If you’re on the hunt for something sweet, savory, and utterly irresistible, I’ve got just the thing: Blackberry Balsamic Brie Grilled Cheese Recipe. This sandwich blew my mind the first time I made it—juicy blackberries cooked down with balsamic vinegar meet creamy, melty brie, all hugged by perfectly toasted sourdough. Trust me, once you try this combo, regular grilled cheese just won’t cut it anymore.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bold Flavor Fusion: The sweet-tart blackberry balsamic jam perfectly complements the creamy richness of brie.
- Simple Ingredients, Gourmet Taste: You probably have most pantry staples on hand, yet it tastes fancy enough for guests.
- Fun Yet Foolproof: Easy to make, even if you’re new to jam-making or grilled cheese beyond the basics.
- Perfect Anytime Snack: Works for lunch, dinner, or even a special weekend brunch treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient here brings something special to the table (or sandwich!). I love how the tart blackberries balance the lush brie, while sourdough bread adds sturdy texture and tang—perfect for standing up to juicy fillings.
- Blackberries: Make sure they’re ripe and firm to get that fresh berry punch in your jam.
- Balsamic Vinegar: Adds a rich, slightly sweet acidity that brightens the jam beautifully.
- Sugar: Essential for making the blackberry mixture jammy and to balance the tartness.
- Lemon Juice: Just a splash to lift flavors and help the jam set.
- Kosher Salt: A pinch enhances all the flavors without making it taste salty.
- Double Cream Brie Cheese: The star cheese here—super creamy, mild, and melts like a dream.
- Fresh Thyme: Adds an earthy herbal note that cuts through the richness.
- Sourdough Bread: Thick-sliced works best to hold everything together without getting soggy.
- Butter: For that irresistible golden crust and plenty of flavor when grilling.
Variations
I love making this Blackberry Balsamic Brie Grilled Cheese Recipe just as it is, but I also play around with it depending on my mood or what’s in the fridge—there’s so much room to personalize it to your taste.
- Use Goat Cheese Instead of Brie: I once swapped in creamy goat cheese for a tangier bite, which was fantastic with the berry jam.
- Add Nuts: Toasted pecans or walnuts add a lovely crunch that contrasts nicely with the soft cheese and jam.
- Gluten-Free Bread: If you prefer GF, just be mindful to toast it gently so it doesn’t fall apart with all the juicy goodness.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Rosemary or sage instead of thyme can add a different but equally delicious herbal note.
How to Make Blackberry Balsamic Brie Grilled Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Make the Blackberry Balsamic Jam
Start by combining the blackberries, balsamic vinegar, sugar, lemon juice, and a pinch of kosher salt in a saucepan. Bring the mix to a boil over medium-high heat—this fills your kitchen with the most amazing aroma! Then, turn down the heat and let it simmer gently. As it bubbles, crush the berries with a wooden spoon or potato masher to break them down. This step helps the jam thicken up nicely. You’ll want to simmer for about 7 to 10 minutes until it’s thick and jammy; don’t worry if it seems a bit runny at first—it’ll firm up as it cools.
Step 2: Prepare the Brie and Bread
Slice your brie into half-inch thick pieces—enough to get that satisfying cheesy pull in every bite. Warm up a skillet over medium heat, but be patient: don’t crank it too high or your bread might burn before the cheese melts. Butter one side of four bread slices and place them butter-side-down on the skillet. Then layer on your brie slices evenly, and sprinkle with fresh thyme for that herbal pop.
Step 3: Assemble and Grill the Sandwich
Spread a generous layer of your cooled blackberry balsamic jam onto the remaining bread slices. Place the jam-covered sides down over the brie on the skillet. Don’t forget to butter the top sides of these slices too! Carefully flip the entire sandwich and cook until the bottom bread turns golden brown and the brie melts into gooey perfection. Depending on your skillet size, it might take two batches—totally worth it, I promise!
Step 4: Rest and Serve
Transfer your finished grilled cheeses to a cutting board and let them cool for a couple of minutes—this step is important so the jam doesn’t squish out when you cut. Then slice in half with a sharp knife and get ready for that first gooey, fruity bite that’s absolutely dreamy.
Pro Tips for Making Blackberry Balsamic Brie Grilled Cheese Recipe
- Low and Slow is Key: Keeping your pan at medium heat ensures the bread toasts evenly and the brie melts perfectly without rushing the jam.
- Jam Cooling Matters: Let the blackberry balsamic jam cool completely before assembling; hot jam can make the bread soggy and tricky to flip.
- Use a Spatula for Flipping: A wide, sturdy spatula gives you control when flipping so the sandwich stays together and doesn’t spill out the goodies.
- Slice with a Sharp Knife: To avoid squashing the sandwich and losing that melty cheese and jam, use a serrated knife and slice gently.
How to Serve Blackberry Balsamic Brie Grilled Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
I like to sprinkle just a touch more fresh thyme leaves on top before serving for a lovely fresh note and extra color. Sometimes, a tiny drizzle of balsamic glaze adds that extra tangy pop and looks so pretty on the plate.
