Brie & Raspberry Jam Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Sweet, tart, toasty, and tasty—this Brie & Raspberry Jam Grilled Cheese Sandwich may become your new favorite! Perfect for a quick lunch, a fun dinner, or even a brunch with friends, this sandwich stands out with its delightful combination of creamy brie and tangy raspberry jam. Once you whip up the raspberry jam compote, grilling these sandwiches becomes a breeze.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor Combination – The rich creaminess of brie pairs perfectly with the sweet-tart raspberry jam.
• Quick and Easy – With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy this gourmet sandwich in no time.
• Versatile Meal Option – Ideal for any occasion, be it lunch, dinner, or brunch gatherings.
• Customizable Ingredients – Switch up the cheese or bread to make it your own!
• Impressive Presentation – The vibrant colors and textures make this sandwich visually appealing.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your Brie & Raspberry Jam Grilled Cheese Sandwich efficiently, gather some essential tools that will aid in crafting this delightful meal.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet or frying pan
• Small saucepan
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet or frying pan – A good quality skillet ensures even cooking and perfect toastiness for your sandwich.
• Small saucepan – Perfect for making the raspberry compote without any mess; its size is just right for small batches.
• Spatula – An essential tool for flipping the sandwich without damaging its structure.

Ingredients

For the Raspberry Compote

• 2 Packages (6 ounces each) Driscolls Raspberries
• 1/2 Cup sugar
• 1 Tsp. vanilla extract
• 1/4 Cup orange juice

For the Sandwich

• 2 Slices sourdough or French bread
• 2 Tablespoons mayonnaise
• 2 Ounces Brie (about 4 tablespoons), at room temperature
• 2 – 4 Tbsp. raspberry compote
• 4 Slices manchego cheese, white cheddar cheese, or provolone cheese
• 8 Driscolls Raspberries

How to Make Brie & Raspberry Jam Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Step 1: Prepare the Raspberry Compote

1. PLACE 2 packages (6 ounces each) Driscolls Raspberries into a small saucepan.
2. ADD 1/2 cup sugar.
3. ADD 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
4. ADD 1/4 cup orange juice.
5. COOK over medium heat until gently boiling, about 5 minutes.
6. REDUCE heat to medium low.
7. COOK and STIR occasionally until raspberries break down and mixture thickens to a jam-like consistency, about 15-20 minutes.
8. SET ASIDE raspberry compote to cool to room temperature.

Step 2: Assemble the Sandwich

1. SPREAD mayonnaise on one side of each slice of bread.
2. PLACE brie on the unbuttered side of one slice of bread.
3. ADD 2-4 tablespoons of raspberry compote on top of the brie.
4. LAYER with slices of manchego cheese or your choice of cheese.
5. TOP with remaining slice of bread (mayonnaise side facing out).

Step 3: Grill the Sandwich

1. HEAT skillet over medium heat until hot.
2. PLACE sandwich in skillet and cook until golden brown on one side, about 3-5 minutes.
3. FLIP carefully using a spatula and cook until other side is golden brown and cheeses are melted.

Enjoy your delicious Brie & Raspberry Jam Grilled Cheese Sandwich! It’s sure to impress anyone who takes a bite!

How to Serve Brie & Raspberry Jam Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Serving a Brie & Raspberry Jam Grilled Cheese Sandwich can elevate your meal experience. This sweet and savory delight pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments.

With a Fresh Salad

• A light mixed greens salad adds a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the sandwich.
• Consider adding sliced almonds and a vinaigrette for an extra layer of flavor.

Accompanied by Tomato Soup

• A classic pairing, tomato soup complements the sweetness of the raspberry jam beautifully.
• Serve it warm for dipping, enhancing both textures and flavors.

With Sweet Potato Fries

• Crispy sweet potato fries provide a delightful contrast to the creamy brie.
• Bake or air-fry for a healthier option that still satisfies.

Paired with Fruit Platter

• A colorful fruit platter brings a variety of flavors and textures that harmonize well with the sandwich.
• Include seasonal fruits like apples, pears, and berries for an appealing presentation.

