Hot Appleton Cheese Sandwich

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of sugar
• 1/8 cup water
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 2-3 tbsp butter, divided
• 2 apples of any variety, cored and sliced
• 30 ml brandy, optional
• 4 slices brioche or other sweet bun
• 4 slices Wisconsin cheddar
• Walnut halves or pieces, optional
• Pomegranate seeds, optional

Preparation:

1. Prepare the caramel sauce:

   
   In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the water and sugar. Heat over high heat, without stirring, until the mixture begins to caramelize and turns a light amber color. Remove from heat and carefully add the cream, a little at a time, stirring vigorously. The caramel will bubble and splatter until the sugar cools slightly. Once all the cream has been added, reduce the heat again and simmer for 1-2 minutes. Season with salt and set aside.
   
2. Heat a frying pan over high heat. Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in the pan, add the sliced ​​apples, and sauté for 2 minutes. Remove from the heat and stir in the brandy, if using. Return to the heat and cook until the alcohol evaporates. Be careful not to spill any brandy on the stovetop. Keep the apples warm.
3. Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add 1-2 tablespoons of butter and melt. Add the brioche slices and top with a slice of cheddar. Cook until the cheese is melted. Meanwhile, spoon 1 tablespoon of caramel sauce onto each serving plate. Arrange the bread slices with the cheese on top of the sauce. Top with the apple-cognac mixture and drizzle with caramel sauce.