Introduction
This Flaky Puff Pastry-Wrapped Brie is the perfect combination of sweet and savory—a luxurious appetizer that’s both elegant and simple to make. With a golden, flaky puff pastry encasing a warm, gooey wheel of brie, it’s elevated by the addition of sweet honey, fig preserves, and the salty goodness of prosciutto. Finished with a touch of thyme and a sprinkle of sugar, this baked brie is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, ideal for holiday gatherings, special occasions, or just a cozy night in.
Why This Recipe is Perfect for You
If you’re looking for a quick but impressive appetizer, this recipe has it all. It’s easy to prepare, bakes beautifully, and offers a delightful mix of flavors and textures. The gooey brie, wrapped in buttery, crisp puff pastry, balances the sweetness of figs and honey with the salty bite of prosciutto. This dish is a perfect centerpiece for any cheese platter and will have your guests asking for more.
Ingredients
- 1 (8-12 oz) wheel of brie cheese
- 1-2 tablespoons honey
- 1-2 tablespoons fig preserves
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
- 4-8 slices thin prosciutto
- 1 egg, beaten
- Coarse sugar, for sprinkling
Directions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
2. Assemble the Brie
Place the thawed puff pastry on the prepared baking sheet. In the center, place the wheel of brie. Using a sharp knife, lightly score the top of the brie in a crosshatch pattern. This helps the flavors of the honey and fig preserves seep into the cheese as it melts.
3. Add the Fig, Honey, and Seasonings
Spread 1-2 tablespoons of fig preserves over the top of the brie. Drizzle 1-2 tablespoons of honey evenly across the preserves, then sprinkle with fresh thyme leaves and a pinch of black pepper for added flavor.
4. Wrap with Prosciutto and Puff Pastry
Carefully wrap the brie with 4-8 slices of thin prosciutto, ensuring the cheese is well covered. Then, fold the corners of the puff pastry up and over the brie, gently pressing the edges to seal. Make sure the puff pastry completely encloses the brie to prevent any cheese from leaking out during baking.
5. Brush and Sprinkle
Brush the entire surface of the puff pastry with the beaten egg. This gives the pastry a golden, shiny finish when baked. Lightly sprinkle the top with coarse sugar to add a touch of sweetness and extra crunch to the flaky pastry.
6. Bake
Bake the brie in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the puff pastry turns a deep golden brown and is crisp to the touch. The cheese should be melted and gooey inside.
7. Serve
Remove the baked brie from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve warm with your favorite bread or crackers for dipping, and enjoy the delicious combination of gooey cheese, sweet honey, and savory prosciutto.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
- Pastry brush for the egg wash
- Sharp knife for scoring the brie
- Small bowl for the beaten egg
Tips and Shortcuts
- Thawing Puff Pastry: Make sure to thaw the puff pastry in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight. If it becomes too soft while assembling, place it back in the fridge for 10-15 minutes to firm up.
- Easy Prep: You can prepare the entire puff pastry-wrapped brie ahead of time, refrigerate it, and bake it fresh when you’re ready to serve.
- Flavor Variations: Experiment with other sweet toppings like apricot preserves or orange marmalade instead of fig preserves.
Recipe Swaps and Variations
- Cheese Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of brie, you can substitute it with camembert or soft goat cheese for a different flavor and texture.
- Fruit Toppings: For a seasonal twist, try adding sliced apples, pears, or even cranberries in addition to the fig preserves for a fruity contrast to the savory prosciutto.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle some chopped walnuts or pecans over the honey and fig layer for added crunch and richness.
How to Store Leftovers
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, wrap them tightly in foil and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the wrapped brie in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is warmed through and the pastry is crisp again.
Food and Drink Pairings
This Flaky Puff Pastry-Wrapped Brie pairs wonderfully with a light white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. The acidity and crispness of the wine cut through the richness of the cheese, honey, and prosciutto.
For non-alcoholic options, serve with a sparkling water flavored with citrus or a spiced apple cider for a cozy fall pairing.
To complement the dish, serve alongside a fruit platter with grapes, apples, and figs, or a charcuterie board with an assortment of meats and pickles.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the puff pastry-wrapped brie ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 12 hours before baking. Just bake it fresh when you’re ready to serve.
Q: What if I don’t have prosciutto?
A: You can substitute prosciutto with thinly sliced ham or omit it altogether for a vegetarian version. The flavors will still be delicious with just the honey, figs, and thyme.
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Absolutely! Camembert or even a soft goat cheese can be used as alternatives to brie. Just make sure the cheese you choose melts well and has a creamy texture.
Indulge in gourmet dining at home with our Filet Mignon with Shrimp and Lobster Cream Sauce recipe.
Call to Action
Loved this recipe for Flaky Puff Pastry-Wrapped Brie with Sweet Honey, Figs, and Savory Prosciutto? Share it with your friends and family, and be sure to subscribe to our blog for more irresistible appetizers and easy-to-make recipes that will elevate any gathering. Happy cooking!
PrintFlaky Puff Pastry-Wrapped Brie with Sweet Honey, Figs, and Savory Prosciutto
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Description
Flaky puff pastry-wrapped Brie with sweet honey, figs, and savory prosciutto makes a rich, elegant appetizer perfect for any gathering or special occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8 servings
- Calories: 400 kcal per serving