Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Brie, Apple and Cranberry Grilled Cheese is a gourmet twist on a classic comfort food. The creamy, melty brie pairs beautifully with the tart-sweet cranberry sauce and crisp apple slices, all tucked between golden, buttery slices of bread. Perfect for fall or holiday leftovers, this sandwich is satisfying, indulgent, and easy to prepare.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
sliced bread (such as sourdough or multigrain)brie cheesebutterapple slices (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)cranberry sauce (whole berry or jellied style)optional: a pinch of cinnamon or fresh thyme
directions
Butter one side of each slice of bread.
Place one slice, buttered side down, in a skillet over medium heat.
Layer with sliced brie, apple slices, and a generous spoonful of cranberry sauce.
Add a pinch of cinnamon or thyme if desired for extra flavor.
Top with another slice of bread, buttered side up.
Grill for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and the brie is melted.
Remove from skillet, let rest for a minute, then slice and serve.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 2 sandwiches.Preparation time: 5 minutesCooking time: 8-10 minutesTotal time: 13-15 minutes
Variations
Use goat cheese or camembert instead of brie for a different flavor.
Add a handful of arugula for a peppery bite.
Swap cranberry sauce for fig jam or raspberry preserves.
Include caramelized onions for extra richness.
Make it on a panini press for even browning.
storage/reheating
This sandwich is best enjoyed fresh.However, if you need to store it, wrap it in foil and refrigerate for up to 1 day.Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat until warmed through and crispy again.
FAQs
Can I use a different cheese?
Yes, camembert, goat cheese, or even mozzarella can work, though brie provides the best creaminess.
What’s the best apple for this sandwich?
Tart apples like Granny Smith or sweet-tart ones like Honeycrisp balance the richness of the brie well.
Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?
It’s best made fresh, but you can prep the components ahead and assemble when ready to cook.
Do I need to peel the apples?
Peeling is optional—leaving the peel on adds texture and nutrients.
Can I use leftover cranberry sauce?
Absolutely! This is a great way to use holiday leftovers.
Is it kid-friendly?
Yes, though kids may prefer a milder cheese or less cranberry sauce.
Can I make it vegan?
Use vegan brie, plant-based butter, and a vegan-friendly cranberry sauce.
Can I freeze it?
Freezing is not recommended as the brie and apple texture may suffer.
Conclusion
Brie, Apple and Cranberry Grilled Cheese offers a sophisticated yet simple take on a traditional favorite. Whether you’re using up leftovers or crafting a cozy lunch, this sandwich delivers a perfect mix of creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors. It’s quick, comforting, and effortlessly elegant.
PrintBrie, Apple and Cranberry Grilled Cheese
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 13 minutes
- Yield: 1 sandwich
- Category: Lunch
- Method: Grilled
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A sweet and savory twist on the classic grilled cheese, this Brie, Apple, and Cranberry Grilled Cheese is perfect for a cozy lunch or light dinner, featuring creamy brie, tart cranberries, and crisp apple slices.
Ingredients
- 2 slices of sourdough bread
- 2 oz brie cheese, sliced
- 1/4 apple, thinly sliced (preferably Granny Smith)
- 2 tbsp cranberry sauce
- 1 tbsp butter, softened
Instructions
- Preheat a skillet over medium heat.
- Butter one side of each slice of bread.
- Place one slice, buttered side down, in the skillet.
- Layer with brie slices, apple slices, and cranberry sauce.
- Top with the second slice of bread, buttered side up.
- Grill for 3–4 minutes per side or until the bread is golden and the cheese is melted.
- Remove from skillet, slice in half, and serve warm.
Notes
- Use a tart apple like Granny Smith for contrast against the sweet cranberry sauce.
- For added crunch, try adding a few chopped walnuts.
- You can use whole grain or rye bread instead of sourdough for a different flavor profile.