This grilled apple cheddar panini sandwich is a fun twist on the classic grilled cheese sandwich. Perfect lunch for a Fall day!

This recipe was originally posted in 2013, but has since been updated.
Up in these northern parts we like to pair our slice of apple pie with a slice of cheddar instead of a dollop of ice cream. I talk like this is normal, but in reality I've never even had the combo. Give me the ice cream, cheese belongs on a pizza pie not an apple.
In any sense, I thought I would see what all the fuss was about by trying it in a sandwich form. In honor of my good friend Kay-ran's favorite quote.."A pie without cheese is like a hug without a squeeze."
What makes this apple cheddar sandwich delicious and healthy
- fresh apple (I like McIntosh, honeycrisp, or cortland)
- whole wheat bread
- shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- cinnamon
How to make this grilled apple cheddar sandwich
Start by thinly slicing your fresh apple of choice. You won't need the whole apple, so you either slice half, make a couple sandwiches, or make like me, and snack on the rest!
Add ¼ cup to ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese (depending on how cheesy you like your sammich) between two slices of whole wheat bread. I'm a big fan of whole wheat peasant bread, or even whole wheat sourdough! To one slice, add fresh apple slices, and sprinkle with ⅛ to ¼ teaspoon of cinnamon.

Heat a large skillet over medium-low heat, and coat with a good dose of cooking spray. Sandwich both slices of bread together, and add to the skillet. Top with a heavy pan, like a cast iron, or you can also use another skillet topped with a large can to weigh down the skillet, and press your sandwich panini-style. Alternatively, use a panini press. Cook on each side for 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown, and crispy.

Pro Tips
- You can also use sliced cheddar cheese instead of shredded. I just like how shredded evenly melts. Just make sure you add cheese to both slices of bread to prevent any sogginess.
- Switch up the type of apple you use for a different flavor, or even try with sliced pears.
FAQs
I don't have a panini press! Can I still make this?
Absolutely! You can cook in a skillet, and simply top your sandwich with a heavy pan, like cast iron, or use another skillet weighed down with a couple large cans or jars to get that panini-style press.
How long does this sandwich last?
Around these parts, about 5 minutes. 🙂 It is really best enjoyed immediately after cooking, but if you do have leftovers, I would keep at most overnight. Reheat in a dry skillet over medium-low heat for 2-3 minutes per side, or until warmed through.
Can I use any other kinds of cheese?
The sky is the limit. If you're looking for other fruit grilled cheese inspo, you can check out this Blueberry Basil & Goat Cheese Panini too!

Money-Saving Tips for this Grilled Apple Cheddar Sandwich
Buy in season. Make the most of apple season, or what apples are on sale that week to maximize freshness, flavor, and cost.
Buy in bulk. If you use cinnamon frequently, purchasing a larger container instead of smaller can be a more cost-effective option.
more sandwich recipes:
Blueberry Basil & Goat Cheese Panini
Broccoli Cheddar Waffle Grilled Cheese
Black Pepper & Cranberry Turkey Sandwich
Did you make this recipe? Leave me a comment and a rating to let me know how it came out!

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PrintGrilled Apple and Cheddar Sandwich
- Total Time: 11 minutes
- Yield: 1 sandwich 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This apple cheddar panini sandwich is a twist on the classic grilled cheese, and makes the perfect lunch for a Fall day.
Ingredients
- ¼ apple, sliced thin (I used Cortland or Granny Smith)
- ¼ cup-½ cup sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 slices whole wheat bread
- cinnamon, to taste
Instructions
- Cut apple into thin slices.
- Top both slices of bread with cheese, and top one slices with apple slices.
- Sprinkle with cinnamon, and top with other slice of bread.
- Grill in panini press, or in a skillet coated with cooking spray over medium heat until golden brown on each side 2-3 minutes.
- If cooking in skillet, use a heavy pan like cast iron or weigh down another skillet with large cans to press sandwich.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Category: Sandwiches
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 322
- Sugar: 12
- Sodium: 520
- Fat: 11
- Saturated Fat: 5
- Unsaturated Fat: 6
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 45
- Fiber: 6
- Protein: 15
- Cholesterol: 30
Keywords: sandwich, grilled cheese, cheddar, apple, recipe
MJ
Thrilled I got to sample your apple&cheddar delight! Yes, it did taste like Autum,delicious indeed.
No, I have not had cheese on my apple pie, but would love to give it whirl.
All morning I keep hearing " Down by the Bay,where the watermelons grow..." Raffi sing along, haaaa
Not sure why, but it's cute, like you! Great tips you mentioned on Stone Soup blog,helpful stuffing,ooops, stuff!
Hannah @ CleanEatingVeggieGirl
Yum!! The apple and cheese (usually vegan "cheese" for me) combo is so, SO good!
Sinful Nutrition
I don't know what took me so long to try it out. Glad I did!!
Allie
ohmygosh that panini looks soooo freakin' good! NEED IT
Sinful Nutrition
Don't think that's whole 30 friendly!
Katie
I've never had pie with cheese (i know its a thing, I've just never seen it). I recently did a blackberry and goat cheese grilled cheese that was delicious.
Utley
Lurve seeing this yummy updated version and you back in action on the blog<3
★★★★★