Blackberry Balsamic Brie Grilled Cheese (Printable)

Creamy Brie, sweet-tart blackberries and honey-balsamic reduction tucked between golden, buttery slices of bread.

# What You'll Need:

→ Sandwich

01 - 4 slices artisan bread (such as sourdough or country loaf)
02 - 4 ounces Brie cheese, sliced
03 - 1/2 cup fresh blackberries
04 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

→ Balsamic Reduction

05 - 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
06 - 1 tablespoon honey

# How to Make It:

01 - Combine balsamic vinegar and honey in a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until reduced by half and syrupy, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool.
02 - Gently mash blackberries in a bowl using a fork, leaving some larger pieces for added texture.
03 - Spread a thin layer of softened butter onto one side of each bread slice. Arrange sliced Brie evenly on the unbuttered sides. Layer mashed blackberries on two bread slices and drizzle each with a portion of the balsamic reduction.
04 - Top with remaining bread slices, keeping the buttered sides facing outward to prepare for toasting.
05 - Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place assembled sandwiches onto the hot surface and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until the bread is crisp and golden and the Brie is melted.
06 - Slice each sandwich in half and serve promptly while warm.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • You get gooey, decadent cheese and bright, juicy berries balanced with a touch of tang, like an inside joke for your tastebuds.
  • There&aposs no fussing: it looks fancy, but you&aposs have it on your plate in less than half an hour, even on a busy evening.
02 -
  • I once tried rushing the balsamic reduction and ended up with bitter, burnt syrup; patience pays off here.
  • If you slice the brie too thick, it can take ages to melt—thin ribbons save you from a cold center.
03 -
  • If your brie is extra gooey, pop it in the freezer for 5 minutes to make slicing tidier.
  • The biggest secret: wipe your pan between batches to avoid dark, burnt butter flavors in your perfectly golden next round.