If you’re searching for a show-stopping appetizer that’s deceptively easy yet unforgettable, Baked Brie is truly the answer. Imagine a luscious wheel of Brie cheese blanketed in buttery, golden puff pastry, oozing with warm fruit preserves and finished with a sprinkle of nuts and herbs. Every bite is a dreamy mix of melty cheese, sweet and savory notes, and irresistible flaky pastry. This masterpiece makes holiday parties, cozy get-togethers, or even weeknight wine nights feel extra special, and it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes Baked Brie such a star is how a handful of simple, quality ingredients can create something absolutely luxurious. Each element plays its part—from pillowy pastry to sweet jam and creamy cheese—to create an appetizer everyone will remember.
- Brie Cheese (1 wheel, 8 oz): Choose a mild, creamy Brie—the star at the heart of every bite!
- Puff Pastry (1 sheet, thawed if frozen): This is your flaky, buttery wrap and bakes up golden and crisp.
- Fruit Preserves (1/4 cup; fig, apricot, or raspberry): The preserves add a lovely sweetness and depth—feel free to use your favorite flavor.
- Egg (1, beaten): Brushing the pastry with egg wash gives it a glossy, golden finish.
- Chopped Nuts (2 tbsp; pecans or walnuts, optional): Nuts bring a delightful crunch and toastiness (totally optional, but highly recommended!).
- Fresh Thyme or Rosemary (for garnish, optional): Adds color and a hint of herbaceous aroma right before serving.
- Crackers or Sliced Baguette (for serving): These vehicles are the perfect way to scoop up all the gooey, cheesy goodness.
How to Make Baked Brie
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Begin by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C), ensuring it’s nice and hot for that perfectly crisp pastry. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, which will keep cleanup a breeze and help prevent sticking.
Step 2: Assemble the Brie and Toppings
Place your Brie wheel in the center of your thawed puff pastry sheet. Spoon a generous layer of your chosen fruit preserves right on top. If you’re using nuts, sprinkle them over the preserves for a crunchy layer that plays beautifully with the creamy cheese.
Step 3: Wrap with Puff Pastry
Gently fold the puff pastry up and over the Brie, working your way around so you fully encase the cheese. Trim away any excess pastry to avoid it getting too thick in spots, and press the edges together so they’re sealed. Carefully flip the whole package over so the seams are hidden underneath—that way, your Baked Brie will look gorgeously smooth and professional after baking.
Step 4: Add the Egg Wash
Beat your egg, then brush a generous layer all over the wrapped Brie. This gives the baked pastry its signature golden shine and a touch of extra flavor!
Step 5: Bake and Let Cool
Slide your masterpiece into the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. The pastry should puff up and take on a rich, golden-brown hue. Once it’s done, let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. This short rest helps the cheese set slightly, so it doesn’t all immediately pour out when you slice in.
How to Serve Baked Brie
Garnishes
Dress up your warm Baked Brie with a scattering of fresh thyme or rosemary for an herby pop of color and aroma. For a more festive look, a handful of pomegranate seeds or a drizzle of honey adds wow factor and flavor, making the dish truly party-worthy.
Side Dishes
Baked Brie absolutely shines when paired with crisp crackers, slices of toasted baguette, or apple slices. These options offer a satisfying snap and a gentle palate cleanser between bites of decadent cheese and jam.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress, serve your Baked Brie on a rustic wooden board surrounded by fresh fruit, mixed olives, and a variety of crackers. Or, use tiny cheese knives or spreads, so guests can serve themselves. For a personal touch, try making mini Baked Brie “bites” using smaller wheels or even individual wedges wrapped in pastry for an adorable twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra Baked Brie (a rare occurrence in my experience!), simply wrap it in foil or transfer to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to three days. It’s fantastic as a midnight snack or quick sandwich filler!
Freezing
Unbaked, assembled Baked Brie can be frozen—just be sure to wrap well in plastic and foil. When ready, bake straight from frozen; add a few more minutes to the baking time. I don’t recommend freezing after baking, as the texture suffers a bit, but a quick reheat works for leftovers if you need to.
Reheating
To reheat, place leftover Baked Brie on a baking sheet and warm it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes, just until the pastry is crisp and the cheese is oozy once more. Microwaving is tempting but won’t keep your pastry flaky, so use the oven if possible!
FAQs
Can I make Baked Brie ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble your Baked Brie up to a day in advance, then keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to bake. Just add the egg wash right before putting it in the oven for best results.
What are the best fruit preserves for Baked Brie?
Fig, apricot, and raspberry preserves are all classic choices that pair wonderfully with the creamy, rich Brie. Feel free to experiment with pepper jelly, cherry, or even a savory onion jam for a custom touch.
Should I remove the rind from Brie before baking?
No need! The rind is completely edible and helps keep the cheese intact as it bakes. Plus, it adds subtle flavor and texture you don’t want to miss.
Can I use a different cheese besides Brie?
While Brie is traditional, you can absolutely use Camembert for a similar effect. Other soft, melty cheeses may work, but Brie’s texture and flavor is particularly well-suited to this recipe.
Is there a gluten-free version of Baked Brie?
Yes! Use a gluten-free puff pastry (widely available at specialty stores) and ensure your crackers or bread are also gluten-free for an equally delicious experience.
Final Thoughts
Baked Brie is that rare kind of recipe that looks and tastes fancy but is a genuine breeze to make. Whether you’re hosting, potluck-ing, or just treating yourself, don’t wait for a special occasion to bake one up. Give it a try—you might discover your new favorite crowd-pleaser!
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Baked Brie Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich and gooey goodness of this baked brie wrapped in flaky puff pastry. Perfect for a holiday gathering or as a luxurious appetizer, this dish pairs the creamy brie with sweet fruit preserves and crunchy nuts, all enveloped in a golden crust.
Ingredients
Baked Brie:
- 1 (8 oz) wheel of Brie cheese
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
Additional Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup fruit preserves (such as fig, apricot, or raspberry)
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
- 2 tablespoons chopped nuts (such as pecans or walnuts, optional)
- fresh thyme or rosemary for garnish (optional)
- crackers or sliced baguette for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Brie: Place the Brie in the center of the puff pastry sheet. Top with fruit preserves and nuts if using.
- Wrap and bake: Fold the pastry over the Brie, seal the edges, brush with beaten egg, and bake for 20–25 minutes until golden.
- Serve: Allow to cool slightly, garnish with herbs, and serve warm with crackers or baguette slices.
Notes
- You can prepare this dish ahead and refrigerate until ready to bake.
- For a savory variation, consider adding caramelized onions or fresh rosemary with the preserves.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 wheel
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
