If you’re looking to impress with a sandwich that’s both comforting and a little gourmet, the Cinnamon Sugar Brie and Apple Grilled Cheese Recipe is your new go-to. This delightful twist on the classic grilled cheese perfectly balances the creamy richness of brie with the crisp sweetness of apples, all enhanced by a luscious cinnamon sugar-sprinkled crust and a touch of spicy, honey butter magic. It’s quick to prepare but feels like a special treat every single time, making it ideal for cozy lunches, simple dinners, or even an indulgent snack that’s sure to spark joy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect harmony of flavors and textures in this Cinnamon Sugar Brie and Apple Grilled Cheese Recipe. From the bread’s golden crispiness to the melty, creamy brie and the sweet-tart apple slices, every item is essential to the sandwich’s success.
- 8 slices hearty white country loaf or French bread: Choose sturdy bread for a good crunch and to hold the fillings without getting soggy.
- 2 organic apples, thinly sliced: Crisp and fresh, apples add a bright, juicy contrast to the creamy cheese.
- 250 g brie cheese, cut into 12–16 thin slices (about 1 cup): The star cheese here, brie brings a mellow, buttery softness that melts beautifully.
- 3 tbsp butter (for spreading on bread): Ensures that beautiful golden crust on the outside of the sandwich.
- 4 tbsp hot honey butter (recipe below): Adds a warm, spicy sweetness that elevates the flavor complexity.
- 2 tbsp salted butter, at room temperature: For making the hot honey butter, giving it a rich base and balancing sweetness.
- 2 tbsp fireweed honey or other mild honey: Sweetens the butter gently without overpowering.
- ¼ tsp hot chili flakes (optional, adjust to taste): Adds a subtle kick, perfect if you like a little heat with your sweet and savory.
How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Brie and Apple Grilled Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Make the Hot Honey Butter
Start by blending softened salted butter with mild honey and a pinch of chili flakes in a small bowl until smooth. This hot honey butter is the secret finishing touch that brings warmth and a sweet-spicy layer to the sandwich, making each bite unforgettable.
Step 2: Assemble the Sandwiches
Spread regular butter on one side of every bread slice to ensure a crispy golden exterior. On the unbuttered sides of 4 slices, evenly layer the thin brie slices and apple slices, arranging them carefully to get a nice balance of cheese and fruit in each bite. Then top with the remaining slices of bread, butter side out.
Step 3: Cook the Sandwiches
Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat to avoid burning. Place the sandwiches into the pan and cook each side for 3 to 5 minutes, gently pressing down to melt the brie perfectly and get that gorgeous toasted crust without rushing the process. Keep an eye—when the bread turns golden and the cheese starts to ooze, you’re in business!
Step 4: Finish with Hot Honey Butter
While the sandwiches are still warm, spread or drizzle the hot honey butter over the tops for a glossy finish that’s extra sweet and a little spicy. Serve immediately to enjoy the best texture and melty goodness.
How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Brie and Apple Grilled Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
Want to add a little extra flair? A light dusting of cinnamon sugar right on top of the hot honey butter elevates the aroma and emphasizes the cinnamon note beautifully. Fresh thyme or a sprinkling of finely chopped toasted pecans can add an herbal or nutty contrast if you’re feeling adventurous.
Side Dishes
This sandwich pairs wonderfully with simple, crisp sides like a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness, or some roasted root vegetables that can complement the fall-inspired apple and cinnamon flavors. A bowl of creamy tomato soup is a classic companion for a cozy meal experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try cutting the sandwiches into bite-sized triangles and serving them as finger food at gatherings. You can also serve open-faced with extra apple slices and a drizzle of honey on top for a beautiful brunch presentation. Wrapping them in parchment paper and tying with twine instantly turns them into a charming picnic or lunchbox treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers, wrap the sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container, then refrigerate for up to 2 days. Keep in mind the bread may soften slightly, so reheating is key for restoring that crispy texture.
Freezing
Freezing is possible but not ideal because the apples can become watery upon thawing, and the bread texture might change. If you want to freeze, wrap each sandwich individually in plastic wrap and then foil, and consume within a month for best quality.
