Looking for a classic comfort food that’s as easy as 1, 2, 3? We’ve got the answer: Baked Brie. With or without the puff pastry, this cheesy delight is a melty, indulgent treat that takes just a few minutes to prep, and is guaranteed to please at any gathering. Let’s take a look at some of our favorite components, toppings, and how a simple wheel of brie can be transformed into gourmet appetizer or dessert.
Brie is a world famous cheese that’s often at the top of mind when looking to serve something crowd-pleasing and mild, and for good reason. This bloomy French selection is beloved for its downy white rind and buttery paste, which can range from sweet and milky to mushroomy and earthy. When it’s cooked, it doesn’t melt down completely the same way some Alpine cheeses do–like the ones used for fondue–but rather it maintains its shape, and the center becomes an oozing, gooey delight.
This category of cheeses includes ones similar to brie, but with slightly different characteristics. A round of Camembert can easily be substituted for a wheel of brie in a baked brie recipe, but some fluffier cheeses that fall into the triple creme category–meaning an intensity of butterfat and a slightly more malleable texture–are better for snacking and dipping than melting.
Now it’s time to get baking–a traditional baked brie recipe allows for variation, which is why it’s such a flexible favorite for holiday gatherings. But the basics are the same: Take a wheel of brie, add a dollop of jam on top, and pop it into the oven until it’s melted to perfection. Some variations involve wrapping the jam-topped cheese in puff pastry and giving it an egg wash before baking, which adds an exterior of light, crispy dough.
Our favorite way to do it? We like to keep it simple with a few classic Murray’s products. First, a Murray’s Mini Brie. This miniature round is the perfect size for snacking and serving, and will easily fit into a small crock. Then, we top it off with one of our Murray’s jams like Spiced Cherry or Cranberry Orange Preserves (check out our giftable jam trio for inspiration!). Then, we top it off with a handful of marcona almonds–sweet, salty, and tender, they add a nice touch of texture to the mix.
The result? A mouthwatering blend of creamy, melted cheese and rich fruit jam that’s made for scooping, serving, and snacking with a crusty baguette or artisanal crackers. And if you’re looking for a cooking kit that’ll provide a one-stop-shop for crafting five-star baked brie, look no further than our Brie Baker Hosting Set, a collection that includes not only a Murray’s Mini Brie, but also a rich fig jam and a chef-approved ceramic cheese baker from Boska.
Now you’re ready to dig into holiday flavor! For more inspiration, check out our Baked Brie recipe, which features a classic sweet variety and a more savory option for the adventurous eater. And for more holiday favorites, our selection of pantry items is stocked with seasonal selections that are perfect for serving with your baked brie creation or another homemade treat.
