Cinnamon Sugar Brie and Apple Grilled Cheese Recipe
If you’re in the mood for pure coziness between two slices of golden bread, this Cinnamon Sugar Brie and Apple Grilled Cheese is about to become your next obsession. Imagine creamy brie melting into crisp, sweet apples, all wrapped up in toasted, cinnamon-kissed brioche — it’s a snack, lunch, or simple indulgence that strikes just the right balance between sweet and savory. Each bite brings together the creamy richness of cheese, a fruity tang, and the comforting warmth of cinnamon sugar, making this sandwich a must-try when you want something a little special (without a lot of effort).
Ingredients You’ll Need
Great flavor starts with great ingredients, and our Cinnamon Sugar Brie and Apple Grilled Cheese keeps things simple but unforgettable. Each component shines in its own way, creating that crave-worthy blend of flavors and textures.
- Brioche or Sourdough Bread: These sturdy slices bring a buttery flavor and hold up beautifully to gooey cheese and juicy apples.
- Brie Cheese: Velvety, rich, and slightly tangy, brie becomes luxuriously melty and creamy as soon as it hits the heat.
- Crisp Apple (such as Honeycrisp): Thin apple slices provide both crunch and a juicy sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the melty cheese.
- Butter (softened): Mixing butter with cinnamon sugar ensures the bread toasts up golden and fragrant, with a hint of caramelization.
- Granulated Sugar: A hint of sugar in the butter adds sweetness and helps create a crunchy, irresistible crust.
- Ground Cinnamon: Cinnamon brings a gentle warmth and depth, making each bite extra cozy.
- Honey (optional): A drizzle of honey boosts the sweetness and ties together the fruit and cheese flavors, but isn’t strictly necessary if you prefer a less sweet sandwich.
How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Brie and Apple Grilled Cheese
Step 1: Make the Cinnamon Sugar Butter
Start by combining the softened butter, granulated sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl. Use a fork or spatula to blend everything together until smooth and well mixed. This cinnamon sugar butter is the secret to that tempting aroma and beautiful golden crust — don’t skip it!
Step 2: Prep the Bread & Build the Sandwiches
Lay out all eight slices of your brioche or sourdough on a clean surface. Spread the cinnamon sugar butter generously on one side of each slice. Flip half the slices so the buttered side faces down; now layer on sliced brie, a few thin apple slices, and a drizzle of honey if you’re using it. Top each with another slice of bread, buttered side out.
Step 3: Grill to Perfection
Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Carefully place your sandwiches in the pan and press gently with a spatula. Grill for about 3 to 4 minutes per side, until the bread is crisp and golden, and the brie is gloriously melty. Patience here is worthwhile; low and slow ensures the cheese melts fully without burning the bread.
Step 4: Rest and Slice
Once your Cinnamon Sugar Brie and Apple Grilled Cheese sandwiches are perfectly golden, remove them from the skillet and let them rest for a minute. This helps the cheese set ever so slightly, making slicing easier (with less ooze). Cut on the diagonal for the classic grilled cheese look, and get ready to swoon!
How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Brie and Apple Grilled Cheese
Garnishes
This sandwich is stunning on its own, but for an eye-catching finishing touch, try a light dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of extra honey, or even a scattering of finely chopped pecans or walnuts for a hint of crunch.
Side Dishes
The warm, melty goodness of Cinnamon Sugar Brie and Apple Grilled Cheese pairs seamlessly with a simple green salad, a cup of tomato soup, or a mug of spiced apple cider for those extra cozy days. Each side dish highlights either the sweet or savory elements of the sandwich, bringing balance to your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving this at a gathering, cut each sandwich into quarters or fingers and arrange on a platter for easy sharing. Stack them tall for added drama, or pair with ramekins of honey or fruit preserves for dipping. For a decadent brunch, add a dusting of cinnamon and serve with sliced fresh apples on the side.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (not that it often happens!), let the sandwich cool to room temperature before storing. Wrap each piece tightly in foil or plastic wrap and place in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors will still be delicious even after chilling.
Freezing
Cinnamon Sugar Brie and Apple Grilled Cheese can be made ahead and frozen for a quick treat later. After cooking and cooling completely, wrap each sandwich tightly in foil and place them in a freezer bag. They’ll keep their magic for about one month when properly stored.
Reheating
For best results, reheat sandwiches in a skillet over low heat, pressing gently until the bread crisps up again and the cheese melts. You can also reheat in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway, but skip the microwave to prevent sogginess.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While brie creates that signature creamy melt, camembert, fontina, or even a mild havarti will also work well. Just choose a cheese with good melting qualities and a mild, buttery flavor to keep the sweet and savory vibe balanced.
Which apple variety is best for Cinnamon Sugar Brie and Apple Grilled Cheese?
Honeycrisp is a standout because it’s crisp, juicy, and sweet-tart, but Granny Smith, Fuji, or Gala apples are great alternatives. The key is to pick an apple that holds its texture and provides a burst of freshness against the creamy cheese.
Is it necessary to remove the rind from the brie?
This comes down to personal preference! The rind is edible and softens as it melts, adding earthy, mushroomy notes. If it’s not your favorite, peel it off before slicing the cheese; your sandwich will still turn out beautifully oozy and rich.
Can I make Cinnamon Sugar Brie and Apple Grilled Cheese dairy-free or vegan?
Certainly! Use your favorite plant-based butter and cheese alternatives (look for an extra creamy vegan brie or soft cashew cheese), and your go-to non-dairy bread. Vegan sandwiches won’t melt quite like dairy brie but will still be utterly delicious.
How can I add more crunch or flavor to this grilled cheese?
Try scattering some chopped toasted pecans or walnuts on top of the brie before closing the sandwich, or add a pinch of ground ginger to the cinnamon sugar mixture for a bold twist. Pear slices are also a scrumptious swap for apples if you’re feeling adventurous!
Final Thoughts
This Cinnamon Sugar Brie and Apple Grilled Cheese is everything you want in a comfort food sandwich — melty, buttery, packed with sweet apples and a little cinnamon sparkle. Whether you’re looking for an effortless lunch, a unique brunch centerpiece, or simply a way to use up apples and brie, don’t wait to try it for yourself. Let the aroma of cinnamon and toasted bread fill your kitchen, and get ready to fall in love with every bite!
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Cinnamon Sugar Brie and Apple Grilled Cheese Recipe
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 4 sandwiches 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors with this Cinnamon Sugar Brie and Apple Grilled Cheese. This gourmet grilled cheese sandwich features gooey Brie cheese, crisp apple slices, and a hint of warm cinnamon sugar, all grilled to perfection on buttery brioche or sourdough bread. It’s a delightful treat for any time of day!
Ingredients
Bread:
- 8 slices brioche or sourdough bread
Cheese:
- 8 ounces Brie cheese, sliced with rind removed if desired
Apple:
- 1 large crisp apple (such as Honeycrisp), thinly sliced
Butter Mix:
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Additional:
- 2 teaspoons honey (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Butter: Mix softened butter with cinnamon and sugar until well combined.
- Assemble Sandwiches: Spread cinnamon sugar butter on one side of each bread slice. Layer Brie, apple slices, and honey between slices.
- Grill: Cook sandwiches in a skillet over medium-low heat until golden brown and cheese is melted, about 3–4 minutes per side.
- Serve: Rest for 1 minute, then slice and serve warm.
Notes
- Add chopped pecans or try pear slices for variation.
- For extra gooey texture, let Brie sit at room temperature before assembling.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 530mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
