Name: Apple Butter Grilled Cheese Sandwich with Sliced Apples and Cinnamon Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 slices of hearty whole-grain bread; 2 tablespoons apple butter; 2 slices sharp cheddar cheese; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened; 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional); A pinch of salt; 1/4 cup sliced apples (like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), for added crunch (optional)

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Introduction

This Apple Butter Grilled Cheese offers a delightful twist on the classic comfort food. Combining sharp cheddar with sweet apple butter and optional crisp apple slices, it delivers a perfect balance of savory and sweet. It’s an easy, flavorful sandwich that’s ready in minutes.

The image shows two halves of a grilled cheese sandwich on a white rectangular tray, stacked slightly to show the melted cheese and dark caramelized onion inside. The sandwiches have a golden-brown crust with a slightly crispy texture. There are several slices of red apple arranged around the tray, with some resting on the tray and one slice leaning against the sandwich. A small white cup with a dark, thick chutney or sauce sits near the sandwich, with a spoon beside it and a small dollop on the tray. Around the tray, there are whole red apples, two blocks of cheese in packaging, a red onion with a loose outer skin, and sprigs of green thyme. The tray is placed on a gray cloth on a white marbled surface. The image displays natural light with soft shadows and a clean look, photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 slices of hearty whole-grain bread
2 tablespoons apple butter
2 slices sharp cheddar cheese
1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
A pinch of salt
1/4 cup sliced apples (like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), for added crunch (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Start by spreading 1 tablespoon of softened butter evenly on one side of each slice of whole-grain bread.
Step 2: On the unbuttered side of one slice, spread 2 tablespoons of apple butter evenly. Then, layer the 2 slices of sharp cheddar cheese on top.
Step 3: If using, place the thinly sliced apples on top of the cheese and sprinkle a small pinch of cinnamon over them for extra warmth.
Step 4: Close the sandwich with the second slice of bread, buttered side facing up, creating a sandwich with the apple butter and cheese in the middle.
Step 5: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, place the sandwich in the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes until the bottom is golden brown and the cheese starts to melt.
Step 6: Carefully flip the sandwich and grill the other side for another 3-4 minutes until both sides are crispy and the cheese is fully melted.
Step 7: Remove the sandwich from the skillet, let it cool for a minute, then slice in half and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

Use a non-stick skillet or add a small amount of extra butter if your pan tends to stick for a perfectly golden crust.
Swap sharp cheddar for aged gouda or gruyere for a different flavor profile.
Add a sprinkle of crushed walnuts inside for extra crunch and nutty flavor.
For a vegan version, use dairy-free butter, a plant-based cheese alternative, and check that the bread contains no animal products.

Storage

Store any leftover grilled cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in a toaster oven to maintain crispiness. Microwaving may result in a soggy sandwich.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of a grilled cheese sandwich with two thick, golden-brown slices of bread. The top slice is being pulled away by a woman's hand, revealing stretchy, melted white cheese oozing between the layers. The sandwich is placed on a clean white paper towel on a white marbled surface, with a knife beside it. The bread has a crispy, toasted texture with an even brown color on the outside. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular bread instead of whole-grain?

Yes, regular white or sourdough bread works well if you prefer a lighter texture, though whole-grain adds more flavor and nutrition.

What type of apple butter is best for this sandwich?

Choose a high-quality apple butter with a smooth texture and balanced sweetness. Homemade or store-bought varieties both work great.