Baked Brie Puff Pastry Fig

This baked brie in puff pastry is my favorite way to create an instant sense of celebration The recipe brings together creamy brie rich fig preserves and a touch of honey all tucked inside buttery pastry for a showstopping appetizer that takes just minutes to assemble

I hosted a holiday party once and made two of these brie wheels They both disappeared before I could even sit down The gooey cheese center with a flaky golden crust was everyone’s favorite bite

Ingredients

• Brie cheese wheel: Choose one that feels soft with an edible rind and no cracks for the best creamy texture
• Frozen puff pastry sheet: Look for brands that use real butter for flavor and make sure it is fully thawed before use
• Honey: Adds a floral sweetness and helps balance the richness of the brie Opt for local honey if available
• Fig preserves: Creates a fruity layer that pairs beautifully with the cheese
• Fresh thyme leaves: Brings a bright herbal pop Choose thyme sprigs with vibrant green leaves
• Black pepper: Provides a subtle heat and depth freshly cracked is ideal
• Egg: Acts as a wash to achieve a shiny golden crust
• Coarse sugar: Sprinkling on top adds sweetness and sparkle optional but recommended
• Chopped walnuts or pecans: Add crunch and nutty flavor select fresh nuts for best texture optional

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Oven and Baking Sheet:

Set your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to keep the pastry from sticking and make cleanup easier

Roll Out the Pastry:

On a lightly floured counter gently roll out your thawed puff pastry Make it large enough to wrap around the brie so there are no thin spots

Prepare the Brie:

Put the brie wheel in the center of the pastry Use a small sharp knife to score the top in a crosshatch pattern This helps the flavors seep in while baking

Add Toppings and Flavors:

Spread a generous layer of fig preserves over the top of the brie Drizzle with honey sprinkle fresh thyme leaves and add a bit of black pepper For more texture scatter chopped walnuts or pecans if using

Wrap the Brie:

Carefully fold each edge of the pastry up and over the brie Pinch them together in the center to seal and avoid any leaks

Brush and Sprinkle:

Brush the entire outside of the pastry with beaten egg This makes for a shiny golden finish Sprinkle with coarse sugar for extra sweetness if you like

Bake:

Place your wrapped brie on the prepared baking sheet Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the pastry is deeply golden brown and crisp

Cool and Serve:

Allow the brie to cool for five minutes before slicing This keeps the cheese from spilling out Serve with crackers baguette slices or fresh fruit

Pin

Thyme is always my personal touch I love how it wakes up the flavors I remember making this for my sister’s birthday and everyone talked about the aroma coming from the kitchen before it even came out of the oven

Storage Tips

Wrap leftover baked brie tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator It stays fresh for two days To reheat bake in a 350 degree oven for about ten minutes until warmed through Microwaving works too though the pastry may be less crisp

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap fig preserves with apricot or raspberry preserves Brie can be replaced with camembert for a slightly deeper flavor If you do not have puff pastry use crescent roll dough in a pinch Almonds are an easy substitute for walnuts or pecans

Serving Suggestions

I like to serve this brie right out of the oven sliced into wedges Pair it with apple slices good crackers or a toasted baguette Grapes pears or dried fruit also make great accompaniments for a beautiful appetizer board

Cultural Context

Baked brie in pastry originated in France where cheese and fruit are classic companions This dish has become a holiday favorite in my home and is often the centerpiece at family gatherings The combination of brie pastry and sweet preserves is popular across Europe and North America for its blend of simplicity and elegance

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the pastry-wrapped brie in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake. Bake just before serving for best texture.

→ What can I serve alongside this appetizer?

Pair it with crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh fruit like grapes or apple slices for a delightful contrast in flavors.

→ Can I use different preserves or jams?

Absolutely. Apricot, raspberry, or cranberry preserves make great alternatives to fig and add a unique sweetness.

→ Do I need to remove the rind from brie before baking?

No, the rind is edible and helps the cheese hold its shape during baking while adding flavor and texture.

→ Is it possible to add nuts for extra texture?

Yes, chopped walnuts or pecans can be sprinkled over the brie before wrapping for added crunch and nutty flavor.

→ How do I ensure the pastry doesn't get soggy?

Allow any preserves to drain excess liquid before spreading and bake on parchment paper to promote even browning and crispiness.