Cinnamon Sugar Brie and Apple Grilled Cheese

Cinnamon Sugar Brie and Apple Grilled Cheese is the perfect blend of sweet, salty, creamy, and crispy, making it a standout twist on the classic grilled cheese sandwich. With layers of buttery Brie, thinly sliced apples, and a spiced honey butter that adds a gentle heat and sweetness, this sandwich is ideal for fall brunches, cozy lunches, or even a quick weeknight dinner that feels gourmet.

The combination of crisp, tart apples and melty Brie is a timeless one, but what sets this version apart is the hot honey butter—infused with chili flakes and slathered onto golden-griddled bread for a kick of warmth and complexity. Whether you opt for sourdough, rye, or a rustic country loaf, the result is a sandwich with texture, flavor, and elegance in every bite. This recipe proves that grilled cheese isn’t just for kids—it can be rich, seasonal, and downright irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect balance of sweet and savory
• Ideal for fall and winter comfort meals
• Hot honey butter adds a gourmet touch
• Quick to prepare, but feels elegant
• Versatile bread and apple options

Ingredients

Apple Brie Grilled Cheese

• Hearty white country loaf or French bread (sourdough or rye work too)
• Organic apples, thinly sliced
• Brie cheese, thinly sliced
• Butter for spreading
• Hot honey butter

Hot Honey Butter

• Salted butter, room temperature
• Mild honey (like fireweed honey)
• Hot chili flakes

Variations

• Make it milder: Omit chili flakes for a sweeter version
• Add a fall spice twist: Sprinkle a bit of cinnamon or nutmeg on the apples
• Go savory: Add a few leaves of arugula or a slice of prosciutto
• Use a different cheese: Camembert or Havarti are great substitutes for Brie
• Try pears instead of apples for a softer, sweeter variation

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Make the Hot Honey Butter

In a small bowl, combine room-temperature salted butter, mild honey, and chili flakes. Mix until smooth and well combined. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Bread

Lay out the slices of bread. Spread one side of each slice with plain butter. On the unbuttered side, layer Brie slices and thinly sliced apples evenly across half of the bread slices.

Step 3: Assemble the Sandwiches

Top with the remaining slices of bread, buttered side out. Spread hot honey butter on the outside of each sandwich (optional, or just do one side for a lighter touch).

Step 4: Grill the Sandwiches

Heat a skillet over medium heat. Grill each sandwich for 3–4 minutes per side or until golden brown and the Brie has melted. Press lightly with a spatula for even toasting.

Step 5: Serve Warm

Cut in halves or quarters and serve warm while the cheese is melty and gooey.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use firm apples like Honeycrisp or Pink Lady for the best texture
• Thinly slice the Brie so it melts evenly
• Let the butter come to room temperature for easy spreading
• Grill over medium heat to avoid burning the bread before the cheese melts
• For extra richness, brush the outside with additional honey butter just before serving

How to Serve

Serve warm and melty, ideally alongside a simple arugula salad, a bowl of tomato soup, or as part of a fall-themed brunch spread. It also pairs beautifully with apple cider or a glass of white wine.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store grilled sandwiches in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. They will lose crispness but can be reheated.

Freezing

Not recommended—Brie and apples do not freeze well in assembled sandwiches.

Reheating

Reheat on a skillet over medium-low heat to re-crisp the bread and re-melt the cheese. You can also use a toaster oven.

FAQs

1. What apples are best for this recipe?

Crisp, tart varieties like Honeycrisp, Pink Lady, or Granny Smith are ideal.

2. Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?

You can prep components, but assemble and grill just before serving for best texture.

3. What bread works best?

Sourdough, rye, or any hearty artisan bread holds up well.

4. Can I skip the hot chili flakes?

Yes, the honey butter is still delicious without the heat.

5. Is Brie the only cheese I can use?

Other soft cheeses like Camembert or even Fontina can work.

6. Can I use unsalted butter?

Yes, just add a pinch of salt to balance the flavor.

7. How do I keep the bread from burning?

Cook on medium to medium-low heat and monitor closely.

8. Can I make it in a panini press?

Absolutely—it toasts evenly and helps press the sandwich.

9. What can I serve it with?

Pair it with tomato soup, salad, or seasonal fruit.

10. Is this kid-friendly?

Yes, especially if you omit or reduce the chili flakes.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Sugar Brie and Apple Grilled Cheese transforms a classic sandwich into a gourmet delight. With melty Brie, crisp apples, and a touch of sweet heat from the hot honey butter, every bite is rich, comforting, and layered with fall-inspired flavor. Whether you’re entertaining guests or treating yourself to a cozy lunch, this sandwich is a must-try for the season.

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