Baked Herbed Brie in Puff Pastry: An Elegant & Easy Appetizer

Brie en croute, or baked brie in puff pastry, is a classic appetizer that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. This version takes it up a notch with a generous helping of fresh herbs, creating a fragrant and flavorful dish that’s perfect for holiday gatherings, dinner parties, or even a special weeknight treat. The combination of creamy, melted brie, flaky puff pastry, and vibrant herbs is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile – you can customize the herbs and toppings to suit your taste and the occasion.

This recipe provides detailed instructions and helpful tips to ensure your baked brie turns out perfectly every time. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, you’ll be able to create a stunning and delicious appetizer that will impress your guests.

## Why You’ll Love This Recipe

* **Elegant and Impressive:** Baked brie is a show-stopping appetizer that looks and tastes sophisticated. It’s perfect for entertaining and adding a touch of elegance to any gathering.
* **Easy to Make:** Despite its impressive appearance, this recipe is surprisingly simple. It requires minimal ingredients and effort, making it a great option for busy hosts.
* **Customizable:** You can easily adapt this recipe to your liking by using different herbs, toppings, and even different types of cheese. The possibilities are endless!
* **Delicious Flavor:** The combination of creamy brie, flaky puff pastry, and fresh herbs creates a flavor explosion that’s both savory and comforting.
* **Perfect for Any Occasion:** This appetizer is suitable for a wide range of occasions, from casual get-togethers to formal dinner parties.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

* **1 wheel of Brie cheese (about 8 ounces):** Choose a good-quality brie with a smooth, creamy texture. The size of the brie will depend on your preference, but an 8-ounce wheel is a good starting point. Avoid overly ripe brie, as it may become too runny when baked.
* **1 sheet of Puff pastry:** Use store-bought puff pastry for convenience. Make sure to thaw it according to the package instructions before using. All-butter puff pastry will provide the best flavor and texture.
* **1 tablespoon Olive oil:** Extra virgin olive oil adds a subtle fruity flavor to the herb mixture.
* **2 tablespoons Fresh herbs, chopped (such as rosemary, thyme, parsley, chives):** Use a combination of your favorite herbs. Rosemary and thyme add a warm, earthy flavor, while parsley and chives provide a fresh, bright note. You can also use other herbs like oregano, sage, or marjoram.
* **1 clove Garlic, minced (optional):** Garlic adds a savory depth to the herb mixture. If you’re not a fan of garlic, you can omit it.
* **1 Egg, beaten:** The egg wash helps the puff pastry turn golden brown and adds a beautiful shine.
* **1 tablespoon Milk or water:** Mix the milk or water with the egg to create a smoother egg wash.
* **Optional Toppings:** Honey, chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, almonds), dried fruit (cranberries, apricots), jam (fig jam, apricot jam)

## Equipment You’ll Need

* **Baking sheet:** A baking sheet is essential for baking the brie in the oven.
* **Parchment paper:** Line the baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the brie from sticking.
* **Small bowl:** Use a small bowl to mix the egg wash.
* **Pastry brush:** A pastry brush is used to apply the egg wash to the puff pastry.
* **Sharp knife or pizza cutter:** Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to cut the puff pastry.
* **Cutting board:** For chopping the herbs and garlic.

## Step-by-Step Instructions

### 1. Prepare the Herbs

* Wash and dry your fresh herbs thoroughly.
* Chop the herbs finely using a sharp knife or herb chopper. Aim for small, even pieces.
* If using garlic, mince it finely as well.
* In a small bowl, combine the chopped herbs, minced garlic (if using), and olive oil. Mix well to coat the herbs in the oil. This will help to release their flavors and create a fragrant herb mixture.

### 2. Prepare the Puff Pastry

* Thaw the puff pastry according to the package instructions. This usually takes about 30-40 minutes at room temperature.
* Once thawed, gently unfold the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface.
* Using a rolling pin, lightly roll out the puff pastry to a slightly larger size, about 12×12 inches. This will make it easier to wrap the brie.

### 3. Assemble the Brie

* Place the brie wheel in the center of the puff pastry sheet.
* Spoon the herb mixture evenly over the top of the brie, pressing it gently to adhere.
* If using any optional toppings like honey, nuts, or dried fruit, sprinkle them over the herb mixture.

### 4. Wrap the Brie

* Carefully bring the edges of the puff pastry up and over the brie, encasing it completely. Trim any excess pastry.
* Pinch the seams together to seal the edges tightly. You can use a little water to help the seams stick together.
* Flip the wrapped brie over so that the seam is on the bottom.

### 5. Prepare the Egg Wash

* In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk or water until well combined.

### 6. Brush with Egg Wash

* Using a pastry brush, gently brush the entire surface of the puff pastry with the egg wash. This will give it a beautiful golden-brown color and a glossy shine.

