Description
This Blackberry Balsamic and Brie Grilled Cheese sandwich combines creamy brie cheese with a tangy-sweet blackberry balsamic jam, all sandwiched between perfectly toasted sourdough bread. It’s a sophisticated twist on the classic grilled cheese that’s ideal for a delightful vegetarian lunch or light dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Blackberry Balsamic Jam:
- 1/2 cup fresh blackberries
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Sandwich:
- 8 slices sourdough bread
- 6 oz brie cheese, rind removed and sliced
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- Optional: fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Blackberry Balsamic Jam: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine blackberries, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 5–7 minutes, gently mashing the berries as they soften, until the mixture reduces and thickens to a jam-like consistency. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Butter the Bread: Spread softened butter evenly on one side of each slice of sourdough bread. This will help create a golden, crispy crust when grilled.
- Assemble the Sandwiches: Place four slices of the buttered bread on a clean surface with the buttered side down. Layer the sliced brie evenly over each slice, then spoon the prepared blackberry balsamic jam atop the cheese. Cover with the remaining slices of bread, butter side up.
- Cook the Sandwiches: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula to ensure even browning. Continue until the bread is golden brown and the brie has melted thoroughly.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the sandwiches from the skillet and allow them to rest for one minute. Slice in half, garnish with fresh thyme leaves if desired, and serve warm alongside a light salad or tomato soup for a satisfying meal.
Notes
- If fresh blackberries are unavailable, substitute with raspberry or fig preserves for a similar sweet and tangy flavor.
- For an extra crispy texture and beautiful grill marks, use a panini press instead of a skillet.
- This grilled cheese pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or a comforting bowl of tomato soup.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 520 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 13 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 14 g
- Cholesterol: 60 mg
