Apple Butter Brie Grilled Cheese Recipe
Introduction
This Apple Butter Brie Grilled Cheese is a delightful twist on a classic favorite. Combining creamy Brie, sweet apple butter, and crisp apple slices makes for a perfect balance of flavors in every bite. It’s an easy-to-make sandwich that feels special and comforting at the same time.

Ingredients
- 4 slices sourdough bread
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons apple butter
- 4 ounces Brie cheese, rind trimmed and sliced
- 1 small apple, thinly sliced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
- Step 2: Spread a thin layer of softened butter on one side of each slice of sourdough bread.
- Step 3: On the unbuttered side of two bread slices, spread 1 tablespoon of apple butter evenly.
- Step 4: Arrange the sliced Brie cheese evenly over the apple butter on each slice.
- Step 5: Add thin apple slices and sprinkle fresh thyme leaves over the Brie.
- Step 6: Top with the remaining bread slices, buttered sides facing outward to form sandwiches.
- Step 7: Place the sandwiches in the heated skillet. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has melted.
- Step 8: Remove the sandwiches from the skillet, slice each in half, and serve immediately.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the apple slices before assembling.
- Swap out sourdough for a hearty multigrain bread for a nuttier taste.
- If Brie is too strong for your taste, use a milder cheese like Havarti or Camembert.
- To make it vegetarian-friendly, ensure the butter used is plant-based.
Storage
Store leftover grilled cheese sandwiches wrapped tightly in aluminum foil or an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat to restore crispiness and melt the cheese, or use a toaster oven. Avoid microwaving to prevent soggy bread.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other types of apples?
Yes, you can substitute Granny Smith or Honeycrisp with any firm apple variety that holds up well when sliced, such as Fuji or Pink Lady.
Is apple butter different from regular butter?
Yes, apple butter is a sweet spread made by slow-cooking apples with spices until it thickens, unlike regular butter which is dairy-based. It adds a fruity sweetness perfect for this sandwich.
Print
Apple Butter Brie Grilled Cheese Recipe
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 2 sandwiches 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful twist on the classic grilled cheese, this Apple Butter Brie Grilled Cheese features creamy Brie, sweet apple butter, and crisp apple slices layered between buttery sourdough bread. Enhanced with fresh thyme, it’s a perfect balance of savory and sweet, ideal for a comforting snack or light meal.
Ingredients
Bread and Spreads
- 4 slices sourdough bread
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons apple butter
Cheese and Apple
- 4 ounces Brie cheese, rind trimmed and sliced
- 1 small apple, thinly sliced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
Instructions
- Preheat Cooking Surface: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat to prepare for grilling the sandwiches.
- Prepare Bread: Spread a thin layer of softened unsalted butter on one side of each slice of sourdough bread to ensure a golden, crispy exterior.
- Layer Spreads: On the unbuttered sides of two slices of bread, evenly spread 1 tablespoon of apple butter each to add a sweet contrast to the savory cheese.
- Add Cheese and Apple: Lay the sliced Brie cheese evenly over the apple butter. Top with thinly sliced apples and sprinkle fresh thyme leaves over for an aromatic touch.
- Assemble Sandwiches: Place the remaining two slices of bread on top, buttered sides facing outward, to complete the sandwich assembly.
- Cook Sandwiches: Place the sandwiches in the preheated skillet. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes on each side, pressing gently with a spatula until the bread is golden brown and the Brie cheese has melted beautifully.
- Serve: Remove the grilled sandwiches from the heat, slice each in half, and serve immediately to enjoy the melty, flavorful combination at its best.
Notes
- Use Granny Smith apples for a tart contrast, or Honeycrisp apples for a sweeter profile.
- You can substitute Brie with Camembert or another soft, creamy cheese if preferred.
- To enhance flavor, add a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes before grilling.
- Cook over medium heat to avoid burning the bread before the cheese melts.
- Serve with a side of mixed greens or a light soup for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: grilled cheese, apple butter, Brie, sourdough, apple slices, thyme, savory sweet sandwich

