**Title: Apple and Brie Grilled Cheese – An Impressively Easy Gourmet Sandwich**
*Total time = 15 minutes*
## Introduction
Sometimes, all it takes is one secret ingredient to elevate the humble grilled cheese sandwich into something gourmet. Well, in the Apple and Brie Grilled Cheese Sandwich, we happily have two – crisp Granny Smith apples and creamy Brie cheese. This sandwich brings a delightful balance of sweet and tart flavors, accented by the rich creaminess of the Brie cheese. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare making it a perfect choice for all meals of the day.
## Why Make this Recipe
If you love grilled cheese sandwiches but are looking for an upgraded twist on the traditional, this is the recipe for you! Also, with just a handful of ingredients, you can prepare a gourmet snack at home in less than 15 minutes.
## How to Make Apple and Brie Grilled Cheese
**Ingredients:**
– 4 slices of sourdough bread
– 1 small Granny Smith apple, thinly sliced
– 4 oz Brie cheese, sliced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– Optional: honey or fig jam for drizzling
**Directions:**
1. Start by buttering one side of each slice of bread.
2. Next, arrange Brie cheese slices and apple slices on the unbuttered side of the bread. Optionally, you can drizzle some honey or fig jam on top for an added layer of flavor.
3. Cover this with another slice of bread, keeping the buttered side up.
4. Cook the sandwiches in a preheated skillet over medium-hot heat, pressing down gently.
5. Wait for the bread to turn crispy and golden and cheese to completely melt. This typically takes between 3 to 5 minutes on each side.
## How to Serve Apple and Brie Grilled Cheese
Due to the cheesy filling, it’s best to serve these sandwiches fresh out of the skillet when the cheese is still perfectly melted and the apples are just the right level of warm. Cut the sandwiches in half and serve with a light side salad or some soup for a full meal.
## How to Store Apple and Brie Grilled Cheese
It’s best to consume grilled cheese sandwiches immediately after cooking. However, if you need to store leftovers, wrap them in aluminum foil and refrigerate. When ready to eat, reheat in an oven or toaster oven to ensure the bread stays crispy.
## Tips to Make Apple and Brie Grilled Cheese
– Be sure to slice your apples thin for easy eating and a balanced flavor in every bite.
– Don’t skimp on the butter. It helps the bread achieve a perfect golden brown color and also adds a nice richness to the sandwich.
– If you’d like to make the sandwich even more indulgent, try adding a slice of cured ham or prosciutto.
## Variation
Swap out the sourdough for another sturdy bread like a French loaf or a hearty multi-grain. You can also try using different types of cheese such as Gouda or Fontina, however the unique flavor of Brie is a key element of this recipe.
## FAQs
**1. Can I use a different type of apple?**
Yes, you can use any type of apple you prefer or have on hand, although the tart flavor of Granny Smith apples pairs particularly well with Brie.
**2. Can I grill these sandwiches in a sandwich press?**
Yes! A sandwich press would work great and would save you the task of flipping the sandwich.
**3. Can I make these vegan?**
Definitely. Simply replace the butter with a vegan substitute and use vegan cheese instead of Brie.