A baked Brie appetizer is a sophisticated yet easy dish that’s perfect for entertaining. This creamy, melty Brie cheese is paired with sweet, savory, or tangy toppings and wrapped in buttery puff pastry or served simply with crackers, fruits, and nuts. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer for holidays, parties, or a cozy evening at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and elegant: Looks impressive but requires minimal effort.
- Versatile: Pair with your favorite toppings for a customized flavor.
- Perfect for entertaining: Great for any gathering or special occasion.
- Crowd-pleaser: Creamy cheese and delicious toppings never fail to impress.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 round of Brie cheese (8-12 oz)
- Puff pastry sheet (optional, for baked Brie)
- Toppings of your choice:
- Sweet: Honey, fig jam, or cranberry sauce
- Savory: Caramelized onions or bacon crumbles
- Nuts: Chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds
- Fresh fruit: Sliced apples, pears, or berries
- Optional garnishes: Fresh thyme, rosemary, or pomegranate seeds
- Crackers, baguette slices, or crostini for serving
Directions
For Baked Brie (Wrapped in Puff Pastry):
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Brie: Place the Brie in the center of the puff pastry sheet. Add your desired toppings (e.g., jam, nuts, or honey) on top of the Brie.
- Wrap the Brie: Fold the puff pastry over the Brie, trimming any excess. Pinch the edges to seal and brush with beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and flaky. Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.
For Simple Brie Appetizer (Unwrapped):
- Prepare the Brie: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the Brie on a small baking dish or cast-iron skillet.
- Add toppings: Spread your chosen toppings over the top of the Brie.
- Bake: Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is soft and gooey.
- Serve: Transfer the Brie to a serving platter and garnish with fresh herbs or pomegranate seeds. Serve warm with crackers or bread.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Serves 6-8 as an appetizer
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-25 minutes (depending on the method)
- Total Time: 25-35 minutes
Variations
- Savory bacon and onion Brie: Top with caramelized onions, crispy bacon bits, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
- Sweet and nutty: Use fig jam, honey, or maple syrup with chopped pecans or walnuts.
- Seasonal fruit Brie: Add fresh cranberries, orange zest, or apple slices for a seasonal twist.
- Spicy kick: Drizzle with hot honey or add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover Brie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 10-15 minutes or microwave briefly to soften.
FAQs
1. Do I need to remove the rind from the Brie?
No, the rind is edible and softens as it bakes, but you can remove it if you prefer.
2. Can I use a larger Brie wheel?
Yes, adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure even melting.
3. What can I serve with Brie?
Crackers, sliced baguette, crostini, apple or pear slices, and grapes pair beautifully with Brie.
4. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the Brie (wrapped or unwrapped) with toppings and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
5. Can I freeze Brie?
Unbaked Brie wrapped in puff pastry can be frozen. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.
6. Can I bake Brie without puff pastry?
Absolutely! Baking Brie unwrapped is quicker and just as delicious with the right toppings.
7. How do I prevent the puff pastry from getting soggy?
Use cold Brie and pastry, and don’t overdo the toppings to keep the pastry crisp.
8. Can I add herbs directly to the Brie?
Yes, fresh thyme or rosemary adds wonderful flavor when baked with the Brie.
9. What type of jam works best?
Fig, raspberry, apricot, and cranberry jams are all fantastic options.
10. Can I use brie substitutes?
Camembert or a triple-cream cheese can work as substitutes for Brie.
Conclusion
Brie appetizers are a versatile and elegant addition to any gathering. Whether baked in flaky puff pastry or simply topped with delicious ingredients, this creamy cheese dish is always a hit. Customize it with your favorite toppings and pairings, and enjoy a gooey, flavorful appetizer that’s sure to impress!
Print
Brie Appetizer Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Description
This Baked Brie Appetizer is a show-stopping yet simple dish perfect for any gathering. A creamy wheel of brie is baked until gooey and topped with sweet and savory toppings like honey, nuts, and dried fruits. Serve with crackers or sliced baguette for an indulgent appetizer your guests will love.
Ingredients
- 1 (8 oz) wheel of brie cheese
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 2 tbsp chopped pecans or walnuts
- 2 tbsp dried cranberries, apricots, or figs, chopped
- 1 tsp fresh rosemary or thyme (optional)
- Crackers, sliced baguette, or apple slices for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Brie:
- Place the brie wheel on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in an oven-safe dish.
- If desired, carefully score the top of the brie with a sharp knife in a crosshatch pattern.
- Add the Toppings:
- Drizzle the brie with honey or maple syrup.
- Sprinkle the chopped nuts, dried fruits, and fresh herbs evenly over the top.
- Bake the Brie:
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the brie is softened and gooey. Be careful not to overbake as it may lose its shape.
- Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 2–3 minutes. Serve immediately with crackers, baguette slices, or apple slices.
Notes
- To add a savory twist, drizzle with balsamic glaze instead of honey.
- Wrap the brie in puff pastry for an elevated version (brush with egg wash and bake for 20–25 minutes).
- Substitute other nuts like almonds or pistachios for variety.