Baked Brie is a warm, gooey cheese dish that makes for a perfect appetizer or snack. This delightful treat is easy to make and always impresses guests. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just craving something cheesy, Baked Brie is a fantastic choice.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Baked Brie is great for several reasons. First, it’s a crowd-pleaser! The rich, melted cheese paired with crunchy crostini and sweet honey creates a delicious mix of flavors. It’s also incredibly simple to prepare, making it a perfect last-minute option. Plus, with just a few ingredients, you can create an elegant dish that looks impressive on any table.
How to Make Baked Brie
Ingredients:
- 250 – 500g / 8 – 16 oz round brie (or camembert; good value is fine!)
- 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional)
- 1 thyme sprig (optional)
- Crostini
- 1 bunch purple grapes (or green, optional)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C/350°F.
- Unwrap the brie and place it in a small, shallow ovenproof dish. You can also use a piece of crumbled baking or parchment paper for easy transfer.
- Bake the brie for 15 to 20 minutes (for 250g/8oz), or until it is fully melted. If you are using 500g/1lb brie, you should bake it for about 25 minutes. To check if it’s ready, gently touch the center – it should feel very soft, almost ready to collapse.
- If you’re in a hurry, you can microwave the brie for 2 minutes on high, checking every 30 seconds.
- Carefully transfer the baked brie to a serving plate or board.
- Drizzle honey on top and add a sprig of thyme if you like.
- Serve hot with crostini on the side for dipping. Don’t forget to provide a knife to cut through the rind and a smaller knife for scooping.
How to Serve Baked Brie
Baked Brie is best served warm. You can place it in the center of a serving board and surround it with crostini, crackers, and fresh grapes. Guests can scoop the creamy cheese onto their crostini for a bite-sized treat. Pair it with a glass of wine for an elevated experience!
How to Store Baked Brie
If you happen to have leftovers, you can store baked brie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 180°C/350°F for about 10 minutes, or until warm again.
Tips to Make Baked Brie
- Choose a good quality brie for the best flavor.
- If you prefer a bit of sweetness, feel free to add more honey or maple syrup.
- Experiment with different toppings, such as nuts or dried fruit.
- Keep an eye on the cheese while baking; it’s easy to overdo it!
Variation
You can add some toppings like chopped nuts, dried fruits, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a twist. Using different herbs, like rosemary or sage, can also change the flavor profile.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Yes, you can substitute brie with camembert, goat cheese, or any soft cheese that melts well.
Q: Is it necessary to add honey or maple syrup?
A: No, adding honey or syrup is optional. It adds sweetness, but the cheese is delicious on its own too.
Q: Can I make Baked Brie ahead of time?
A: It’s best to bake it just before serving for the best texture, but you can prepare everything and cook it when you’re ready to eat.
Baked Brie
Ingredients
Cheese
- 250 – 500 g round brie (or camembert) Good value is fine!
Toppings
- 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup Optional
- 1 sprig thyme Optional
- 1 bunch purple grapes (or green) Optional for serving
Accompaniment
- 1 package crostini For dipping
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 180°C/350°F.
- Unwrap the brie and place it in a small, shallow ovenproof dish.
- Bake the brie for 15 to 20 minutes for 250g/8oz or about 25 minutes for 500g/1lb until fully melted.
- To check if it’s ready, gently touch the center—it should feel very soft.
- If in a hurry, you can microwave the brie for 2 minutes on high, checking every 30 seconds.
Serving
- Carefully transfer the baked brie to a serving plate or board.
- Drizzle honey on top and add a sprig of thyme if desired.
- Serve hot with crostini on the side for dipping.
