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 combines the creamy goodness of brie with the delightful sweetness of raspberry jam. Its unique flavor profile and easy preparation make it a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor Combination: The richness of brie paired with the tangy raspberry jam creates a truly delightful taste experience.
• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this grilled cheese in under 40 minutes.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it for lunch, dinner, or brunch—it fits perfectly into any meal plan.
• Impressive Presentation: Serve it to guests for an elegant yet casual dining experience that looks as good as it tastes.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to swap in your favorite types of bread or cheeses to match your preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking process smoother, gather the essential tools required for crafting this delicious sandwich.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick skillet
• Small saucepan
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick skillet: Prevents cheese from sticking and allows for easy flipping of the sandwich.
• Small saucepan: Ideal for cooking down the raspberries into a smooth compote without burning.
• Spatula: Helps in flipping the sandwich effortlessly while grilling.

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 is thickened to a jam-like consistency, about 15-20 minutes.
8. SET ASIDE raspberry compote to cool to room temperature.

Step 2: Assemble Your Sandwich

1. SPREAD mayonnaise evenly on one side of each slice of bread.
2. TURN one slice over so the mayonnaise side is down.
3. SPREAD brie on top of that slice followed by 2-4 tablespoons of raspberry compote.
4. LAYER with manchego cheese (or your choice) on top of the compote.
5. ADD the second slice of bread on top with mayonnaise facing out.

Step 3: Grill Your Sandwich

1. HEAT the non-stick skillet over medium heat.
2. PLACE the assembled sandwich in the skillet once hot.
3. GRILL until golden brown on one side, about 3-4 minutes; flip using a spatula carefully.
4. COOK the other side until golden brown and cheese is melted, another 3-4 minutes.

Enjoy your deliciously cheesy creation!

How to Serve Brie & Raspberry Jam Grilled Cheese Sandwich

This delicious brie and raspberry jam grilled cheese sandwich is versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. Whether it’s a cozy lunch at home or a gathering with friends, these serving suggestions will elevate your experience.

With a Simple Salad

• A fresh garden salad pairs well with the rich flavors of the sandwich. Toss together mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.

Accompanied by Sweet Potato Fries

• Crispy sweet potato fries add a satisfying crunch. Simply bake or fry them until golden and serve alongside your sandwich for a hearty meal.

As Part of a Brunch Spread

• Serve mini versions of the sandwich on a platter with assorted fruits and cheeses for an inviting brunch option that your guests will love.

Paired with Soup

• A warm tomato basil or butternut squash soup makes for a comforting combination. Dip your grilled cheese into the soup for an extra layer of flavor.

With Fresh Berries

• Enhance the berry theme by serving fresh raspberries or other berries on the side. This adds freshness and complements the jam in your sandwich perfectly.

How to Perfect Brie & Raspberry Jam Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Creating the perfect brie and raspberry jam grilled cheese sandwich is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your sandwich stands out.

• Choose Quality Bread: Opt for fresh sourdough or French bread, as it provides the ideal base with its chewy texture and ability to hold up against gooey fillings.

• Spread Evenly: When applying mayonnaise, make sure it’s spread evenly on both slices of bread. This ensures consistent browning and flavor throughout your grilled cheese.

• Use Room Temperature Brie: Allow the brie to come to room temperature before grilling. This helps it melt beautifully, creating that luscious, gooey texture you desire.

• Balance Flavors: Use just enough raspberry jam compote to complement the brie without overpowering it. A thin layer works best for maintaining balance in flavors.

• Control Heat: Grill on medium-low heat to allow the bread to toast evenly while giving the cheese time to melt without burning the exterior.

Best Side Dishes for Brie & Raspberry Jam Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Complementing your brie and raspberry jam grilled cheese sandwich with delicious sides can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Mixed Green Salad
   A light salad with greens, cucumbers, and a vinaigrette dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the sandwich.

2. Tomato Soup
   Classic tomato soup is perfect for dipping! It brings warmth and acidity that balances out the richness of the cheese.

3. Sweet Potato Chips
   Crunchy sweet potato chips provide a fun texture variation that pairs nicely with this savory-sweet sandwich.

4. Fruit Platter
   A colorful assortment of seasonal fruits not only looks appealing but also adds natural sweetness that complements the flavors in your sandwich.

5. Pickles or Olives
   Tangy pickles or olives bring acidity that cuts through the richness, making each bite more interesting.

6. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers add color and nutrition while enhancing overall flavor profiles at your table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Brie & Raspberry Jam Grilled Cheese Sandwich, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for. Here’s how to ensure your sandwich turns out perfectly.

• Overlooking the bread choice: Using stale or soggy bread can ruin the texture. Always select fresh, crusty sourdough or French bread for the best results.

• Using cold cheese: Starting with cold brie can lead to uneven melting. Make sure to let your brie come to room temperature before grilling for a creamy consistency.

• Burning the sandwich: Cooking at too high a heat may burn the outside while leaving the cheese unmelted. Cook on medium-low heat for even browning and melted cheese.

• Skipping the raspberry compote: The sweet and tart flavors of raspberry jam elevate this sandwich. Don’t skip making it; it adds essential flavor and moisture.

• Neglecting seasoning: A pinch of salt in the raspberry compote enhances its flavor. Don’t forget to season properly for a balanced taste!

• Not pressing down while grilling: Failing to press down on the sandwich can result in uneven cooking. Use a spatula to gently press down, ensuring thorough grilling.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover Brie & Raspberry Jam Grilled Cheese Sandwich in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Brie & Raspberry Jam Grilled Cheese Sandwich

• Wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 1 month for best quality.

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: Heat on medium power for 30-60 seconds, checking regularly to avoid sogginess.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through and crispy again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making a Brie & Raspberry Jam Grilled Cheese Sandwich:

What type of cheese works best with this grilled cheese?

Brie is the star here, but you can also use white cheddar or provolone for added depth of flavor.

Can I use different fruits for the compote?

Absolutely! Try strawberries or blueberries as delicious alternatives that pair well with brie.

How do I make my sandwich extra crispy?

For extra crispiness, spread a thin layer of mayonnaise both inside and outside of the bread before grilling.

Can I prepare the raspberry compote ahead of time?

Yes! The raspberry compote can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Final Thoughts

This Brie & Raspberry Jam Grilled Cheese Sandwich is not only delicious but also highly customizable. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or add herbs like thyme for added flair. This recipe is perfect for lunch, dinner, or brunch gatherings with friends. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!