Baked Brie is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, combining creamy indulgence with a golden, buttery crust in just 15 minutes. The warm, gooey center pairs perfectly with crisp crackers or fresh fruit, creating a harmony of textures that’s impossible to resist. Its rich, velvety flavor is elevated by a hint of sweetness or a sprinkle of herbs, making it versatile for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or treating yourself, this dish feels effortlessly elegant yet simple to prepare. With minimal prep and quick baking, it’s the perfect solution for impromptu gatherings or cozy nights in. Every bite is a luxurious experience that’s sure to leave everyone craving more.
Ingredients for Baked Brie
- 1 (8-ounce) round brie cheese, chilled (keeps its shape better when baking)
- Honey, for drizzling (adjust to taste)
- Chopped toasted pecans, for sprinkling (substitute with walnuts or almonds if preferred)
- Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling (optional, adds a nice contrast)
- For serving:
- Fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs, for garnish
- Sliced baguette, crostini, or crackers
- Apple slices (use crisp varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- Grapes (red or green, for a sweet pairing)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Place the chilled brie on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the cheese is soft in the middle (it should jiggle slightly when gently shaken).
- Remove from the oven and carefully transfer the brie to a serving dish (use a spatula to avoid breaking the delicate cheese).
- Drizzle generously with honey, then sprinkle with chopped pecans and a pinch of flaky sea salt, if desired.
- Garnish with fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs for a fragrant touch.
- Serve immediately with sliced baguette, crostini, crackers, apple slices, and grapes for a delightful combination of flavors and textures.
Creative Toppings & Sauces to Elevate Your Baked Brie
While honey and pecans are classic, try drizzling with maple syrup or balsamic glaze for a twist. For a savory option, top with caramelized onions or fig jam. A sprinkle of chili flakes or fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can add a pop of flavor.
Perfect Pairings for Serving
Serve your baked brie with a mix of textures and flavors. Sliced baguette or crostini are great for dipping, while apple slices and grapes add a refreshing contrast. For a heartier spread, include crackers or dried fruit like apricots or figs.
Quick Tips for Storage & Reheating
If you have leftovers, store the brie in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 300°F for 5-7 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the cheese too runny.
Time-Saving Hacks for Busy Cooks
To save time, prep your toppings ahead of time. Toast the pecans and slice the baguette the night before. You can also use pre-sliced apples or store-bought crostini to cut down on prep work without sacrificing flavor.
Common Questions Answered
Wondering if you can bake brie with the rind? Yes! The rind is edible and helps hold the cheese together. Can you use a different cheese? While brie is ideal, camembert works well too. Just adjust the baking time slightly based on the size of the cheese.
Baked Brie
Ingredients
- 1 (8-ounce) round brie cheese, chilled
- Honey, for drizzling
- Chopped toasted pecans, for sprinkling
- Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling, optional
For serving
- Fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs, for garnish
- Sliced baguette, crostini, or crackers
- Apple slices
- Grapes
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place the chilled brie on the baking sheet and bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until soft in the middle.
- Remove from the oven and carefully transfer to a serving dish (the brie will be fragile after baking).
- Drizzle generously with honey and sprinkle with chopped pecans and flaky sea salt, if using. Garnish with rosemary or thyme and serve with baguette, apple slices, and grapes.