Bake brie and fig jam is an elegant yet approachable appetizer combines the creamy richness of brie cheese with the sweet allure of fig jam, all wrapped up in delicate layers of puff pastry. But that’s not all; it’s served with a tantalizing medley of fresh fruit, crisp crackers, and an assortment of savory cured meats, creating that perfect party board that will leave your taste buds singing. Join us as we delve into the world of this delightful autumn-inspired treat, perfect for any gathering or simply for indulging in the comforts of home.
Originally Posted December 1, 2022
Modified March 1, 2025
This brie appetizer is an elegant yet approachable appetizer that combines creamy brie cheese with the sweetness of the jam, all wrapped in delicate puff pastry. But the best part? It’s served on a cheese board with baguette slices, favorite crackers, and a medley of fresh fruit like pear slices and grapes, making it a true crowd-pleaser for holiday parties and dinner parties alike. Whether you’re entertaining guests or indulging at home, this easy holiday appetizer is a must-try!
Simple Ingredients for Baked Brie and Fig Jam
- Brie Wheel – The star of the dish, this soft cheese melts beautifully, creating an irresistible texture.
- Puff Pastry – Forms the flaky outer layer that encases the cheese wheel and sweet jam.
- Fig Preserves & Pear Preserves (or Favorite Jam) – The flavor of jam adds a sweet and slightly earthy contrast to the creamy cheese. You can also try strawberry jam, raspberry preserves, apricot jam, cranberry sauce, or orange marmalade for a different twist.
- Slivered Almonds – Brings a crunchy texture to the dish.
- Butter – Used to toast the almonds for added richness.
- Egg – Brushed on top for a golden, bakery-style finish.
- Fresh Herbs (Optional) Thyme, Parsley or Rosemary – Adds a pop of color and aroma to the serving platter.
How to Make Baked Brie and Fig Jam
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C) and line a parchment-lined baking sheet or small cast iron skillet with parchment paper.
- Place the wheel of brie cheese on a cutting board. Carefully trim the top rind if you prefer a gooier texture, or you just don’t like the rind. You can leave in place if you prefer the rind.
- Spread fig and pear preserves (or your favorite jam) on the top of the cheese.
- Wrap the brie wheel puff pastry, sealing the edges tightly.
- Using a scissors, cut off any excess pastry.
- At this point, place the brie in the freezer for at least 30minutes…this ensures that the puff pastry puffs up.
- Brush with egg wash and bake for 15 minutes, then add the buttered almonds and return for 5 minutes. Be sure the puff pastry has puffed and is nicely browned before adding the almonds.
- While brie is baking, place the butter in a small pan to melt, then add the slivered almonds. Gently stir to coat with the butter, and only slightly cook. They will finish in oven.
- When puff pastry is puffed and lightly browned pull out and top with almonds. Return for just a few minutes to brown the almonds.
- Let it cool slightly before transferring to a serving plate or serving tray.
- Garnish with fresh thyme or fresh rosemary and serve warm with baguette slices, favorite crackers, or apple slices.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Baked Brie
- Use Room Temperature Brie – Let the wedge of brie sit at room temperature before wrapping to ensure even melting.
- Enhance the Flavor – Sprinkle brown sugar on top of the jam before baking for a caramelized touch.
- Prevent Leaks – Seal the pastry edges tightly and place the brie en croûte on a parchment-lined baking sheet to catch any melted cheese.
- Try Different Jams – Experiment with types of jam like apricot preserves, raspberry jam, or cranberry sauce for a stronger flavor.
What to Serve with Baked Brie:
- Baguette Slices & Favorite Crackers – The perfect pairing for scooping up the melty cheese.
- Fresh Fruits – Apple slices, grapes, and pears balance the creaminess of the brie.
- Charcuterie Board – Add cured meats for a good party appetizer.
- Nuts & Honey – Drizzle honey over the brie and add toasted nuts for extra texture.
How to Store & Reheat Leftovers:
- Storage – Keep leftovers in an airtight container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating – Warm in an oven-safe dish at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes until gooey again. Avoid the microwave, as it can make the pastry soggy.
Bon Appétit!
This easy baked brie is one of the easiest appetizers to make during the busy holiday season. Whether you’re making it for a charcuterie board, dinner party, or casual gathering, this delicious appetizer is sure to impress. Check out the recipe card below and enjoy your cheesy party appetizer!
Ingredients
- 13.2 ounce Brie Cheese Round
- 1 sheet Puff Pastry thawed
- 1 Red Pears
- 2 tbls Fig preserves
- 1 cup Slivered almonds
- 1 tablespoon Butter
- 1 Egg
- 1 teaspoon Water
Instructions
- Using a paring knife, scrape white rind off outside of brie.13.2 ounce Brie Cheese
- Place sheet of thawed puff pastry onto a cool surface and put brie onto center of pastry.1 sheet Puff Pastry
- Slice Pear in half, and slice out core and seeds. Thinly slice pear slices. Arrange the pear slices on top of the brie.1 Red Pears
- Cover pear slices with jam. Fold corners of puff pastry over jam and into the center. Seal edges of dough Snip off corners with scissors, and seal.Place into a butter coated oven proof baking dish. Put pan into freezer for 30 minutes.2 tbls Fig preserves
- Pre-heat oven to 400 degrees F.
- Place almonds a butter in a sauce pan, and toast, tossing and stirring for a golden brown.1 cup Slivered almonds, 1 tablespoon Butter
- Whisk 1 egg with a teaspoon of water.1 Egg, 1 teaspoon Water
- Remove brie from freezer and coat puff pastry with egg wash. Place brie in hot oven. Turn brie every 10 minutes for 20-30, as ovens vary, till golden brown.
- At this point, sprinkle almonds over top of brie, and return to oven for 3-5 minutes
- Serve any of the additional almonds along the side of the brie
- Allow brie to rest for a few minutes, but be sure to serve warm
- Serve with crackers, bread, fresh fruit, and an assortment of cured meats
Nutrition
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That is absolutely decadent! I’ve been looking for something a little different to serve this Christmas and I just found it. That is fantastic!
I love baked brie so much, it’s running through my veins. The fig jam is an incredible addition!
Oh, my deliciousness! This looks and sounds amazing! I can’t wait to dig in and share it with my friends and family.
When there’s a holiday party, you’ll always find me hovering over the baked brie. This was amazing and I’m making it again for another gathering next weekend. Everyone loved it and asked for the recipe!