Baked Brie with Strawberry Preserves
Highlighted under: Sweet Creations
I love indulging in creamy baked brie topped with strawberry preserves. It's a delightful combination of flavors that never fails to impress my guests. This dish comes together quickly and effortlessly, making it a perfect addition to any gathering or cozy night in. With a warm, gooey center and a crispy exterior, every bite is a true treat. I'm always amazed at how simply combining quality ingredients can elevate a dish to new heights. Let me share with you how I make this delicious appetizer that always leaves everyone asking for seconds.
When I first tried baking brie, I was captivated by its deliciousness. The combination of warm cheese and fruity preserves is simply irresistible. Over the years, I've experimented with different toppings, but strawberry preserves always reign supreme in my kitchen. I learned that letting the brie sit at room temperature before baking allows it to become beautifully gooey.
One of my favorite tips is to pair this baked brie with a variety of crackers and fresh fruit. It creates a vibrant platter that not only looks appealing but also offers various textures and flavors. Each time I serve it, the compliments roll in, and it has certainly become a staple for holidays and special occasions.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich, creamy brie enveloped in flakey pastry
- Sweet and tangy strawberry preserves enhance the flavor
- Perfect for entertaining or casual get-togethers
Mastering Puff Pastry
Puff pastry is a crucial element in achieving the perfect baked brie experience. Choosing a high-quality puff pastry will elevate the dish significantly, providing a flakiness that complements the creamy brie. When handling the pastry, keep it slightly chilled; this ensures it remains light and airy when baked. If it becomes too warm, working with it quickly and efficiently will prevent it from losing its distinct layered structure.
Thaw the puff pastry in the refrigerator for a few hours before use. This gradual thawing keeps the layers intact and prevents the pastry from becoming too soft. If you're short on time, you can leave it out at room temperature for about 30 minutes, but watch for softness. Less handling leads to better rise and texture during baking, resulting in a beautifully golden and crisp exterior.
Choosing the Right Ingredients
Opt for a wheel of brie that boasts a creamy texture and rich flavor. The quality of the brie can significantly impact the overall taste of the dish; a higher fat content in the cheese ensures it melts beautifully, creating that iconic gooey interior. If you can find it, a double-cream brie will take your appetizer to an entirely new level, often marked by an extra layer of richness that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the strawberry preserves.
When it comes to preserves, I always recommend using a natural brand. Look for options with minimal added sugars and artificial ingredients, as these can alter the intended flavor profile. Alternatively, you can make your own strawberry compote by simmering fresh strawberries with a little sugar and lemon juice until thickened. This homemade version provides a fresh, vibrant flavor while allowing you to control the sweetness, ensuring an ideal balance with the brie.
Ingredients
For Baked Brie
- 1 wheel of brie cheese (about 8 ounces)
- 1/2 cup strawberry preserves
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Fresh strawberries, for serving
- Crackers, for serving
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the Brie
Place the brie cheese in the center of the puff pastry sheet.
Add the Preserves
Spread the strawberry preserves generously on top of the brie.
Wrap the Brie
Fold the puff pastry over the brie, wrapping it completely, and seal the edges.
Apply Egg Wash
Brush the beaten egg over the wrapped pastry to give it a golden color.
Bake
Place the wrapped brie on a baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes, until golden brown.
Serve
Let it cool for 5 minutes, then serve warm with fresh strawberries and crackers.
Pro Tips
- For an extra touch, try adding crushed nuts or a drizzle of honey on top of the preserves before wrapping the brie.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your baked brie with an assortment of dippable items for a beautiful presentation. Fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries add a refreshing contrast, while the sweetness of the preserves complements the cheese beautifully. Consider adding slices of baguette or a variety of crackers, offering different textures and flavors that enhance the overall tasting experience. I also enjoy drizzling a bit of honey on top for an extra layer of sweetness.
This appetizer can be served as a centerpiece for casual gatherings or even as part of a more sophisticated cheese board. Adding nuts, such as toasted almonds or walnuts, can bring in a crunchy element that juxtaposes the creaminess of the brie. Don't forget some fresh herbs, like rosemary or thyme, for garnish; they provide an aromatic touch that elevates both presentation and flavor.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers after your gathering, store the baked brie in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to three days, although the texture may alter slightly upon reheating. When you're ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes; this helps restore the gooey texture without overcooking the cheese, preventing it from becoming rubbery.
For those who want to prepare in advance, you can assemble the baked brie beforehand and freeze it before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, freezing for up to one month. When you're ready to bake, simply remove it from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking according to the recipe instructions. This allows you to have a gourmet appetizer ready to go at a moment's notice!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Camembert is a great alternative that offers a similar creamy texture.
→ How long can I store leftover baked brie?
You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven before serving.
→ Is it necessary to use puff pastry?
While puff pastry provides a delightful flakiness, you can use a pie crust or even crescent dough in a pinch.
→ Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the baked brie ahead of time and freeze it. Just bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Baked Brie with Strawberry Preserves
I love indulging in creamy baked brie topped with strawberry preserves. It's a delightful combination of flavors that never fails to impress my guests. This dish comes together quickly and effortlessly, making it a perfect addition to any gathering or cozy night in. With a warm, gooey center and a crispy exterior, every bite is a true treat. I'm always amazed at how simply combining quality ingredients can elevate a dish to new heights. Let me share with you how I make this delicious appetizer that always leaves everyone asking for seconds.
What You'll Need
For Baked Brie
- 1 wheel of brie cheese (about 8 ounces)
- 1/2 cup strawberry preserves
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Fresh strawberries, for serving
- Crackers, for serving
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Place the brie cheese in the center of the puff pastry sheet.
Spread the strawberry preserves generously on top of the brie.
Fold the puff pastry over the brie, wrapping it completely, and seal the edges.
Brush the beaten egg over the wrapped pastry to give it a golden color.
Place the wrapped brie on a baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes, until golden brown.
Let it cool for 5 minutes, then serve warm with fresh strawberries and crackers.
Extra Tips
- For an extra touch, try adding crushed nuts or a drizzle of honey on top of the preserves before wrapping the brie.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 15g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 8g