced flavor that makes this recipe special. However, if apple butter isn’t available, a high-quality apple jam can work in a pinch.
Can I make this sandwich vegan or dairy-free?
You can substitute dairy butter with plant-based margarine and use a dairy-free cheese alternative that melts well. For apple butter, just ensure it’s free from added dairy ingredients.
What type of apple is best for this recipe?
Crisp apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp provide a lovely tartness and crunch that balances well against the sweet apple butter and creamy brie.
Should I add nuts if I’m serving this to kids?
Consider your guests’ preferences and allergies. While nuts add great texture and flavor, they can be omitted or replaced with toasted seeds for a nut-free option.
Final Thoughts
I cannot recommend this Decadent Apple Butter Brie Grilled Cheese Recipe enough—it’s one of those magical combinations that just works every time and feels so cozy and special. Whether it’s for a quick lunch or a comforting dinner, you’re going to love how the sweet, savory, and creamy flavors dance together. Trust me, once you try it, this grilled cheese will become a fast favorite in your kitchen too!
Print
Decadent Apple Butter Brie Grilled Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Lunch
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in this Decadent Apple Butter Brie Grilled Cheese, a perfect blend of creamy Brie cheese, sweet apple butter, and fresh apple slices tucked inside crispy, golden buttery sourdough bread. Enhanced with fragrant thyme and crunchy nuts, this easy skillet-cooked sandwich is a delightful gourmet twist on the classic grilled cheese, ready in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Bread and Butter
- 4 slices Sourdough Bread (or multigrain or brioche)
- 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (softened)
Fillings
- 2 tablespoons Apple Butter
- 8 ounces Brie Cheese (cut into slices)
- 1 apple (e.g., Granny Smith or Honeycrisp) (sliced)
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Thyme Leaves (or preferred herb)
- 1/4 cup Chopped Walnuts or Pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Skillet: Heat your skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes to ensure even cooking and a perfect golden crust.
- Prepare Bread: Spread softened unsalted butter on one side of each bread slice to help achieve a crispy, buttery exterior.
- Assemble Sandwich: Place two slices of bread butter-side down on a clean surface. Spread apple butter on the unbuttered sides of these slices, then layer with sliced Brie cheese.
- Add Toppings: Arrange sliced apples and sprinkle fresh thyme leaves over the Brie. If desired, add chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
- Complete Assembly: Top with the remaining two bread slices, butter-side up, and press down gently to seal the sandwich.
- Cook Sandwich: Place the sandwich in the preheated skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has melted, flipping carefully to maintain the shape.
- Serve: Remove the grilled cheese from the skillet, let cool for one minute, slice it in half, and serve immediately while warm and gooey.
Notes
- Use softened butter for easy spreading and even coverage.
- Choose a tart apple like Granny Smith for contrast against the sweetness of the apple butter.
- Optional nuts add great texture but can be omitted for a nut-free version.
- Press down gently before cooking to help the sandwich hold together and melt evenly.
- Serve with a simple green salad or soup for a complete meal.
