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, fun dinner, or brunch with friends, this delightful sandwich combines the creamy richness of Brie with the fruity sweetness of raspberry jam, creating a unique flavor experience that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor Combination: The pairing of creamy Brie and sweet raspberry jam creates a blissful taste sensation.
• Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this sandwich in no time.
• Versatile Meal Option: Ideal for any occasion—lunch, dinner, or even brunch gatherings with friends.
• Great for All Ages: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the rich flavors and satisfying textures.
• Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different types of bread or additional toppings to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to gather the right tools. Having everything ready will help streamline your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick skillet: Prevents sticking while grilling the sandwich, making flipping easier.
• Small saucepan: Perfect for cooking down the raspberries into a delicious compote without mess.
• Spatula: Useful for flipping the sandwich without damaging its structure.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient proportions for optimal results.

Ingredients

To prepare your scrumptious Brie & Raspberry Jam Grilled Cheese Sandwich, you’ll need the following 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: Make 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: Prepare the Sandwich

1. SPREAD mayonnaise on one side of each slice of bread.
2. SLATHER about 2–4 tablespoons of raspberry compote on the unbuttered sides of one slice.
3. LAYER Brie cheese and sliced manchego (or alternative cheese) on top of the compote.
4. TOP with another slice of bread, mayonnaise side out.

Step 3: Grill Your Sandwich

1. HEAT a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
2. PLACE the sandwich in the skillet and grill until golden brown, about 3–5 minutes per side.
3. FLIP carefully using a spatula to prevent spillage.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

1. REMOVE from heat once both sides are nicely toasted and cheese is melted.
2. CUT in half if desired and serve warm with additional raspberries on the side.

With these easy steps, you’ll create a mouthwatering Brie & Raspberry Jam Grilled Cheese Sandwich that’s perfect for any meal occasion!

How to Serve Brie & Raspberry Jam Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Serving your Brie & Raspberry Jam Grilled Cheese Sandwich can elevate your meal experience. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that pair well with this sweet and savory treat.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with a variety of greens dressed in olive oil and lemon juice brings freshness.
• Spinach and Strawberry Salad: Spinach, fresh strawberries, nuts, and a balsamic vinaigrette create a delicious contrast.

Add a Soup

• Tomato Basil Soup: The classic tomato soup complements the richness of the brie and balances the sweetness of the raspberry jam.
• Butternut Squash Soup: This creamy soup enhances the flavors of your sandwich with its natural sweetness.

Include Some Snacks

• Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy and slightly sweet, these fries add a crunchy element to your meal.
• Veggie Chips: A healthy crunch that contrasts nicely with the soft texture of the grilled cheese.

How to Perfect Brie & Raspberry Jam Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Perfecting your Brie & Raspberry Jam Grilled Cheese Sandwich is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure you create the best version possible.

• Choose Quality Bread: Opt for fresh sourdough or French bread for ideal texture and flavor.
• Use Room Temperature Brie: Letting brie sit out before use helps it melt beautifully when grilled.
• Control Your Heat: Grill on medium-low heat to ensure even melting without burning the bread.
• Spread Mayonnaise Generously: It creates a crispy crust while adding flavor that enhances each bite.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Mixing different cheeses can add depth; try combining brie with sharp cheddar or creamy provolone.

Best Side Dishes for Brie & Raspberry Jam Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Enhance your meal by pairing your Brie & Raspberry Jam Grilled Cheese Sandwich with delightful side dishes. Here’s a list of options you might consider.

1. Crispy Kale Chips: Lightly seasoned and baked, these chips provide a healthy crunch.
2. Fruit Platter: A selection of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the flavors of your sandwich.
3. Potato Wedges: Roasted or baked potato wedges seasoned with herbs make a hearty side dish.
4. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella drizzled with balsamic glaze offer an Italian twist.
5. Roasted Vegetable Medley: Seasonal veggies roasted to perfection complement the richness of your sandwich.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw brings brightness and texture that pairs wonderfully with grilled cheese.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Brie & Raspberry Jam Grilled Cheese Sandwich, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your sandwich turns out perfectly.

• Overcooking the Raspberries: Cooking the raspberries too long can lead to a burnt taste. Stir occasionally and remove from heat once they reach a jam-like consistency.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Cold brie and butter may not melt properly, leading to an unevenly cooked sandwich. Make sure your brie is at room temperature before spreading it on the bread.
• Not Preheating the Pan: Placing the sandwich in a cold pan can result in soggy bread. Always preheat your skillet for even cooking and a golden crust.
• Skipping the Mayonnaise: Mayonnaise adds flavor and helps achieve a crispy texture. Don’t skip it; spread a thin layer on the outside of the bread for best results.
• Cutting Too Soon: Cutting into your grilled cheese right after cooking can cause the filling to spill out. Let it sit for a minute before slicing to keep everything intact.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover sandwiches in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Ensure they are completely cooled before sealing to avoid moisture buildup.

Freezing Brie & Raspberry Jam Grilled Cheese Sandwich

• Wrap sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 1 month for optimal freshness.

Reheating Brie & Raspberry Jam Grilled Cheese Sandwich

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30-60 seconds, but this may create a softer texture.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about making a Brie & Raspberry Jam Grilled Cheese Sandwich.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like goat cheese or mozzarella for different flavors.

What can I serve with this sandwich?

Serve alongside a simple salad or soup for a well-rounded meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.

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

You can add fresh herbs like basil or mint, or include additional ingredients such as turkey slices or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.

Can I make the raspberry compote ahead of time?

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

Is this sandwich suitable for brunch?

Definitely! The combination of sweet and savory makes it an excellent choice for brunch gatherings with friends.

Final Thoughts

The Brie & Raspberry Jam Grilled Cheese Sandwich is sweet, savory, and utterly delightful. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various cheeses and toppings, making it suitable for any meal of the day. Try this recipe today and enjoy its delicious flavors!