Roasted Apple and Brie Panini

The first time I bit into this Roasted Apple and Brie Panini, it was like tasting fall on a plate. Sweet apples roasted until tender, creamy brie melting into every crevice of the bread, and a crunchy, golden crust that holds it all together—it’s the kind of sandwich that makes you pause between bites to savor every flavor. The warmth of the toasted bread, combined with the richness of the cheese and the natural sweetness of the apple, creates an indulgent yet surprisingly simple lunch or dinner option.

I love how this recipe brings together comfort and elegance in such a humble format. It’s perfect for when I want something cozy but still want to feel like I’m treating myself. Whether you're serving this to guests or making a solo meal feel special, this panini is sure to become a staple in your seasonal rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Roasted Apple and Brie Panini

This panini is the definition of savory-meets-sweet done right. The roasted apples develop an irresistible caramelized edge, while the brie turns creamy and gooey, offering a luxurious texture. Add a hint of crunch from toasted bread and perhaps a sprinkle of chopped nuts, and you've got a sandwich that’s anything but ordinary. It’s great for entertaining or elevating your weekday lunch.

What Kind of Bread Should I Use?

The best bread for this panini is one with structure and a slight tang—think sourdough or a hearty whole grain. You want something that can hold up to the juicy apples and gooey cheese without getting soggy. If you have a cinnamon raisin bread or a pecan-studded loaf, those are fun choices that add even more depth.

Options for Substitutions

If you don’t have brie on hand, camembert or even a creamy goat cheese can work well. Prefer a sharper edge? Try aged cheddar. As for the apples, Honeycrisp or Fuji work best for that sweet-tart balance, but any firm apple will do. You can also add a layer of fig jam or a swipe of Dijon mustard to give the sandwich a different kind of kick. And if you're craving some crunch, a few toasted walnuts or pecans add a satisfying texture.

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Ingredients for this Roasted Apple and Brie Panini

Apples – Roasting enhances their sweetness and adds a tender bite that contrasts beautifully with the crispy bread.

Brie Cheese – This rich, buttery cheese melts perfectly and brings a creamy texture that balances the sweetness of the apples.

Bread (Sourdough or Multigrain) – A sturdy bread that crisps well while holding all the juicy and gooey components together.

Butter or Olive Oil – Essential for grilling the panini to a golden, crispy finish.

Honey or Fig Jam (optional) – Adds a layer of sweetness and moisture that elevates the overall flavor profile.

Pecans or Walnuts (optional) – For a bit of crunch and a nutty dimension that complements the roasted apples.

Cinnamon or Nutmeg (optional) – A dash of warm spice brings out the cozy fall flavors even more.

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Step 1: Roast the Apples

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the apples thinly and place them on a baking sheet. Lightly drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg if desired. Roast for about 15 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.

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Step 2: Prepare the Bread

While the apples roast, spread a light layer of butter or olive oil on the outside of each bread slice. This ensures that perfect golden crisp once the panini hits the heat.

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Step 3: Layer the Sandwich

On the unbuttered side of one bread slice, layer slices of brie generously. Top with roasted apple slices, a drizzle of honey or a spoonful of fig jam if you're using them, and a sprinkle of chopped nuts. Cap with the second slice of bread, buttered side out.

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Step 4: Grill the Panini

Heat a panini press or grill pan over medium heat. Place the sandwich in and press firmly. Cook for 3–4 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden and the cheese is melty. If you're using a skillet, press down with a spatula or a weighted pan.

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Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Remove from heat and let the panini sit for a minute before slicing. This helps everything settle and makes slicing easier. Cut in half and serve warm. Great with a side salad, soup, or some extra roasted apple slices.

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How Long to Prepare the Roasted Apple and Brie Panini

Preparation Time:
Roasting the apples takes about 15 minutes, but you can do this in advance to save time. While the apples roast, you can prep the bread, slice the cheese, and set up your panini press or skillet. Altogether, the prep work should take around 10 minutes if you're multitasking.

Cooking Time:
Grilling the sandwich usually takes about 3–4 minutes per side. If you're using a panini press, it may be slightly faster. The key is achieving a golden crust and fully melted brie without burning the bread. Total cooking time is about 6–8 minutes.

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Tips for Perfect Roasted Apple and Brie Panini

• Use thin apple slices so they soften and roast evenly.
• Let the brie sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before assembling to help it melt faster.
• Don't overload the sandwich. Too many fillings can cause it to fall apart during grilling.
• Press gently but firmly if you don’t have a panini press—use a heavy skillet to mimic the effect.
• Wipe down your grill surface between batches if making multiple sandwiches to avoid burnt bits.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Using too soft a bread. It can get soggy or collapse under heat. Stick with sturdy options.
• Overstuffing with apples or cheese. This can cause uneven cooking and messy results.
• Skipping the butter or oil on the bread. You need that fat to get a crispy, golden crust.
• High heat. It’ll burn the bread before the cheese melts. Medium heat is your friend.
• Cutting the panini too soon. Let it rest for a minute after grilling so the cheese doesn't ooze out immediately.

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What to Serve With Roasted Apple and Brie Panini?

1. Butternut Squash Soup

A creamy, spiced soup that pairs beautifully with the sandwich's sweet and savory profile.

2. Mixed Greens Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette

Fresh and tangy, this salad cuts through the richness of the brie.

3. Sweet Potato Fries

Crispy and earthy, they echo the fall flavors of the panini.

4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts

A slightly bitter bite adds a great contrast.

5. Sparkling Apple Cider

For a refreshing beverage that ties in with the apple theme.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigeration:
If you have leftover sandwiches, wrap them tightly in foil or an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Keep in mind the bread may lose some of its crispness.

Reheating:
For best results, reheat in a skillet or toaster oven to revive that crispy crust. Microwave is not ideal as it softens the bread.

Freezing:
Not recommended for this sandwich, as the brie and roasted apples do not thaw well and can become mushy.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per sandwich (approximate values):

• Calories: 450–500 kcal
• Protein: 14g
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Sugar: 10g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: 500mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prevent the bread from burning?

Use medium heat and always butter the outside of the bread. Press gently and check frequently.

Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?

You can roast the apples and slice the cheese ahead, but assemble and grill fresh for best texture.

What apples work best?

Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Pink Lady apples hold their shape and give a nice balance of sweet and tart.

Do I need a panini press?

No, a skillet and another heavy pan or spatula will work. Just press firmly while cooking.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely—just use a sturdy gluten-free bread that toasts well and holds up under pressure.

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Conclusion

The Roasted Apple and Brie Panini is a comforting, gourmet-level sandwich you can pull off with minimal effort. Its unique blend of textures and flavors makes it perfect for fall or whenever you're craving something sweet, savory, and melty. With just a few ingredients and a little bit of love, you’ll have a meal that feels indulgent but is incredibly easy to make. Whether you're entertaining or treating yourself, this panini hits all the right notes.

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