Baked Brie in Puff Pastry
Baked Brie in Puff Pastry is a simple yet impressive dish that brings together creamy, gooey brie cheese wrapped in buttery, flaky puff pastry. When baked, the cheese melts perfectly…
Tip: save now, cook later.Baked Brie in Puff Pastry is a simple yet impressive dish that brings together creamy, gooey brie cheese wrapped in buttery, flaky puff pastry. When baked, the cheese melts perfectly inside and the pastry turns golden crisp, making it a delicious snack or appetizer that’s perfect for sharing. You’ll notice how the rich cheese pairs wonderfully with the light and crunchy pastry, creating a wonderful mix of textures and flavors.
I love making this because it feels fancy but is actually so easy to put together. I sometimes add a spoonful of jam or honey on top of the brie before wrapping it up to add a touch of sweetness that balances the richness. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser—everyone always asks for the recipe or seconds when I bring this out at gatherings. It’s just one of those dishes that looks like you spent a lot of time on it, but really, it’s all magic from the oven.
My favorite way to serve Baked Brie in Puff Pastry is with some crisp crackers or slices of fresh baguette and a few fresh fruit slices on the side. It makes for a perfect little party plate where people can pick and choose their bites. Whether you’re making it for a holiday party, a casual get-together, or just because you’re craving something tasty, it quickly becomes one of those dishes that feels special and comforting all at once.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Brie Cheese: This soft cheese melts beautifully inside the pastry, giving a creamy texture. If you can’t find Brie, Camembert works well too. For a milder flavor, try cream cheese, but the texture will be different.
Puff Pastry: Store-bought puff pastry is a lifesaver here—it’s buttery and flaky without extra effort. If unavailable, phyllo dough can work, but it’s thinner and crispier. Make sure to thaw puff pastry properly before using.
Honey & Nuts: Honey adds sweetness that contrasts nicely with the rich cheese. Maple syrup or fruit preserves are great swaps. For nuts, walnuts or pecans add crunch, but almonds or hazelnuts are also tasty options.
How Do You Wrap the Brie Perfectly in Puff Pastry?
Getting a neat wrap around the Brie without tearing the pastry can be tricky. Here’s a simple way:
- Start with the Brie in the center of the rolled pastry.
- Drop your toppings (honey, nuts) on top of the cheese first.
- Fold in the puff pastry edges toward the center, pleating gently if needed to avoid bulk.
- Leave a small opening on top if you want cheese to show, or seal it completely.
- Use a bit of beaten egg to “glue” down folds and secure the seal.
- Brush the entire pastry with egg wash for a golden color when baked.
Taking your time with folding ensures the cheese stays inside and the pastry bakes evenly with a lovely golden crust.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – perfect for even baking and fits the wrapped Brie comfortably.
- Parchment paper – keeps the pastry from sticking and makes cleanup easy.
- Pastry brush – helps you spread egg wash evenly for a golden crust.
- Rolling pin – smooths out the puff pastry if it’s too thick or uneven.
- Sharp knife – great for slicing fruit and cutting the baked Brie for serving.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add a spoonful of fig jam or apricot preserves inside the Brie for a fruity sweetness that pairs well with the cheese.
- Sprinkle fresh rosemary or thyme on top before baking for a touch of herbal aroma and flavor.
- Mix in chopped dried cranberries or cherries with the nuts for a tangy pop in every bite.
- For a savory twist, add cooked bacon bits or caramelized onions inside the pastry before wrapping.
How to Make Baked Brie in Puff Pastry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
- 1 (8 oz) round of Brie cheese
- 2 to 3 tablespoons honey (for drizzling)
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
For Serving:
- 1 small apple or pear, thinly sliced
- Fresh blackberries or other fresh fruit
- Crackers or baguette slices
- Fresh thyme sprigs (optional)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake, with an optional 5-minute resting time before serving. So, in total, expect to spend roughly 35-40 minutes from start to table.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Pastry:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry to smooth it out if needed.
2. Assemble the Brie:
Place the Brie round in the center of the puff pastry. Drizzle honey over the top of the Brie and sprinkle with chopped walnuts or pecans for a delicious crunch.
3. Wrap the Brie in Pastry:
Fold the puff pastry over the Brie, pleating neatly to seal the cheese inside. You can either enclose it completely or leave a small circular opening on top. Take your time to ensure a snug, tidy wrapping.
4. Add the Finishing Touches:
Beat the egg and brush it all over the puff pastry to encourage a beautiful golden-brown color during baking.
5. Bake and Serve:
Place the wrapped Brie on your prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes until the pastry is golden and puffed. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Serve warm with apple or pear slices, fresh blackberries, nuts, crackers or baguette slices, and a sprinkle of fresh thyme if you like.
Enjoy the rich, melted Brie inside the crisp, flaky puff pastry alongside sweet and fresh accompaniments for a truly delicious treat!
Can I Use Frozen Puff Pastry for This Recipe?
Yes! Just be sure to thaw the puff pastry completely in the fridge overnight before using. This helps it roll out smoothly and bake evenly without cracking.
What Can I Substitute for Honey?
If you don’t have honey, fruit preserves like apricot or fig jam make a delicious alternative. Maple syrup also works well to add a touch of sweetness.
How Should I Store Leftover Baked Brie?
Wrap any leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a low oven before serving to restore the melty texture.
Can I Add Other Fillings Inside the Puff Pastry?
Absolutely! Try adding caramelized onions, cooked bacon bits, or dried fruits like cranberries for extra flavor and texture variations.