Introduction

Baked Brie and Preserves is a simple yet elegant appetizer perfect for any occasion. Warm, gooey Brie topped with sweet fruit preserves and crunchy nuts creates a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will impress your guests.

The image shows a baked cheese dish in a black skillet, with the melted cheese forming a gooey, creamy base layer. On top of the cheese, there is a layer of glossy orange jam or glaze, sprinkled with small pieces of light brown nuts. Fresh green thyme sprigs are placed on top as garnish. Around the skillet, there are thin slices of green-skinned pear leaning against the cheese, and a round piece of toasted bread partly dipped into the melted cheese near the bottom right. The entire scene is set against a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 wheel of Brie cheese (8 ounces or about 225 grams, cold from refrigerator)
⅓ cup good-quality fruit preserves or jam (such as fig, mixed berry, or apricot)
¼ cup chopped nuts (such as pistachios, pecans, or walnuts)
1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup, optional)
1 small sprig fresh herbs (such as rosemary or thyme) or a few fresh berries for garnish (optional)
Sliced baguette, crostini, crackers, apple slices, or pear slices for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350℉. Line a small baking sheet with parchment paper, making sure the paper extends beyond the Brie on all sides.
Step 2: Remove the Brie wheel from its packaging and place it on the parchment paper. Keep the Brie cold until ready to bake.
Step 3: If desired, make shallow crosshatch cuts across the top rind of the Brie using a sharp knife, spacing cuts about ½ inch apart and cutting through just the rind.
Step 4: Spoon ⅓ cup of fruit preserves evenly onto the top of the Brie, spreading gently with the back of a spoon.
Step 5: Sprinkle ¼ cup of chopped nuts evenly over the preserves layer.
Step 6: Bake the Brie in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is soft and just starting to ooze at the edges, but still holds its shape.
Step 7: Remove from the oven and let rest for 2 to 3 minutes.
Step 8: If using, drizzle 1 tablespoon of honey or maple syrup over the top. Add fresh herb sprigs or berries for garnish.
Step 9: Use the parchment paper to carefully transfer the Brie to a serving platter. Surround with sliced baguette, crackers, or fresh fruit slices and serve immediately while warm.

Tips & Variations

For a different flavor, try swapping the fruit preserves with savory options like caramelized onions or fig and balsamic jam.
Use your favorite nuts or toast them lightly for added crunch and depth of flavor.
Serve with a variety of dippers like sliced apples or pears for a fresh contrast.
If you prefer, wrap the Brie in puff pastry before baking for a more decadent presentation.

Storage

Store any leftover baked Brie covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a warm oven at 300℉ for 5 to 7 minutes before serving to restore softness. Avoid microwaving, as it can cause the cheese to become overly runny.

How to Serve

The image shows a black cast iron skillet placed on a white marbled surface, filled with a round baked wheel of soft cheese that is topped with a shiny drizzle of honey and chopped nuts, garnished with fresh green thyme sprigs. Around the cheese are even layers of light golden toasted bread slices on the left, thin red apple slices with a hint of green skin on the upper right, and long, curved slices of fresh green pear on the lower left. A woman's hand is holding one bread slice gently placed on the cheese. The overall look combines warm golden, creamy white, and fresh red and green colors in a cozy, rustic style photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen fruit preserves for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen preserves as long as they are fully thawed and at room temperature before adding to the Brie. This ensures even heating and blending of flavors.

What type of Brie is best for baking?

A whole wheel of soft Brie with an edible rind is ideal. Avoid pre-sliced Brie or wedges, as the whole wheel holds its shape better when baked and allows for a beautiful presentation.