There’s something incredibly special about the combination of warm, gooey cheese wrapped snugly in flaky pastry, especially when it’s drizzled with sweet fig jam. This Baked Brie with Fig Jam has become my go-to for gatherings, cozy nights in, or just when I need a little indulgence. As a child, I remember enjoying cheese platters at family gatherings, and this evolved into my love for baked cheeses. There’s something comforting, even nostalgic, about that melty center just waiting to be dipped into.
Why you’ll love this recipe
Why settle for ordinary cheese when you can elevate the experience? This baked brie brings together the rich, creamy flavor of brie with the caramel-like sweetness of fig jam, wrapped in a cloud of buttery puff pastry. It’s a match made in culinary heaven! Imagine the first bite: the crisp, flaky exterior gives way to a soft, luscious center, mingling with the fruity notes of fig.
Whether you’re hosting friends or simply treating yourself, this dish impressively balances elegance and simplicity. It’s ideal for entertaining because it comes together in no time and never fails to leave everyone swooning. Plus, who doesn’t appreciate a dish that’s an absolute showstopper but requires minimal effort? Serve it warm with crackers or a lovely baguette, and watch everyone’s faces light up.
Gather these ingredients
Let’s dive into what you need to create this delightful masterpiece:
Brie Cheese: A luscious round of brie is the star here. The creaminess and mild flavor make it perfect for melting, while its rind adds a touch of nuttiness. If you can’t find brie, camembert is a great alternative, with a similar texture and taste.
Fig Jam: The sweet and slightly tangy flavors of fig jam are like a hug for the palate. You could even whip up homemade fig jam if you’re feeling adventurous! But store-bought does the trick wonderfully and saves time.
Puff Pastry: This is what makes everything magical. Flaky and light, it creates an irresistible golden shell. Make sure to take it out of the freezer well in advance for easy rolling. You could also use phyllo dough for a thinner, crispier option if that’s what you have on hand.
Egg (for egg wash): Just one egg is all you need to give that stunning golden finish to your pastry. If you’re vegan, a mixture of almond milk and a bit of maple syrup can do the job, giving it a sweet touch.
Crackers or Bread: Don’t forget the accompaniments! A variety of crackers or slices of a rustic baguette will be perfect for scooping up that gooey goodness. You can also try it with sliced apples for an extra crunch and flavor combo.
How this recipe comes together
Ready to get your hands doughy? Here’s how to craft this delight step-by-step:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This sets the stage for the magic about to unfold.
Roll out your puff pastry on a lightly floured surface until it’s nice and even. You want it to be large enough to envelop the brie.
Place the round of brie cheese at the center of the pastry. Now, add a generous dollop of fig jam on top. Don’t be shy; this is where the flavor really shines!
Gently fold the pastry over the cheese and jam, creating a cozy package. Seal the edges tightly—you don’t want any of that gooey goodness escaping!
Brush the top with the beaten egg, letting it shine and turn golden in the oven.
Slide this beauty into the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you’re looking for that golden brown color that means it’s ready.
Once you pull it out, let it cool for a minute. It’s tempting, I know, but allow it to rest a bit. Then serve warm with your choice of crackers or bread and dive in!
What to serve it with
The best way to enjoy this baked brie is to create a vibrant cheese board. Picture this: alongside your baked brie, lay out an assortment of savory crackers, slices of a crusty baguette, and maybe even some artisan breadsticks for variety. Fresh fruits like pears or apple slices would complement the dish beautifully, offering a refreshing crunch against the creaminess of the cheese. If you’re feeling fancy, a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of crushed nuts can take it to a whole new level!
Storage and reheating tips
Got leftovers? Oh, lucky you! Store any extras in an airtight container in the fridge. While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can reheat it gently in the oven at a low temperature for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Avoid the microwave if you can—it tends to turn that beautifully flaky pastry into a soggy disappointment. You can freeze it before baking as well, but it’s best baked fresh for the ultimate textural experience.
