The Tangy Blackberry Balsamic and Brie Grilled Cheese Recipe

Melted cheese and sweet-tangy flavors dance together in this irresistible blackberry balsamic and brie grilled cheese that elevates the classic sandwich.

Creamy brie meets the vibrant punch of blackberry balsamic reduction, creating a gourmet twist on comfort food.

Crisp, golden bread cradles the rich, melting cheese and fruity notes.

Each bite promises a delightful contrast of textures and tastes that will surprise your palate.

The combination of sharp and sweet ingredients transforms a simple sandwich into a culinary experience.

Perfectly balanced and incredibly satisfying, this grilled cheese turns an ordinary lunch into something extraordinary.

Prepare to indulge in a sandwich that breaks all the traditional grilled cheese rules.

Storing Grilled Cheese

• Store leftover grilled cheese in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Wrap each sandwich individually in plastic wrap to prevent sogginess.
• Place cooled sandwiches in freezer bags, removing excess air. Keeps well for 1-2 months. Label with date for easy tracking.
• Preheat to 350°F, wrap sandwich in foil to retain moisture. Warm for 10-12 minutes until cheese melts and bread crisps.
• Warm pan on medium-low heat. Add sandwich, cover with lid to help cheese melt evenly. Cook 2-3 minutes per side until heated through.

FAQs

• What ingredients make the blackberry balsamic jam unique?

The jam combines fresh blackberries with balsamic vinegar, creating a tangy-sweet spread that adds complex flavor to the grilled cheese, balancing the richness of the brie.

• Why use thyme in this grilled cheese recipe?

Thyme provides an earthy, herbal note that complements both the sweet blackberry jam and the creamy brie, adding depth and sophistication to the sandwich.

• How do I know when the brie is perfectly melted?

The brie is ready when it starts to soften and become slightly gooey, creating a creamy texture that stretches when you pull the sandwich apart.

• Can I use frozen blackberries for the jam?

Yes, frozen blackberries work well. Just thaw them first and drain excess liquid to ensure the jam reaches the right consistency.

Blackberry Balsamic and Brie Grilled Cheese Reasons to Love

• Transform ordinary grilled cheese into a gourmet experience with sophisticated blackberry balsamic jam and creamy brie.
• Combine sweet, tangy blackberry jam with rich, melty cheese in just minutes for a restaurant-quality meal at home.
• Surprise friends and family with a fancy twist on a classic comfort food that looks and tastes incredibly impressive.
• Perfect for lunch, dinner, or as an elegant appetizer that works for casual nights and special occasions alike.

Ingredient List for Blackberry Grilled Cheese

• Blackberries: Sweet and slightly tart berries that form the base of the jam.
• Brie Cheese: Soft and creamy French cheese that melts beautifully.
• Bread: A sturdy slice that provides the perfect crispy exterior for the grilled cheese.

• Balsamic Vinegar, Sugar, Lemon Juice, Salt: Essential elements that balance the flavor and create a rich, complex blackberry jam.

• Thyme, Butter: Herbs and fat that add depth of flavor and help achieve a golden, crispy exterior.

Tools for Perfect Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

• Large skillet: Perfect for creating golden, crispy grilled cheese.
• Sharp knife: Essential for slicing brie and cutting bread cleanly.
• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for prep work.
• Wooden spoon: Great for stirring blackberry jam while cooking.
• Measuring spoons: Helps accurately measure sugar, salt, and vinegar.
• Spatula: Useful for flipping and transferring grilled cheese.

Steps for Blackberry Brie Grilled Cheese

Step 1: Craft Blackberry Balsamic Reduction

Combine fresh blackberries, balsamic vinegar, granulated sugar, fresh lemon juice, and a pinch of salt in a small saucepan.

Simmer the mixture over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally.

Crush the blackberries gently with a wooden spoon as they cook.

Continue cooking until the mixture thickens and becomes a glossy, jam-like consistency, which typically takes about 15-20 minutes.

Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare Creamy Brie

Unwrap a wheel of brie cheese and use a sharp knife to slice it into even, thin pieces approximately 1/2 inch thick.

Ensure the brie is slightly chilled for easier cutting.

Set the cheese slices aside on a clean cutting board.

Step 3: Warm Cooking Surface

Place a heavy-bottomed skillet or griddle on the stove.

Set the heat to medium-low, allowing the surface to warm gradually.

The ideal temperature will help create a golden, crispy exterior without burning the bread.

Step 4: Build Flavor-Packed Sandwich

Select high-quality artisan bread slices.

Generously spread softened butter on one side of each bread slice.

On the non-buttered side of one slice, layer the brie pieces evenly.

