The Cinnamon Sugar Brie and Apple Grilled Cheese is the kind of comfort food that manages to be both nostalgic and sophisticated—and trust me, it’s a sandwich you’ll remember. Imagine golden, buttery sourdough, kissed with cinnamon and sugar, giving way to silky melted Brie, tart apple slices, and just a hint of honey. The flavors melt together into utter perfection, striking a beautiful balance between sweet, savory, creamy, and crisp. It’s simple to make, shockingly delicious, and pretty much guaranteed to become a new favorite, whether you’re making lunch for one or impressing a table of friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This is one of those magical recipes where a handful of thoughtfully chosen ingredients create something truly special. Each element has a role to play—think creamy richness, fresh crunch, and that addictive cinnamon sugar aroma.
- Sourdough bread: The sturdy, tangy slices hold up beautifully to the gooey cheese and juicy apples, offering a crave-worthy crunch and chew.
- Butter (softened): Essential for achieving a crispy, golden crust and melding with the cinnamon sugar for pure comfort.
- Granulated sugar: Adds sparkle and sweetness to the bread, intensifying those nostalgic cinnamon toast vibes.
- Ground cinnamon: The soul of this grilled cheese, lending warmth and inviting aroma to every bite.
- Brie cheese (sliced): Its luscious, creamy texture transforms as it melts—absolutely dreamy alongside the apples.
- Large Honeycrisp or Fuji apple (thinly sliced): These varieties bring a crisp bite and natural tart-sweetness—the perfect contrast to melty cheese.
- Honey: Just a drizzle adds mellow, floral sweetness and ties all the flavors together.
- Pinch of sea salt: Don’t skip this—just a little salt sharpens all the flavors, making each bite pop.
How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Brie and Apple Grilled Cheese
Step 1: Make the Cinnamon Sugar Butter
Grab a small bowl and stir together your softened butter, granulated sugar, and cinnamon until you’ve got a creamy, fragrant spread. You’re not just flavoring the bread—you’re guaranteeing a golden, cinnamon-sugar crunch worthy of your favorite childhood toast.
Step 2: Prep the Bread
Spread your cinnamon sugar butter generously on one side of each slice of sourdough. Don’t skimp here—the mixture is where the magic starts! Lay out the slices, butter side up, making sure every inch is covered for an even, crisp caramelization as it cooks.
Step 3: Build Your Sandwiches
Heat a skillet over medium heat. Place two slices of bread, buttered side down, in the skillet. Layer on those dreamy Brie slices, then arrange a layer of thinly sliced apples over the cheese. Drizzle with honey and sprinkle on a tiny bit of sea salt—trust this step; it truly enhances the other flavors. Cap it off with the remaining bread slices, butter side up.
Step 4: Grill to Perfection
Let the sandwiches cook for about 3 to 4 minutes, until the bottom is golden brown and caramelized. Carefully flip (a wide spatula helps!), then cook for another 3 minutes or so. Your Brie should be luxuriously melted and the bread deeply golden, filled with heavenly cinnamon aroma.
Step 5: Slice and Enjoy
Gently transfer your Cinnamon Sugar Brie and Apple Grilled Cheese sandwiches to a cutting board, let them rest just a moment, then slice in half or diagonally. Serve immediately while the inside is molten and gooey.
How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Brie and Apple Grilled Cheese
Garnishes
A little flourish goes a long way: try a light sprinkle of powdered sugar right before serving, a drizzle of extra honey, or even a quick dusting of cinnamon. Fresh thyme or mint leaves scattered on top bring a bit of color and herbal brightness if you’re feeling fancy.
Side Dishes
Pairing this sandwich is all about balance! A crisp green salad with a cider vinaigrette, a steaming bowl of tomato soup, or some crunchy kettle-cooked chips all play beautifully alongside Cinnamon Sugar Brie and Apple Grilled Cheese. For a more autumnal vibe, go with roasted butternut squash soup or a bowl of fresh grapes.
