This Fig Walnut Baked Brie is a warm and cheesy treat that will impress your guests! Topped with sweet figs and crunchy walnuts, it’s perfect for sharing.
Honestly, watching this gooey cheese melt is so satisfying. I love serving it with crusty bread, and I might even sneak a bite or two before guests arrive! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Brie cheese: This soft cheese is key to the recipe. If Brie is hard to find, Camembert is a great substitute. It has a similar texture and flavor, making it perfect for baking.
Fig jam: Fig jam adds sweetness. If figs aren’t available, try using apricot or peach preserves. They’ll still give you that fruity flavor, but with a different twist.
Walnuts: Toasted walnuts add crunch and depth. If you have a nut allergy, try using sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a similar crunch.
Fresh thyme: Thyme adds a nice herbal note. If you don’t have fresh thyme, dried thyme works too. Just use half the amount since dried herbs are more potent.
Honey: The drizzle of honey brings out the sweetness. Agave syrup can be used instead for a vegan option.
How Do I Bake Brie Without It Melting Too Much?
Baking Brie is all about getting that perfect melty texture! Here are some tips to help you achieve this:
- Preheat your oven to the right temperature—350°F (175°C) is perfect for gentle melting.
- Keep the Brie in its rind during baking. This helps it hold its shape while it melts.
- Don’t overbake! Aim for 10-15 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the sides are soft, but it’s not completely oozing out.
These steps ensure that your Brie is warm, melty, and ready for dipping without losing its beautiful shape. Enjoy your delicious snack!
How to Make Fig Walnut Baked Brie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 wheel (8 oz) Brie cheese
- 1/3 cup fig jam or fig preserves
- 1/3 cup walnut halves, toasted
- 1-2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves (optional)
- 1-2 tablespoons honey
- Crackers or sliced baguette, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Fig Walnut Baked Brie takes about 5 minutes to prepare and will be baking for about 10-15 minutes. In total, you’re looking at around 20 minutes from start to finish—perfect for a quick and impressive appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature will warm the cheese and help it melt nicely without losing its shape.
2. Prepare the Brie:
Place the Brie wheel in a small oven-safe skillet or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. It’s important to keep the cheese in its rind, which will help contain the gooey goodness as it melts!
3. Spread the Fig Jam:
Take your fig jam or preserves and spread it evenly over the top of the Brie. This sweet layer will pair wonderfully with the creamy cheese.
4. Add Walnuts:
Sprinkle the toasted walnut halves over the fig jam. The walnuts will add a lovely crunch and nutty flavor to the dish.
5. Optional Thyme:
If you’re using fresh thyme, sprinkle the leaves on top for added aroma and flavor. It’s totally optional, but it adds a nice herbal note!
6. Bake the Brie:
Place the Brie in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-15 minutes. Keep an eye on it: you want the cheese to be soft and beginning to ooze but not completely melted. The perfect balance is key!
7. Drizzle with Honey:
Once out of the oven, drizzle honey over the warm Brie. This will enhance the sweetness and make it even more delicious!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Fig Walnut Baked Brie immediately with crackers or slices of baguette for dipping. Enjoy this warm, sweet, and nutty appetizer with friends or family!
This delightful dish is sure to impress everyone, and the best part is it comes together with such ease. Enjoy every gooey bite!
Can I Use Other Cheeses Besides Brie?
Yes! While Brie is the classic choice, you can also use Camembert for a similar texture and flavor. Creamy double or triple cream cheeses can work well too, just keep an eye on the baking time as they can melt faster.
How Do I Toast Walnuts?
To toast walnuts, simply spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes. Stir them halfway through to ensure they toast evenly. Just watch closely to prevent burning!
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
You can prepare the Brie with fig jam and walnuts in advance and refrigerate it, just bake it fresh before serving. Store it covered in the refrigerator for up to a day. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven straight from the fridge, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
What Are the Best Serving Suggestions?
This baked Brie pairs beautifully with crusty bread, crackers, or even apple slices! You can also add some fresh fruit or a simple salad on the side for a well-rounded appetizer spread.