Side Dishes
This sandwich pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad tossed in a citrus vinaigrette, or you can keep it cozy with a bowl of tomato soup if you’re in pure comfort food mode. For something lighter, I sometimes serve it alongside roasted root vegetables or simple steamed green beans.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special brunch, I’ve arranged mini grilled cheese sliders on a wooden board with little skewers holding them together, garnished with fresh blackberries and thyme sprigs. It’s a fun way to turn this recipe into a conversation starter!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers (lucky you!), wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store in the fridge for up to two days. I noticed that the jam can make the bread a bit soft over time, but the flavors stay fantastic.
Freezing
I’ve frozen these grilled cheese sandwiches wrapped individually, placing parchment paper between them to prevent sticking. When you want to enjoy one, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently to help the cheese melt again without overbrowning the bread.
Reheating
The best way to reheat is in a skillet over medium-low heat, flipping occasionally until warm and the cheese is melty. You can also use a toaster oven—just keep an eye so the bread doesn’t burn. Microwave reheating tends to make the bread soggy, so I avoid it for this sandwich.
FAQs
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Can I use frozen blackberries for the blackberry balsamic jam?
Absolutely! Frozen blackberries work well since they already release plenty of juice as they cook, which helps the jam come together. Just be sure to thaw them first and drain any excess liquid to avoid a runny jam.
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What type of bread is best for Blackberry Balsamic Brie Grilled Cheese Recipe?
Sourdough is my go-to for this recipe because its sturdy crust and tangy flavor complement the sweetness and creaminess perfectly. Thick slices hold up well to the juicy jam and melted cheese without falling apart.
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Can I make the blackberry balsamic jam ahead of time?
Yes! The jam actually tastes better after resting a few hours or overnight, allowing all those flavors to deepen. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and use it within a week.
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How do I prevent the sandwich from getting soggy?
Using buttered bread grilled on medium heat helps keep each side crisp. Also, letting the jam cool before assembling prevents moisture from seeping into the bread too quickly. Serve immediately after cooking for the best texture.
Final Thoughts
This Blackberry Balsamic Brie Grilled Cheese Recipe has fast become one of my favorite indulgences—every time I make it, it feels like a little celebration of simple, fresh ingredients coming together perfectly. Whether you’re looking to impress friends or just treat yourself on a cozy night, this sandwich delivers in flavor, texture, and comfort. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how magical a grilled cheese can be!
Print
Blackberry Balsamic Brie Grilled Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 sandwiches
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
A delightful twist on a classic grilled cheese sandwich featuring creamy double cream brie paired with a sweet and tangy homemade blackberry balsamic jam, accented with fresh thyme and grilled to golden perfection on sourdough bread.
Ingredients
Blackberry Balsamic Jam
- 2 cups blackberries
- 3 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 6 tbsp sugar
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- Pinch of kosher salt
Sandwich
- 300 g double cream brie cheese
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
- 8 slices sourdough bread
- Butter, as needed for frying
Instructions
- Make the Blackberry Balsamic Jam: In a saucepan, combine the blackberries, balsamic vinegar, sugar, lemon juice, and a pinch of kosher salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to simmer. Using a wooden spoon or potato masher, crush the berries to help break them down.
- Simmer the Jam: Continue simmering the blackberry mixture for 7 to 10 minutes until it reduces into a thick jam consistency. Remember it will thicken further as it cools. Transfer the jam to a small bowl and let it cool completely.
- Prepare the Brie: Slice the double cream brie into ½ inch thick slices. Set aside.
- Heat the Skillet: Warm a skillet over medium heat, ensuring it doesn’t get too hot to prevent the bread from browning before the cheese melts. You may need to cook in batches depending on skillet size.
- Assemble and Cook the Sandwiches: Butter one side of four slices of sourdough bread and place them butter-side down in the skillet. Layer the brie slices evenly on the bread. Let the bread fry slowly until golden and the brie begins to soften. Sprinkle the cheese with chopped fresh thyme.
- Add the Jam and Complete Cooking: Spread a thick layer of blackberry balsamic jam on the remaining four bread slices. Place these jam-side down over the melting brie in the skillet. Butter the top side of these slices. Carefully flip the sandwiches and continue frying until the bottom is golden brown and the brie is fully melted.
- Serve: Transfer the grilled sandwiches to a cutting board and allow them to cool for a couple of minutes. Cut in half with a sharp knife and serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use double cream brie for a rich, creamy melt and luxurious texture.
- Keep the heat moderate to avoid burning the bread before the cheese melts.
- The homemade blackberry balsamic jam can be made in advance and stored refrigerated for up to a week.
- For an herbal twist, experiment with other fresh herbs like rosemary or sage in place of thyme.
- This sandwich pairs well with a crisp green salad or a light soup for a satisfying meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