Creative Ways to Present
For brunch, cut sandwiches into bite-size triangles and spear them with fancy toothpicks for finger food perfection. Hosting a party? Serve with tiny ramekins of balsamic glaze for dipping, or make an “open-face” melt with extra apple slices fanned on top. Even a rustic board with sandwich halves, nuts, and dried fruit makes a stunning centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you end up with leftover Cinnamon Sugar Brie and Apple Grilled Cheese (a rare event!), let the sandwiches cool completely, then wrap them tightly in foil or store in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to two days—the apples will stay surprisingly crisp, and the Brie remains creamy.
Freezing
While fresh is always best, you can freeze assembled (but ungrilled) sandwiches. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to a month. When ready to enjoy, let thaw in the fridge before grilling as usual.
Reheating
To rekindle that fresh-off-the-skillet magic, reheat your sandwich in a skillet over low heat until the bread crisps up and the cheese softens again. You can also warm it in a toaster oven or air fryer for a few minutes—avoid the microwave if you want to keep that lovely texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different cheese besides Brie?
Absolutely! Soft, meltable cheeses like Camembert or even a young Gouda are delectable here. For a sharper twist, try Gruyère or fontina, but keep in mind the creamy vibe of Brie is what makes this sandwich so special.
Are there other fruits that work well with this sandwich?
Definitely—pears are delicious, especially in cooler months, and thinly sliced peaches work beautifully in summer. Even ripe figs or a handful of cranberries can add a new dimension to your Cinnamon Sugar Brie and Apple Grilled Cheese.
How do I keep the bread from burning before the cheese melts?
The key is moderate heat—medium or even medium-low. Don’t rush it! Cooking slowly lets the Brie melt without scorching the bread. If needed, cover the skillet briefly to help the cheese along.
What’s the best apple for this recipe?
Honeycrisp and Fuji apples are top picks for their juicy crunch and perfect mix of sweetness and acidity. Avoid mushy or super-tart varieties; crispness and a balanced flavor really stand out in this sandwich.
Is Cinnamon Sugar Brie and Apple Grilled Cheese good for kids?
Kids adore the sweet, buttery bread and gooey cheese—plus, the apple adds some sneaky nutrition. For picky eaters, peel the apples or swap Brie for another favorite cheese. It’s a fun, family-friendly upgrade from ordinary grilled cheese.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving something unique yet deeply comforting, Cinnamon Sugar Brie and Apple Grilled Cheese is the recipe to try next. It’s irresistibly cozy, blissfully simple, and always a conversation starter. Make one for yourself, share with a friend, and watch it become an instant obsession!
Print
Cinnamon Sugar Brie and Apple Grilled Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 2 sandwiches
- Category: Sandwich, Lunch
- Method: Stovetop, Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the perfect blend of sweet and savory with this Cinnamon Sugar Brie and Apple Grilled Cheese recipe. With gooey Brie cheese, crisp apples, and a hint of cinnamon sugar, this gourmet grilled cheese is a delightful twist on a classic favorite.
Ingredients
Sourdough Bread:
- 4 slices
Butter (softened):
- 2 tablespoons
Granulated Sugar:
- 1 tablespoon
Ground Cinnamon:
- 1/2 teaspoon
Brie Cheese (sliced):
- 6 ounces
Honeycrisp or Fuji Apple (thinly sliced):
- 1 large
Honey:
- 2 teaspoons
Sea Salt:
- pinch
Instructions
- Mix Cinnamon Sugar Butter: In a small bowl, combine softened butter, granulated sugar, and ground cinnamon.
- Spread Butter: Spread the cinnamon sugar butter on one side of each slice of sourdough bread.
- Layer Ingredients: Heat a skillet and place bread slices butter-side down. Layer with Brie cheese, apple slices, honey, and a sprinkle of sea salt.
- Cook Grilled Cheese: Top with remaining bread slices, butter-side up. Cook until golden and crisp, then flip and cook until Brie is melted.
- Serve: Slice and enjoy warm.
Notes
- Try using pears instead of apples for a different flavor profile.
- For added crunch, include toasted walnuts or pecans in the sandwich.
- A drizzle of balsamic glaze complements the sweet and savory elements of this dish.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 670 mg
- Fat: 26 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 52 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 17 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg
