Save A festive and indulgent twist on classic grilled cheese, featuring creamy Brie, crisp apples, and a drizzle of honey, styled to resemble a Christmas candle—perfect for holiday gatherings.
I first served this at a holiday party and it was an instant hit with family and friends.
Ingredients
- Bread: 4 slices sourdough or brioche bread
- Cheese & Filling: 120 g Brie cheese, sliced, 1 small crisp apple (such as Granny Smith) thinly sliced, 2 tbsp honey
- Butter: 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- Garnish (for candle effect optional): 2 small strips roasted red bell pepper (for flame), 2 thin chive stems (for wick)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
- Step 2:
- Lightly butter one side of each bread slice.
- Step 3:
- Place two slices, buttered side down, onto a clean surface. Layer Brie slices evenly, followed by apple slices. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of honey over each.
- Step 4:
- Top with remaining bread slices, buttered side up, pressing gently.
- Step 5:
- Grill sandwiches for 3 4 minutes per side, or until bread is golden brown and cheese is melted. Press gently with a spatula to seal.
- Step 6:
- To style as Christmas candles, trim the sandwiches edges for a clean rectangle, then stand each upright. Use a roasted pepper strip as the flame and a chive as the wick.
- Step 7:
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Save This recipe always brings the family together around the table during the holidays.
Tips for Serving
Pair with a crisp winter salad or mulled wine to complete your festive meal.
Optional Variations
Try using different apples or cheeses to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
Storage Suggestions
Wrap leftovers tightly and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet for best results.
Save This grilled cheese elevates simple ingredients into a memorable festive treat.
Recipe FAQ
- → What type of bread works best?
Sourdough or brioche bread slices are ideal for a crisp exterior and soft interior that complement the Brie and apple.
- → Can I substitute the apple?
Yes, any crisp apple variety like Granny Smith enhances texture and adds a subtle tartness that pairs well with the cheese and honey.
- → How is the candle effect created?
The sandwich edges are trimmed into rectangles, then small strips of roasted red pepper simulate the flame and chive stems act as the wick.
- → Is it possible to add crunch?
Chopped walnuts can be added between the cheese and apple layers to provide an extra crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
- → What cooking equipment is recommended?
A large skillet or griddle along with a spatula helps evenly grill the sandwich to golden perfection.