Reheating
To bring back the toasty crispness and melty cheese, reheat your sandwich in a skillet over low heat with a lid on for about 5 minutes per side, or until warmed through. Avoid the microwave as it tends to make grilled cheese soggy.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese instead of brie?
Absolutely! While brie melts exceptionally well and pairs beautifully with apples, you can experiment with mild cheeses like camembert or even a creamy mozzarella for a different take. Just choose something that melts smoothly.
What kind of apples work best for this grilled cheese?
Choose firm, crisp apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith for a nice balance of sweetness and tartness that stands up well to cooking without turning mushy.
Is the hot honey butter necessary?
It’s definitely the secret ingredient that makes the Cinnamon Sugar Brie and Apple Grilled Cheese Recipe extra special. But if you don’t have the ingredients, you could use plain honey or a cinnamon butter spread for a similar sweet finish.
Can I make this sandwich vegan or dairy-free?
For a vegan version, substitute the brie with a plant-based cheese that melts well, use dairy-free butter alternatives, and swap honey for maple syrup to keep that sweet touch. The flavor profile will shift, but it’s still delicious!
What’s the best bread to use for this recipe?
Thick slices of hearty white country loaf, French bread, sourdough, or rye all work wonderfully. The key is choosing bread with enough density and crumb to hold the fillings but not so dense it hinders melting and softness inside.
Final Thoughts
This Cinnamon Sugar Brie and Apple Grilled Cheese Recipe is a wonderful opportunity to turn simple ingredients into something truly memorable and comforting. Its unique blend of sweet, savory, creamy, and crispy textures makes it a standout at any meal. I encourage you to try making it soon—you might just find it becomes your new favorite grilled cheese twist!
Print
Cinnamon Sugar Brie and Apple Grilled Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Lunch
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cinnamon Sugar Brie and Apple Grilled Cheese combines creamy brie, crisp apple slices, and a sweet-spicy hot honey butter for a sophisticated twist on the classic grilled cheese sandwich. It’s quick to prepare, perfect for a cozy lunch or light dinner, delivering balanced flavors with a buttery, crunchy exterior and gooey melted cheese inside.
Ingredients
Bread and Cheese
- 8 slices hearty white country loaf or French bread (sourdough or rye also work well)
- 250 g brie cheese, cut into 12–16 thin slices (about 1 cup)
Filling
- 2 organic apples, thinly sliced
Butter and Honey Mixtures
- 3 tbsp butter (for spreading on bread)
- 4 tbsp hot honey butter (see recipe below)
Hot Honey Butter Ingredients
- 2 tbsp salted butter, at room temperature
- 2 tbsp fireweed honey or other mild honey
- ¼ tsp hot chili flakes (optional, adjust to taste)
Instructions
- Make the Hot Honey Butter: In a small bowl, thoroughly mix the softened salted butter, mild honey, and hot chili flakes until smooth and well combined. Set this flavorful mixture aside for later use.
- Assemble Sandwiches: Evenly spread the regular butter on one side of each bread slice. On the unbuttered side of 4 slices, layer thin slices of brie cheese followed by the thinly sliced apples. Top each with the remaining bread slices, ensuring the buttered sides face outward for grilling.
- Cook the Sandwiches: Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Gently place the sandwiches onto the skillet and cook for 3 to 5 minutes on each side. Apply light pressure while cooking to achieve even browning and ensure the brie melts properly. The bread should be golden and crispy when done.
- Finish with Hot Honey Butter: While the sandwiches are still warm, generously drizzle or spread the prepared hot honey butter over the tops. Serve immediately to enjoy the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, creamy, and crunchy flavors.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of hot chili flakes in the honey butter to control the spice level to your preference.
- For best results, use a sturdy bread that can hold the fillings without falling apart.
- This sandwich is best enjoyed fresh off the skillet to enjoy the melted cheese and crisp bread.
- You can substitute apples with pears or other crisp fruits for a flavor variation.
