Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 wheel brie (8 ounces)
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 3 tablespoons honey, divided use
- 1 ½ teaspoons chopped fresh thyme
- ¼ cup toasted chopped pecans
- Flaky sea salt, to taste
- 1 large egg
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or spray a pie plate with nonstick cooking spray and set aside.
- Trim the Brie: Using a sharp knife, carefully cut off the top rind of the brie wheel and set it aside. This allows the flavors to better meld with the toppings.
- Roll Out Puff Pastry: Unfold the thawed puff pastry onto a lightly floured surface. Using a rolling pin, roll the pastry out into about a 10 by 10-inch square to ensure it fully wraps around the brie.
- Assemble the Brie: Place the brie, rind-side down, in the center of the pastry square. Evenly spread 2 tablespoons of honey over the top of the brie. Sprinkle the chopped fresh thyme, toasted pecans, and a pinch of flaky sea salt over the honey layer.
- Wrap with Puff Pastry: Whisk the egg together with 1 tablespoon of water to create an egg wash. Fold one corner of the puff pastry over the brie and brush the folded section with the egg wash to help it stick. Continue pleating and folding the pastry around the brie, brushing with egg wash as you go, until the entire cheese wheel is wrapped securely.
- Brush and Bake: Carefully transfer the wrapped brie onto your prepared baking sheet or pie plate. Brush the entire outside of the puff pastry with the remaining egg wash to encourage browning. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the pastry is deep golden brown and cooked through on the bottom.
- Cool and Serve: Let the baked brie cool for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow it to set slightly. Drizzle the remaining 1 tablespoon of honey on top and garnish with additional toasted pecans and thyme if desired. Serve warm alongside apple slices and crackers for a delightful appetizer.
Notes
- Removing the top rind from the brie allows the toppings to infuse better with the cheese.
- Ensure puff pastry is well thawed but still cold for easier handling and better puff.
- Use fresh thyme for a more vibrant flavor compared to dried thyme.
- Letting the baked brie cool slightly prevents the cheese from oozing out too quickly when cut.
- This appetizer pairs wonderfully with crisp apple slices and assorted crackers.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French-inspired