### 7. Score the Pastry (Optional)

* Using a sharp knife, score the top of the puff pastry in a decorative pattern. This will allow steam to escape during baking and prevent the pastry from puffing up too much. You can create simple lines, a lattice pattern, or any other design you like.

### 8. Bake the Brie

* Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
* Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
* Carefully transfer the wrapped brie to the prepared baking sheet.
* Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and puffed up. The brie inside should be melted and gooey.

### 9. Let it Rest

* Remove the baked brie from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This will allow the brie to cool slightly and prevent it from being too runny.

### 10. Serve and Enjoy

* Carefully transfer the baked brie to a serving platter.
* Serve warm with crackers, baguette slices, fruit, or vegetables for dipping.
* Enjoy the delicious combination of creamy brie, flaky puff pastry, and fragrant herbs!

## Tips for Success

* **Use high-quality ingredients:** The quality of your ingredients will directly impact the flavor of your baked brie. Choose a good-quality brie and fresh herbs for the best results.
* **Don’t overbake the brie:** Overbaking can cause the brie to become too runny and lose its shape. Bake until the puff pastry is golden brown and puffed up, but the brie is still slightly firm to the touch.
* **Let the brie rest before serving:** Allowing the brie to rest for a few minutes before serving will help it to cool slightly and prevent it from being too runny.
* **Customize the herbs and toppings:** Feel free to experiment with different herbs and toppings to create your own unique flavor combinations. Some popular options include rosemary, thyme, parsley, chives, garlic, honey, nuts, and dried fruit.
* **Serve with a variety of accompaniments:** Offer a variety of crackers, baguette slices, fruit, and vegetables for dipping to create a well-rounded appetizer spread.
* **Make it ahead of time:** You can assemble the brie in puff pastry ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just be sure to bake it fresh before serving.
* **Use a pizza stone:** For an extra crispy crust, bake the brie on a preheated pizza stone.
* **Add a touch of sweetness:** A drizzle of honey or maple syrup over the baked brie adds a touch of sweetness that complements the savory flavors.
* **Pair with wine:** Baked brie pairs well with a variety of wines, such as Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, or Chardonnay.

## Variations and Customizations

* **Different Cheeses:** While brie is the traditional choice, you can also use other soft cheeses like Camembert or Coulommiers.
* **Sweet and Savory:** Combine sweet and savory elements by adding fig jam, apricot preserves, or caramelized onions to the herb mixture.
* **Spicy Kick:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot honey for a spicy kick.
* **Mediterranean Flavors:** Use Mediterranean herbs like oregano, basil, and sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean-inspired brie.
* **Vegetarian Delight:** For a vegetarian version, use vegetarian puff pastry.
* **Vegan Option:** While more challenging, vegan puff pastry exists, and a cashew-based cheese can be substituted for the brie. This will drastically change the flavor profile but can satisfy vegan guests.

## Serving Suggestions

* **Holiday Appetizer:** Baked brie is a perfect addition to any holiday appetizer spread.
* **Dinner Party Starter:** Impress your guests with this elegant and easy-to-make starter.
* **Wine and Cheese Night:** Serve baked brie as part of a wine and cheese tasting.
* **Picnic Treat:** Wrap the baked brie in foil and take it on a picnic.
* **Brunch Addition:** Add baked brie to your brunch spread for a touch of indulgence.

## Storage Instructions

* **Refrigerate:** Leftover baked brie can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
* **Reheat:** To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but the puff pastry may become soggy.

## Recipe Card

**Baked Herbed Brie in Puff Pastry**

**Prep Time:** 15 minutes

**Cook Time:** 25 minutes

**Total Time:** 40 minutes

**Servings:** 6-8

**Ingredients:**

* 1 wheel of Brie cheese (about 8 ounces)
* 1 sheet of Puff pastry
* 1 tablespoon Olive oil
* 2 tablespoons Fresh herbs, chopped (such as rosemary, thyme, parsley, chives)
* 1 clove Garlic, minced (optional)
* 1 Egg, beaten
* 1 tablespoon Milk or water
* Optional Toppings: Honey, chopped nuts, dried fruit, jam

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, combine chopped herbs, minced garlic (if using), and olive oil.
3. Unfold puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Roll out slightly.
4. Place brie in the center of the puff pastry.
5. Spoon herb mixture over the brie. Add optional toppings if desired.
6. Wrap the brie in the puff pastry, sealing the edges.
7. Flip the wrapped brie over so the seam is on the bottom.
8. Whisk together egg and milk or water for egg wash.
9. Brush the puff pastry with egg wash.
10. Score the top of the pastry (optional).
11. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
12. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
13. Serve warm with crackers, baguette slices, fruit, or vegetables.

Enjoy your delicious Baked Herbed Brie in Puff Pastry!

This recipe is a surefire way to impress your guests and elevate any gathering. With its simple instructions and customizable options, you can create a baked brie that’s perfectly tailored to your taste. So go ahead, give it a try and experience the deliciousness for yourself!