This Fig Walnut Baked Brie is pure comfort! With gooey cheese wrapped in flaky pastry, it’s topped with sweet figs and crunchy walnuts for a special touch.
You won’t believe how quickly this disappears at parties! I love serving it with crackers, making it a fun shareable dish that’s always a hit. Who can resist melty cheese? 🧀✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Brie cheese: The star of the show! Look for a wheel of good-quality Brie for the best creamy texture. If you’re a fan of stronger cheeses, Camembert is an excellent alternative.
Dried figs: These give a unique sweetness. If you can’t find dried figs, apricots or dates can work as substitutes, although they’ll change the flavor slightly.
Walnuts: They add crunch and flavor. If you’re allergic or don’t like walnuts, pecans or almonds are great alternatives. You could also leave nuts out entirely for a nut-free version!
Honey: It sweetens everything! Maple syrup or agave syrup can substitute if you’re looking for a vegan option.
Fresh thyme: This gives a nice herbal touch. If you don’t have thyme, rosemary or even a pinch of dried herbs can substitute.
How Do I Ensure My Brie Melts Perfectly Without Oozing Everywhere?
To help your Brie melt beautifully while still holding its shape, follow these simple tips:
- Preheat your oven properly! A hot oven (350°F) gets the cheese melting nicely.
- Place just the Brie on a baking sheet lined with parchment, this can catch any drips as it melts.
- Keep an eye on the oven; bake for only 10-15 minutes so it gets soft without losing form.
- Let it cool for a few minutes after baking! This helps the cheese settle a bit before serving.
With these steps, you’ll enjoy a gooey, warm Brie that’s perfect for dipping!
Fig Walnut Baked Brie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 wheel (8 oz) Brie cheese
- 1/3 cup dried figs, chopped
- 1/3 cup walnuts, roughly chopped
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (optional)
- Fresh figs, halved (for garnish, optional)
- Baguette slices or crackers (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 5 minutes to prep and 10-15 minutes to bake, so you’re looking at a total time of about 20 minutes. Perfect for a quick and easy appetizer that looks fancy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your Brie melts perfectly when it goes in!
2. Prepare the Brie:
Take the Brie out of its packaging and place it in a small, oven-safe skillet or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This keeps it from sticking and makes cleanup easier!
3. Make the Topping:
In a small bowl, combine the chopped dried figs, walnuts, honey, and thyme leaves. Mix everything together until it’s well blended. This tasty topping is going to give your Brie that wonderful flavor!
4. Assemble the Dish:
Spoon the fig and walnut mixture evenly over the top of the Brie. Make sure to cover it well so every bite is full of flavor!
5. Bake the Brie:
Now, it’s time to bake! Pop the Brie in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-15 minutes. You want it to be soft and gooey but not completely melted.
6. Cool Slightly:
Once it’s out of the oven, let your baked Brie cool for a few minutes. This helps the cheese settle so it won’t ooze out too much when you serve it.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the warm Brie with fresh fig halves and slices of baguette or crackers for dipping. It’s a perfect appetizer for parties or a cozy night in!
This dish combines the creamy richness of melted Brie with the sweet, sticky figs and crunchy walnuts, all balanced perfectly with a drizzle of honey and fragrant thyme. Enjoy the melty, nutty goodness!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While Brie is traditional, you can also use Camembert for a stronger flavor, or even goat cheese for a tangy twist. Just keep in mind that melting times may vary based on the cheese you choose!
How Can I Store Leftover Baked Brie?
If you have any leftovers (though they’ll likely be gone quickly!), let the Brie cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, bake it in the oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes until warmed through.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the fig and walnut topping a day in advance and keep it in the fridge. Just assemble the dish and bake when you’re ready to serve!
What Should I Serve with Baked Brie?
Consider serving it with a variety of accompaniments like sliced baguette, crackers, or fresh fruit. Sliced apples or pears pair beautifully with Brie, too!
