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Crispy Baked Brie en Croûte

crispy baked brie en croûte - featured image

A quick and easy recipe featuring a whole wheel of creamy brie wrapped in flaky puff pastry, baked to golden perfection with a melty, gooey center. Perfect for entertaining or a cozy night in.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 whole wheel of brie cheese (8 ounces / 225 grams)
  • 1 frozen puff pastry sheet (thawed)
  • 1 large egg (beaten, for egg wash)
  • 2 tablespoons fruit preserves or jam (optional, apricot or fig recommended)
  • 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional, toasted pecans or walnuts)
  • Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs (optional)
  • Flour (for dusting)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
  2. Lightly flour your work surface. Unfold the thawed puff pastry sheet and gently roll it out if needed to smooth creases, ensuring it is large enough to wrap around the brie wheel completely.
  3. Place the brie in the center of the puff pastry. If using, spread the fruit preserves evenly on top of the brie, then sprinkle the chopped nuts and fresh herbs over the jam layer.
  4. Fold the puff pastry edges up and around the brie, trimming any excess dough. Seal the edges by pinching them together or pressing gently with a fork. Flip the wrapped brie seam-side down onto the prepared baking sheet.
  5. Use a sharp knife to lightly score a pattern on the top of the pastry without cutting through. Brush the entire surface with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
  6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown. Tent loosely with foil if browning too fast.
  7. Allow the baked brie to rest for 5-10 minutes on a cooling rack before slicing.
  8. Slice into wedges and serve warm with crusty bread or crackers.

Notes

Keep puff pastry chilled until ready to assemble for best flakiness. Lightly score the pastry to vent steam but avoid cutting too deep to prevent cheese leakage. Let the baked brie rest before slicing to avoid molten cheese spills. You can prepare ahead and refrigerate for up to 4 hours before baking, adding extra baking time if baking cold. Tent with foil if pastry browns too quickly.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked brie, brie en croûte, puff pastry, appetizer, party starter, easy recipe, cheesy appetizer, baked cheese