Apricot Chutney Ham and Cheese Grilled Sandwich
A gourmet grilled sandwich featuring tangy apricot chutney, creamy goat cheese, and maple-glazed ham on sourdough bread. The exterior gets a unique spiced caramel crust from cinnamon sugar that caramelizes as it cooks, creating a sweet-savory combination perfect for lunch or a special brunch. The apricot preserves mixed with ginger and vinegar create a bright, complex flavor that this beyond ordinary ham and cheese.
Ingredients
- ½ cup apricot preserves
- 2 tablespoons cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 8 slices sourdough bread
- 6 tablespoons butter, divided
- 8 ounces goat cheese
- 12 slices deli-style ham, preferably maple glazed
Instructions
- 1
Mix apricot preserves, vinegar and ginger in a small bowl and set aside
- 2
Combine sugar and cinnamon in another small bowl and set aside
- 3
Butter one side of each bread slice and spread goat cheese on the other side
- 4
Spread about 2 tablespoons apricot chutney over goat cheese and layer three slices ham on top
- 5
Close sandwiches and sprinkle cinnamon sugar mixture over the outside
- 6
Heat large skillet over medium heat and melt remaining butter
- 7
Cook 2 sandwiches at a time for 3-5 minutes per side, covering pan between flips until golden brown and slightly gooey
- 8
Repeat with remaining sandwiches, keeping first batch warm in toaster oven on low and serve immediately
Tips
Use day-old sourdough bread for better structure that won't get soggy from the chutney.
Keep cooked sandwiches warm in a 200°F oven while preparing remaining batches.
Press sandwiches gently with spatula while cooking to help cinnamon sugar caramelize evenly.
Good to Know
Refrigerate assembled sandwiches up to 4 hours before cooking. Store leftover chutney refrigerated for 1 week.
Prepare chutney mixture and cinnamon sugar up to 2 days ahead. Assemble sandwiches morning of serving.
Serve immediately while crust is crispy and cheese is melted. Cut diagonally for presentation.
Common Mistakes
Use medium heat to avoid burning cinnamon sugar before cheese melts
Don't oversoak bread with chutney to prevent soggy sandwiches
Substitutions
FAQ
Can I make the chutney ahead of time?
Yes, the apricot chutney mixture can be prepared up to 2 days ahead and stored refrigerated. This actually improves the flavor as ingredients meld together.
What if I don't have goat cheese?
Cream cheese works well as a substitute and provides similar creamy texture, though with milder flavor. Brie or camembert also work for more richness.
How long will leftover sandwiches keep?
Best eaten immediately for optimal texture. Cooked sandwiches can be refrigerated 2 days but will lose crispness when reheated.