How to Perfect Brie & Raspberry Jam Grilled Cheese Sandwich

To achieve the ultimate Brie & Raspberry Jam Grilled Cheese Sandwich, consider these helpful tips:

• Use high-quality bread: Sourdough or French bread not only holds up well but also enhances flavor.
• Spread mayonnaise evenly: This will create a golden crust on your sandwich when grilled, adding texture.
• Let cheese soften: Ensure brie is at room temperature for easier spreading and melting during grilling.
• Monitor grill heat: Use medium-low heat to avoid burning while allowing cheese to melt thoroughly.
• Add extra toppings: Feel free to experiment with more cheeses or herbs for added flavor depth.

Best Side Dishes for Brie & Raspberry Jam Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Enhance your Brie & Raspberry Jam Grilled Cheese Sandwich with these delicious side dishes. They perfectly complement the flavors and make your meal complete.

1. Crispy Kale Chips: Lightly seasoned kale chips offer a crunchy, nutritious contrast to your sandwich.
2. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing side that balances sweetness and tartness.
3. Pickled Vegetables: Tangy pickles can cut through the richness of the cheese while adding a zesty kick.
4. Roasted Veggies: Oven-roasted carrots, zucchinis, or bell peppers bring warmth and earthiness to your meal.
5. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad with herbs can be a hearty addition that pairs well with the sandwich.
6. Coleslaw: A creamy or vinegar-based coleslaw adds crunch and tanginess to round out your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the perfect Brie & Raspberry Jam Grilled Cheese Sandwich is simple, but a few common mistakes can ruin your experience. Here are some tips to ensure your sandwich turns out delicious.

• Skipping the compote cooling – Not allowing the raspberry compote to cool can make the sandwich soggy. Always let it cool to room temperature for the best texture.
• Choosing the wrong bread – Using bread that is too soft may result in a messy sandwich. Opt for sturdy sourdough or French bread to hold everything together.
• Overheating the grill – Cooking at too high a temperature can burn the bread before the cheese melts. Aim for medium heat to achieve a golden crust and gooey inside.
• Not using enough cheese – A scant amount of Brie or other cheeses will lead to a less creamy sandwich. Make sure to use enough cheese for that melt-in-your-mouth experience.
• Neglecting seasoning – Failing to season your ingredients can dull flavors. Consider adding a pinch of salt or pepper to enhance all the components.
• Forgetting about balance – Having too much jam or cheese can overwhelm the flavors. Aim for a good balance between sweet and savory for a perfect bite.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

Freezing Brie & Raspberry Jam Grilled Cheese Sandwich

• Wrap individual sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag; they can be frozen for up to 1 month.

Reheating Brie & Raspberry Jam Grilled Cheese Sandwich

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the sandwich on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Use this method only if you’re short on time. Heat on medium power for 30-60 seconds, but be aware it may result in a softer texture.
• Stovetop – Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, flipping occasionally, until heated through and crispy, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Brie & Raspberry Jam Grilled Cheese Sandwich special?

This sandwich combines sweet and tart raspberry jam with creamy Brie cheese, creating a delightful contrast of flavors.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! While Brie is recommended, you can experiment with other soft cheeses like camembert or goat cheese for different flavor profiles.

How do I customize my Brie & Raspberry Jam Grilled Cheese Sandwich?

Feel free to add fresh herbs like basil or mint, or even swap out raspberry jam for another fruit jam like strawberry or blueberry.

Can I make this recipe vegan-friendly?

Yes! Use vegan cream cheese and plant-based mayonnaise as substitutes while maintaining all other ingredients.

How long does it take to prepare this sandwich?

The total time is approximately 39 minutes, including prep and cooking time. It’s quick enough for lunch yet fancy enough for brunch gatherings!

Final Thoughts

The Brie & Raspberry Jam Grilled Cheese Sandwich is not only scrumptious but also incredibly versatile. Its combination of flavors makes it suitable for various occasions like lunch, dinner, or even brunch with friends. Feel free to customize it with different cheeses or jams based on your preference—get creative and enjoy!