Name: Blackberry Balsamic and Brie Grilled Cheese Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups blackberries; 3 tbsp balsamic vinegar; 6 tbsp sugar; 2 tbsp lemon juice; Pinch of kosher salt; 300 g double cream brie cheese; 1 tbsp chopped fresh thyme; 8 slices sourdough bread; Butter, as needed for frying

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 3 reviews

If you are looking for a grilled cheese sandwich that bursts with flavor and sophistication, the Blackberry Balsamic and Brie Grilled Cheese Recipe is an absolute game changer. This delightful combination of creamy brie cheese, sweet and tangy blackberry balsamic jam, and fragrant fresh thyme nestled between perfectly toasted sourdough slices creates a symphony of tastes and textures that’s impossible to resist. Whether you’re craving a comforting lunch or a unique appetizer, this recipe elevates the humble grilled cheese into something truly extraordinary.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white bowl filled with shiny black blackberries, each berry showing small, round segments and a deep purple-black color. A thin green stem with tiny pink flowers rests on top of the berries, adding a touch of soft color. Two extra blackberries lie outside the bowl on crumpled brown paper placed over a white marbled surface. Part of a woman's hand touches the top left corner of the image, holding a sandwich with visible layers of bread and fillings. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of the Blackberry Balsamic and Brie Grilled Cheese Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient contributes a unique layer to the final flavor—from the tart sweetness of the blackberries to the rich creaminess of the brie, every component matters.

2 cups blackberries: Fresh or frozen, these provide natural sweetness and vibrant color for the jam.
3 tbsp balsamic vinegar: Adds tang and depth to balance the blackberries’ sweetness.
6 tbsp sugar: Sweetens the jam to a perfect consistency and flavor.
2 tbsp lemon juice: Brightens the jam and enhances the berry flavors.
Kosher salt: Just a pinch to bring out all the flavors.
300 g double cream brie cheese: Creamy and mild, melts beautifully for that indulgent grilled cheese experience.
1 tbsp chopped fresh thyme: Adds an herby aromatic note that pairs wonderfully with brie and blackberries.
8 slices sourdough bread: Its sturdy texture holds the sandwich together and crisps up golden in the pan.
Butter, as needed: For grilling the bread to buttery perfection and golden brown color.

How to Make Blackberry Balsamic and Brie Grilled Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Make the Blackberry Balsamic Jam

Start by combining the blackberries, balsamic vinegar, sugar, lemon juice, and a pinch of kosher salt in a saucepan. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to maintain a simmer. Using a wooden spoon or potato masher, gently crush the berries to release their juices as they cook down.

Step 2: Simmer Until Thickened

Allow the blackberry mixture to simmer for 7 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll notice the liquid reducing and thickening into a luscious jam. Keep in mind it will continue to thicken as it cools, so aim for a consistency slightly looser than you want to serve. Once ready, transfer the jam to a bowl and let it cool while you prepare the sandwich.

Step 3: Prepare the Brie and Bread

Slice the brie cheese into half-inch thick pieces for an even melt. Heat a skillet over medium heat, ensuring it doesn’t get too hot to avoid burning the bread before the cheese melts. Butter one side of four slices of sourdough bread and place them butter-side down in the skillet. Add the brie slices on top and sprinkle with fresh thyme to infuse the sandwich with herbaceous aroma.

Step 4: Assemble and Grill the Sandwich

Spread a generous layer of your homemade blackberry balsamic jam on the remaining four slices of bread. Place the jam-spread slices jam-side down over the melting brie on the skillet. Butter the top side of each slice and carefully flip the sandwiches once the bottom is golden brown. Cook until the second side achieves a perfect golden crust and the brie is melted and gooey.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the grilled sandwiches to a cutting board and let them rest for a couple of minutes. Then slice each sandwich in half for easy eating. The combination of sweet jam, melted brie, and crisp sourdough creates a flavor experience you’ll want to savor bite after bite.

How to Serve Blackberry Balsamic and Brie Grilled Cheese Recipe

The image shows a tall stack of four grilled cheese sandwiches, each made from thick slices of light golden toasted bread. Between each bread layer, there is a deep purple blackberry jam spread that looks thick and slightly uneven, along with melted creamy white cheese that oozes out in places. The bread texture is porous and soft inside with a slightly crispy crust. The sandwiches are stacked on a brown paper surface with scattered fresh blackberries and small sprigs of purple flowers around it. In the background, part of a white cheese round and a white bowl filled with blackberries sit against a white marbled textured backdrop. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A light sprinkle of fresh thyme leaves or a few whole blackberries on the plate adds a stunning touch that complements the flavors and makes your presentation pop. A drizzle of balsamic glaze can elevate appearance and taste further if you want to impress guests.

Side Dishes

A simple mixed green salad tossed with a balsamic vinaigrette pairs beautifully to balance the richness of the brie. Alternatively, a warm bowl of tomato soup or roasted vegetable medley creates a comforting, classic combo that feels like a perfect lunch or light dinner.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider cutting the sandwiches into smaller squares and serving them as elegant bite-sized appetizers for a dinner party. You can also add a layer of arugula or thinly sliced apples for an extra crunch and freshness that complements the creamy cheese and sweet jam in this Blackberry Balsamic and Brie Grilled Cheese Recipe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (which might be tough), wrap the sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This will maintain freshness without the bread becoming soggy too quickly.

Freezing

For longer storage, wrap each sandwich individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. Keep in mind that texture may change slightly after thawing but reheated properly still tastes wonderful.

Reheating

The best way to reheat your Blackberry Balsamic and Brie Grilled Cheese Recipe is in a skillet over medium-low heat. This ensures the bread crisps up again while allowing the cheese to melt fully. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve the sandwich’s signature texture.

FAQs

Can I use other berries instead of blackberries?

Absolutely! Raspberries, blueberries, or even a mixed berry blend would work well to create a similar jam with unique flavor nuances. Just adjust the sugar slightly based on berry sweetness.

What type of brie is best for this grilled cheese?

Choose a double cream brie for its rich, creamy melt and mild flavor that complements the sweet-tart jam. Avoid overly aged brie, which can have a stronger taste that might overpower the sandwich.

Is sourdough the only bread option?

Sourdough provides a sturdy, tangy base that crisps well but you can experiment with other artisan breads like ciabatta or a country white loaf depending on your preference and availability.

How do I avoid the bread burning before the cheese melts?

Keep the skillet at medium or medium-low heat and be patient. Cooking slowly allows the cheese to melt evenly without charring the bread. Using a lid briefly can speed melting too if needed.

Can I make the blackberry balsamic jam ahead of time?

Definitely! The jam can be made a day or two in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This actually helps the flavors deepen and makes sandwich assembly faster.

Final Thoughts

This Blackberry Balsamic and Brie Grilled Cheese Recipe is one of those dishes that turns simple ingredients into something special and memorable. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, it’s bound to become a beloved favorite for those who appreciate a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and creamy. So grab your skillet and get ready to delight your taste buds with this irresistible twist on classic comfort food.

Blackberry Balsamic and Brie Grilled Cheese Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need