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A stacked Apple and Cranberry Grilled Cheese sandwich cut in half, revealing gooey cheese, fruit, and garnished with thyme.
Reda

Apple and Cranberry Grilled Cheese

A delightful twist on classic grilled cheese, this sandwich combines sharp cheddar with crisp Granny Smith apple slices and sweet-tart dried cranberries, all grilled to golden perfection.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 18 minutes
Servings: 2 sandwiches
Course: Breakfast, lunch, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 590
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Sandwiches
  • 4 slices sourdough bread or country white bread
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter softened
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional, for a savory kick)
  • 4 oz sharp white cheddar cheese thinly sliced or shredded
  • 1/2 medium Granny Smith apple cored and thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp dried cranberries

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Spatula
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife

Method
 

Assemble the Sandwiches
  1. Butter one side of each bread slice generously. On the unbuttered side of two slices, spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard if using.
  2. Place two slices of bread, butter-side down, in a cold large skillet. Layer each with half (approximately 2 oz) of the sharp cheddar cheese.
  3. Arrange half of the thinly sliced apple over the cheese on each sandwich, then sprinkle with half of the dried cranberries. Top with the remaining sharp cheddar cheese.
  4. Place the remaining two slices of bread on top, butter-side up.
Grill to Perfection
  1. Heat the skillet over medium-low heat. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Adjust the heat as needed to prevent burning while ensuring the cheese fully melts.
  2. Carefully flip the sandwiches using a spatula and cook for another 4-5 minutes, until the second side is golden and the cheese is completely melted.
Serve
  1. Remove the grilled cheese from the skillet. Let rest for a minute on a cutting board, then slice in half diagonally and serve warm.

Notes

For an extra touch, you can lightly toast the apple slices in a small pan with a pinch of cinnamon before assembling the sandwich. This also helps soften them slightly.