Some days, you crave something a little indulgent, but still easy enough to whip up during a busy afternoon. That’s exactly how I felt the first time I layered sweet blackberry preserves and tangy balsamic glaze between slices of toasty sourdough and melted, buttery brie. This Blackberry Balsamic and Brie Grilled Cheese isn’t just a sandwich, it’s a cozy escape wrapped in golden crunch and creamy richness. Whether you’re surprising guests or treating yourself to something different, this one delivers on both comfort and wow factor.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Blackberry Balsamic and Brie Grilled Cheese
- Quick & Simple – Ready in under 20 minutes with just a few pantry staples.
- Sweet & Savory Combo – The blackberry and balsamic glaze adds unexpected depth.
- Elegant but Easy – A grilled cheese that feels fancy without the fuss.
- Perfect for Brunch or a Light Dinner – Pair it with soup, salad, or even wine.
- Great for Impressing Guests – It looks gourmet, but takes barely any effort.
This grilled cheese stands out because the brie melts like a dream, and the blackberry-balsamic swirl cuts through the richness for balance. Every bite hits creamy, crunchy, and sweet-savory in just the right way. It’s comfort food with flair, without trying too hard.
Ingredients Needed
For the Sandwich Base:
- 4 slices sourdough bread (or thick country bread – sturdy enough for grilling)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened (for spreading on the outside)
For the Filling:
- 4 oz brie cheese, rind trimmed if desired, sliced thin for easier melting
- 2 tablespoons blackberry preserves (or seedless jam if you prefer smoother texture)
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (store-bought or reduced balsamic vinegar)
Optional Add-ins:
- Fresh thyme leaves (a few sprigs, optional – adds herbal brightness)
- Cracked black pepper (to cut sweetness and add depth)
This combo creates rich layers of flavor without a long list of ingredients. Just good basics, treated right.
How to Make Blackberry Balsamic and Brie Grilled Cheese
1. Prep your bread and filling.
Lay out your sourdough slices on a clean surface. Spread the blackberry preserves evenly on two of the slices. Drizzle a little balsamic glaze over the preserves, it doesn’t need to be perfect, just a light zigzag works. Layer the sliced brie over top. If you’re using thyme, sprinkle a few leaves here.
2. Assemble the sandwiches.
Top with the remaining slices of bread to close each sandwich. Spread softened butter on the outer sides of the bread, this helps it crisp up perfectly when grilled.
3. Heat your skillet.
Place a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Give it a minute to warm up. A well-heated pan helps the bread crisp up evenly without burning before the cheese melts.
4. Grill until golden and gooey.
Place your sandwiches butter-side down in the skillet. Cook for about 3–4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula. Flip once the bottom is golden brown and toasty. The brie should be melted and runny by the time both sides are golden.
5. Rest briefly before serving.
Remove from heat and let sit for 1 minute before slicing. This helps the cheese settle just enough so it doesn’t all spill out when cut.
That’s it, fast, satisfying, and bursting with flavor.
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Blackberry Balsamic and Brie Grilled Cheese
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 sandwiches 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A gourmet take on grilled cheese, this sandwich layers gooey brie with blackberry preserves and a balsamic glaze for the perfect sweet-savory bite.
Ingredients
4 slices sourdough bread
2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
4 oz brie cheese, thinly sliced
2 tbsp blackberry preserves
1 tbsp balsamic glaze
Fresh thyme leaves (optional)
Cracked black pepper (optional)
Instructions
1. Spread blackberry preserves on two slices of bread.
2. Drizzle balsamic glaze over preserves.
3. Layer brie slices evenly on top.
4. Add thyme and pepper if using.
5. Top with remaining bread slices to close the sandwiches.
6. Spread softened butter on the outer sides of bread.
7. Heat skillet over medium heat.
8. Cook sandwiches 3–4 minutes per side until golden and brie is melted.
9. Let rest 1 minute before slicing and serving.
Notes
Trim the brie rind if you prefer a milder flavor.
Use a sturdy bread like sourdough to prevent sogginess.
Reheat leftovers in a skillet or toaster oven, not microwave.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Sandwiches
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Serving and Storage Tips
Serve it hot and gooey:
This grilled cheese is best served fresh off the skillet when the brie is at its meltiest and the bread is still crisp. Slice it diagonally for that perfect café-style presentation. Pair it with a simple arugula salad or a bowl of creamy tomato soup for a comforting, satisfying meal.
Storage:
If you have leftovers, let them cool completely before storing. Wrap each sandwich in foil or place in an airtight container. Keep refrigerated for up to 2 days.
Reheating:
To bring back the crisp exterior, skip the microwave. Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat for 3–4 minutes per side. You can also use a toaster oven or air fryer for even crispier results.
Helpful Notes
- Brie tips: If the rind’s strong flavor isn’t your thing, feel free to trim it off. Brie with rind melts slower but adds character.
- Bread choice: Go for sturdy, crusty bread like sourdough or artisan white. Avoid soft sandwich bread, it can get soggy fast.
- Make it spicy: Add a thin slice of jalapeño or a pinch of chili flakes for a heat kick that contrasts nicely with the sweet jam.
- Homemade balsamic glaze: Simmer ½ cup balsamic vinegar with 1 tablespoon brown sugar until reduced by half. Let it cool to thicken.
This cozy sandwich also makes a beautiful brunch when paired with something light and citrusy, like my Blueberry Lemon Dutch Baby, a total weekend winner. Or, serve it alongside a slice of Sweet Potato Cornbread for a Southern-inspired sweet-savory combo that’s sure to please.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a way to make your grilled cheese feel like a gourmet treat without the stress, this Blackberry Balsamic and Brie Grilled Cheese hits the sweet spot. It’s simple, quick, and packs bold, comforting flavors that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Brie brings the creaminess, blackberry adds the brightness, and balsamic ties it all together beautifully.
Tried this recipe? I’d love to hear from you! Leave a comment below with your star rating and let me know how yours turned out.
Did you add anything fun, maybe a handful of arugula or crispy bacon? Share your twist!
Don’t forget to share this cozy creation on Pinterest or Facebook.
What would you pair this sandwich with? Let’s chat below!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cheese instead of brie?
Yes, but it changes the experience. Brie melts beautifully and adds a buttery flavor. Camembert is a great alternative. If you want something milder, try Havarti or mozzarella, but they won’t offer the same rich creaminess.
How do I make this gluten-free?
Simply swap the sourdough bread for your favorite gluten-free loaf. Make sure it’s thick-cut and sturdy so it holds up during grilling. Everything else in the recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prep the sandwiches ahead by assembling them (without grilling), then wrap and refrigerate. Grill them fresh for best results. Once grilled, they’re best enjoyed immediately, though reheating in a pan works if needed.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Not ideally. The texture of the brie and preserves may change when frozen and reheated. It’s best to enjoy this one fresh or within a day or two. For meal prep, try storing the assembled (but uncooked) sandwich in the fridge for up to 24 hours.