Grilled brie sandwiches with green apple and fig jam are the perfect combination of melty brie cheese, tart crisp green apples, and sweet fig jam on crusty bread. Ready in under ten minutes and with only a handful of ingredients. The melding of flavors and textures is an absolute banger! I topped these with some fresh peppery arugula sprouts because I had them on hand, and they offer a pop of healthy vibrance.

We are switching things up a bit with this vegetarian twist on a grilled cheese. I don’t often eat a lot of dairy, but this heavenly concoction was calling my name. And let’s be honest, there are some things vegan cheese just can’t do…and to me, that’s replacing a quality brie.

The Ingredients

Brie Cheese

Brie is a soft cheese known for its buttery and mild flavor with the creamiest texture. When it melts, it turns into a velvety smooth, and delicious canvas for our tart green apples and sweet tangy fig jam. I like to keep the rind intact, but some people choose to remove it. Brie is a soft cheese meaning it ripens from the outside in. The rind is actually a mixture of beneficial bacteria and mold that grows during the aging process. It gives the cheese some structure and is completely safe and even potentially healthy to consume.

Fig Jam

Fig jam is THE jam for this sando. It adds a layer of tangy sweetness and complexity to the sandwich. It complements the creaminess of the Brie and balances the flavors of the other ingredients. The fig jam’s sticky texture also helps to hold the sandwich components together.

Green Apple

I prefer green apples, specifically varieties like Granny Smith, for their tartness and crisp texture. The thin slices of green apple provide a refreshing contrast to the rich Brie and sweet fig jam. The natural acidity cuts through the cheese’s richness, adding a bright, tangy element to the sandwich.

Arugula Sprouts

These are optional and I included them for something to make me feel like I wasn’t just eating a grilled cheese. Arugula sprouts are peppery and have a slightly bitter flavor. They have a little subtle crunch that I think balances the figgy jam and melty brie.

Bread

Do yourself a favor and grab some crusty and sturdy bread for this sandwich. You want something that can hold up to the heavier fillings when grilled and not fall apart. I usually have a loaf of rustic bread lying around so that’s what I used here. Slice it thick enough for that satisfying crunch and to balance the warm soft interior.

Instructions

These are super simple to make and don’t take any fancy equipment. Just assemble, grill, and enjoy!

Heat a skillet over medium heat.
Assemble the sandwich by placing a few slices of brie on one piece of bread. Layer the slices of apple on top. Spread half the fig jam on the other piece of bread and place it on top.
Butter both outsides of the sandwich and place in the hot skillet. Grill for a few minutes on each side until golden brown.
Remove from heat and top with fresh arugula sprouts if desired. Slice and enjoy!

Customizations

For health reasons, I am primarily a vegan or plant-based eater, but I do enjoy the occasional vegetarian or pescetarian meal, especially when traveling or eating out and options are slim. However, this is a great example of a recipe that can be made to suit any diet. Here are a few swaps and customization ideas to try.

Vegan: Want a dairy-free alternative? Swap out the brie for a vegan alternative. Our vegan burrata would be a great option for this sandwich.
Gluten Free: Want this sans gluten? Opt for gluten-free bread and you are all set!
Omnivores: meat eaters rejoice! This sandwich is a game changer with a little prosciutto or ham.

Bold Flavors

Switch it up by swapping out different ingredients for new flavors and textures:

Spinach or Arugula: Want more crunch? Add some fresh spinach and arugula in place of the sprouts for extra health-boosting fiber.
Caramelized Onions: Caramelized onions are absolute gold on this sandwich. They take a little more time, but their sweet, savory taste is next level.
Nuts: A sprinkle of chopped walnuts or pecans adds the perfect buttery and nutty crunch.
Jams: Try apricot or blackberry for a different twist.
Bread: Try out crostinis, sourdough, or brioche buns.

Cooking Techniques

You can make these in several different ways. I opted for the skillet on the stove since I was only making two, but if you are feeding a crowd or want a different sear on your sandie, try out:

Panini Press: Using a panini press creates those pretty grill marks and evenly crisps up the sandwiches.
Oven Baking: For a crowd, assemble the sandwiches and bake them in the oven. Brie melts like a dream in the oven.

Pairing Suggestions

White Wine: Who doesn’t want wine with lunch? A crisp, slightly acidic white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay is brie and green apple’s best friend.
Salads: I enjoyed these with a blackberry and mixed green salad. Any light, fresh salad with a simple vinaigrette balances the sandwich’s richness.
Soup: A bowl of butternut squash soup turns this into a Fall classic as a warm, cozy complement.
Fruit: A side of fresh fruit, such as grapes or berries.

Try these other delicious recipes!

Fresh Veggie Spring Rolls with Peanut Dipping Sauce

Lemon Beetroot Hummus

Rainbow Tofu Poke Bowl

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