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Blackberry Balsamic and Brie Grilled Cheese Recipe

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4 from 9 reviews

This Blackberry Balsamic and Brie Grilled Cheese recipe combines the sweetness of blackberries and balsamic vinegar with creamy brie cheese and fresh thyme, all melted between slices of sourdough bread. The homemade blackberry balsamic jam adds a tangy, fruity layer that perfectly complements the richness of the cheese, creating an irresistible gourmet grilled cheese sandwich perfect for a quick lunch or casual dinner.

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, sliced ½ inch thick
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
  • 8 slices sourdough bread
  • Butter, as needed for frying

Instructions

  1. Make the blackberry balsamic jam: In a saucepan, combine the blackberries, balsamic vinegar, sugar, lemon juice, and a pinch of kosher salt. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Gently crush the berries with a wooden spoon or potato masher to help break them down as it cooks.
  2. Simmer jam until thickened: Allow the mixture to simmer for 7 to 10 minutes until it reduces to a thick jam consistency. Keep in mind the jam will thicken further as it cools. Once done, transfer it to a small bowl and set aside to cool.
  3. Prepare brie and heat skillet: Slice the brie into ½ inch thick slices. Heat a skillet over medium heat, avoiding overheating so the bread doesn’t brown too fast before the cheese melts. Depending on skillet size, you may need to cook in batches.
  4. Assemble the first side of the sandwich: Butter one side of four slices of bread and place them butter side down in the heated skillet. Arrange the brie slices evenly on top of the bread and cook slowly until the brie softens and the bread turns golden brown. Sprinkle the chopped fresh thyme over the brie.
  5. Add blackberry jam and complete sandwiches: Spread a thick layer of the cooled blackberry jam on the other four slices of bread. Place the jam-spread side down on top of the brie-covered bread in the skillet. Butter the top sides of these slices, carefully flip the sandwiches, and continue cooking until the bottom sides are golden brown and the brie is completely melted.
  6. Serve: Remove the grilled sandwiches from the skillet and transfer them to a cutting board. Let them cool for a couple of minutes before slicing each sandwich in half with a sharp knife. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious gourmet grilled cheese!

Notes

  • Cook the sandwiches on medium heat to allow the cheese to melt thoroughly without burning the bread.
  • Use ripe, fresh blackberries for the best flavor in the jam.
  • Butter the bread generously for a crispy and golden crust.
  • Fresh thyme adds a lovely herbaceous note, but you may substitute with rosemary or omit if preferred.
  • Prepare the jam ahead of time and store it refrigerated if making in advance.