Sprinkle fresh thyme leaves over the cheese.

On the other bread slice, spread a generous layer of the homemade blackberry balsamic reduction.

Step 5: Grill First Side

Carefully place the buttered side of the prepared sandwich down on the heated skillet.

Cook slowly, allowing the bread to turn a beautiful golden brown and the brie to begin melting.

This process typically takes 3-4 minutes.

Step 6: Complete Grilled Cheese

Gently place the jam-covered bread slice on top of the first side, with the buttered side facing up.

Use a spatula to carefully flip the entire sandwich.

Continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until the second side reaches a perfect golden-brown color and the cheese is completely melted and gooey.

Tips for Gooey Grilled Cheese Perfection

• Choose plump, deep-colored blackberries for the most intense flavor and natural sweetness in your jam.
• Simmer the jam slowly and stir frequently to prevent burning and achieve a perfect thick, spreadable texture.
• Cut brie when it's slightly chilled to ensure clean, even slices that melt beautifully in the grilled cheese.
• Use medium-low heat to prevent burning the bread while allowing the cheese to melt evenly and create a golden crispy exterior.
• Spread thyme sparingly to complement the rich brie and tangy blackberry jam without overwhelming the sandwich.

Grilled Cheese Flavor Twists

• Gluten-Free Option: Replace regular bread with gluten-free sourdough or almond flour bread for those with wheat sensitivities.
• Vegan Transformation: Swap brie for dairy-free cashew cheese and use plant-based butter alternative to create a completely vegan version.
• Low-Sugar Alternative: Replace sugar in jam with monk fruit sweetener or stevia to reduce overall sugar content while maintaining delicious flavor profile.
• Savory Herb Variation: Add chopped rosemary or sage instead of thyme for a different aromatic herb experience in the grilled cheese sandwich.

Serving Up Blackberry Brie Grilled Cheese

• Picnic Perfect Pairing: Pack this gourmet grilled cheese in a cute basket with fresh arugula salad and crisp white wine for an elegant outdoor meal.
• Brunch Companion: Serve alongside mimosas or fresh-squeezed orange juice for a decadent weekend breakfast that feels luxurious and special.
• Appetizer Transformation: Cut sandwich into small bite-sized triangles, arrange on a rustic wooden board with fresh blackberries and thyme sprigs for an impressive party starter.
• Wine Night Delight: Pair with a light pinot noir or crisp chardonnay to complement the rich brie and tangy blackberry balsamic jam, creating a sophisticated flavor experience.

Blackberry Balsamic and Brie Grilled Cheese Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.5 from 20 reviews

• Total Time: 19 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Gourmet blackberry balsamic and brie grilled cheese merges sweet and tangy flavors into a luxurious sandwich. Melted cheese and rich berries create a sophisticated twist on classic comfort food you’ll savor with each delectable bite.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh blackberries
• 300 grams (10.5 ounces) double cream brie cheese
• 8 slices sourdough bread

Sweeteners and Liquids:

• 6 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• Butter, room temperature (as needed)

Herbs and Seasonings:

• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 pinch kosher salt

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Simmer blackberries, balsamic vinegar, sugar, lemon juice, and salt in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring frequently until mixture thickens and reduces to a glossy jam-like consistency, approximately 10-12 minutes.
2. While jam cools, carefully slice brie into uniform half-inch thick pieces, ensuring clean cuts for even melting.
3. Preheat a medium skillet over moderate heat, allowing pan to warm evenly without becoming scorching hot.
4. Generously spread softened butter on one side of each bread slice, creating a golden exterior surface for grilling.
5. Layer brie slices on unbuttered side of bread, sprinkle fresh thyme leaves across cheese, and spread cooled blackberry balsamic jam on opposite bread slice.
6. Carefully place buttered side down in heated skillet, allowing bread to turn golden brown and cheese to begin melting, approximately 3-4 minutes.
7. Gently place jam-covered bread slice on top, buttered side facing up, and skillfully flip sandwich to toast opposite side until achieving a uniform golden-brown color and ensuring complete cheese melt, roughly 2-3 minutes.
8. Remove from skillet, let rest momentarily, then slice diagonally and serve immediately while warm and gooey.

Notes

• Select ripe, plump blackberries for maximum flavor and natural sweetness in the jam.
• Use room temperature brie for smoother, more even melting throughout the sandwich.
• Control skillet heat carefully to prevent burning while ensuring crispy, golden bread exterior.
• Experiment with different bread types like sourdough or ciabatta for varied texture and taste profiles.

• Prep Time: 12 minutes
• Cook Time: 7 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Snacks, Appetizer
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 200mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 60mg