01 -
Start by preparing your core ingredients. Toss 1 medium Honeycrisp apple, cored and thinly sliced, with 1/2 tsp fresh lemon juice to prevent browning. Remove the rind from 6 oz Brie cheese and slice it evenly. If not already, lightly toast 1/4 cup chopped pecans for enhanced flavor.
02 -
In a small bowl, combine 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened, with 1 tsp Dijon mustard. This savory-sweet spread will create a beautifully golden and flavorful crust for your Gourmet Apple Brie Grilled Cheese Sandwich, adding an extra layer of complexity.
03 -
Spread the Dijon-butter mixture evenly on one side of each of the 4 slices artisan sourdough bread. On the unbuttered side of two of the bread slices, spread 2 tbsp fig jam. These will be the bottom halves of your sandwiches.
04 -
On the fig jam-spread bread slices, layer half of the sliced 6 oz Brie cheese, followed by half of the thinly sliced 1 medium Honeycrisp apple. Sprinkle with half of the 1/4 cup chopped pecans and 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves, finely chopped. Season with a pinch of sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.
05 -
Top with the remaining bread slices (butter-side out). Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook each Gourmet Apple Brie Grilled Cheese Sandwich for 3-4 minutes per side, until the bread is golden brown and the Brie cheese is melted and wonderfully gooey.
06 -
Carefully remove the sandwiches from the skillet. Drizzle each warm Gourmet Apple Brie Grilled Cheese Sandwich with 1 tbsp balsamic glaze. For optimal flavor and texture, let them rest for a minute before slicing in half and serving immediately.