Prepare to elevate your appetizer game with a show-stopping dish that will have your guests swooning! This Blackberry Thyme Baked Brie en Croute is not just a recipe—it's a culinary masterpiece that transforms a simple wheel of Brie into a decadent, golden-brown sensation that combines the creamy richness of cheese with the burst of fresh blackberries and aromatic thyme. Whether you're hosting a sophisticated dinner party or looking to impress your family with a gourmet treat, this recipe promises to be your secret weapon in creating unforgettable food memories.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 wheel of Brie cheese
- 1 sheet of puff pastry
- 1 cup fresh blackberries
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Honey (for drizzling)
Instructions
- Remove the puff pastry from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes to become pliable. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Gently rinse the fresh blackberries and pat them dry with paper towels. Carefully strip the thyme leaves from their stems.
- Lightly dust a clean work surface with flour. Carefully unfold the puff pastry sheet and roll it out slightly to smooth any creases.
- Place the whole wheel of Brie cheese in the center of the pastry. Sprinkle fresh thyme leaves evenly over the top of the cheese.
- Arrange fresh blackberries around and on top of the Brie, creating a decorative pattern.
- Carefully fold the puff pastry edges up and over the cheese, pleating and pressing to seal completely. Trim any excess pastry if needed.
- Whisk the egg in a small bowl to create an egg wash. Brush the entire surface of the pastry with the egg wash, ensuring complete coverage.
- Place the wrapped Brie on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Create a few small decorative slits on top to allow steam to escape.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes to allow the cheese to set slightly.
- Before serving, drizzle honey over the top and garnish with additional fresh thyme leaves if desired.
- Serve warm with crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh fruit as accompaniments.
Tips
- Temperature Matters: Ensure your puff pastry is cold but pliable. Let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before rolling to prevent cracking.
- Seal Carefully: When folding the pastry, press the edges firmly to prevent cheese leakage during baking. Trim excess pastry to create a neat presentation.
- Egg Wash Technique: For a gorgeous golden shine, apply the egg wash evenly with a pastry brush, covering the entire surface of the pastry.
- Steam Vents: Those small slits on top aren't just decorative—they allow steam to escape and prevent the pastry from becoming soggy.
- Resting is Crucial: Let the Brie rest for 5-10 minutes after baking. This helps the cheese set and makes cutting and serving easier.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve with a variety of accompaniments like crisp crackers, toasted baguette slices, or fresh fruit to complement the rich, creamy Brie.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 75mg