Helpful cooking tips
Here are a few pro tips to make this recipe a breeze:
Choose Quality: The highest quality brie makes a big difference. Check for freshness and ripeness at your cheese counter.
Softening the Cheese: If your brie is very cold, let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before assembling. This ensures it gets gooey rather than just warm.
Cleaning Up: To avoid mess with parchment paper, lay down a light dusting of flour before rolling out the pastry. Your counter will stay clean, and the pastry won’t stick.
Creative Twists
Feeling adventurous? Here are a few variations to consider:
Fruit Swaps: Instead of fig jam, try apricot or cranberry jam for a different flavor profile.
Nutty Additions: Add some chopped walnuts or pecans inside for a bit of crunch and nuttiness.
Herbs and Spices: Sprinkle fresh thyme or rosemary on the cheese before folding it in for an herbaceous note that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the jam.
Ingredients
- 1 round of brie cheese
- 1/2 cup fig jam
- 1 sheet puff pastry
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Crackers or bread (for serving)
Directions to follow
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface.
- Place the brie cheese in the center of the pastry and top with fig jam.
- Fold the pastry over the cheese and jam, sealing the edges.
- Brush the top with beaten egg.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before serving. Serve warm with crackers or bread.
Your questions answered
Can I make this ahead of time? Absolutely! Assemble everything and store it in the fridge wrapped tightly until you’re ready to bake. Just let it sit at room temp for about 15 minutes before popping it in the oven.
What can I use instead of fig jam? Any sweet jam will work, such as raspberry or peach. Get creative!
How long does it take to make? The prep is quick—about 15-20 minutes—plus 20-25 minutes in the oven. Easy peasy!
What wine pairs well? A nice sparkling white or a slightly sweet rosé complements the dish perfectly.
Is this recipe vegetarian-friendly? Yes, as long as you check your puff pastry and jam for any non-vegetarian ingredients.
There’s a reason this Baked Brie with Fig Jam is an all-time favorite. It’s a sumptuous indulgence that brings people together, warms the soul, and leaves a lasting impression. So, roll up your sleeves and give it a try! I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out and what unique twists you add to the dish. After all, cooking is all about experimenting and enjoying the process!
Baked Brie with Fig Jam
Description
Experience the luxurious combination of warm, gooey brie cheese wrapped in flaky puff pastry and drizzled with sweet fig jam. This baked brie is perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying a cozy night in.Main Ingredients
Ingredients
Steps to Prepare
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).Prepare the Pastry
Roll out your puff pastry on a lightly floured surface until it is large enough to envelop the brie.Assemble
Place the round of brie cheese in the center of the pastry and top with a generous dollop of fig jam.Seal the Pastry
Gently fold the pastry over the cheese and jam, sealing the edges tightly.Apply Egg Wash
Brush the top of the pastry with the beaten egg.Bake
Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the pastry is golden brown.Serve Warm
Let cool slightly before serving warm with crackers or bread.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 300kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 20g31%
- Saturated Fat 10g50%
- Trans Fat 0g
- Cholesterol 100mg34%
- Sodium 400mg17%
- Potassium 150mg5%
- Total Carbohydrate 25g9%
- Dietary Fiber 2g8%
- Sugars 5g
- Protein 7g15%
- Vitamin A 500 IU
- Vitamin C 0 mg
- Calcium 100 mg
- Iron 1 mg
- Vitamin D 0 IU
- Vitamin E 1 IU
- Vitamin K 0 mcg
- Thiamin 0 mg
- Riboflavin 0 mg
- Niacin 0 mg
- Vitamin B6 0 mg
- Folate 0 mcg
- Vitamin B12 0 mcg
- Biotin 0 mcg
- Pantothenic Acid 0 mg
- Phosphorus 150 mg
- Iodine 0 mcg
- Magnesium 0 mg
- Zinc 1 mg
- Selenium 0 mcg
- Copper 0 mg
- Manganese 0 mg
- Chromium 0 mcg
- Molybdenum 0 mcg
- Chloride 0 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
