Baked Brie in Puff Pastry with Honey, Fig, and Prosciutto
This Baked Brie in Puff Pastry is an elegant and decadent appetizer that combines the creaminess of brie with the sweetness of honey and fig preserves, all wrapped in flaky puff pastry with savory prosciutto. It’s perfect for holiday gatherings or any special occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1 (8-12 oz) wheel of brie cheese
- 1-2 tbsp honey
- 1-2 tbsp fig preserves
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
- 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
- 4-8 slices thin prosciutto
- 1 egg, beaten
- Coarse sugar, for sprinkling
Directions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Prepare the Puff Pastry:
- Lay Out Pastry: Lay the thawed puff pastry flat on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Score the Brie: Place the wheel of brie in the center of the pastry. Use a knife to score the top of the brie in a crosshatch pattern. This allows the flavors to better penetrate the cheese.
3. Add the Toppings:
- Spread Fig Preserves: Spread the fig preserves evenly over the top of the brie.
- Drizzle Honey: Drizzle the honey over the fig preserves.
- Season: Sprinkle the fresh thyme leaves and a pinch of black pepper over the top.
4. Wrap with Prosciutto:
- Wrap with Prosciutto: Gently wrap the slices of prosciutto around the brie, overlapping slightly.
- Fold the Puff Pastry: Carefully fold the corners of the puff pastry up and over the brie, completely covering it. Press the edges to seal.
5. Brush and Sprinkle:
- Brush with Egg Wash: Brush the puff pastry with the beaten egg, making sure to cover all exposed areas for a golden finish.
- Sprinkle with Sugar: Lightly sprinkle coarse sugar on top for a touch of sweetness and added crunch.
6. Bake:
- Bake the Brie: Place the brie in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the puff pastry is deep golden brown and crispy.
7. Serve:
- Serve Warm: Let the baked brie cool for a few minutes, then serve warm with your favorite bread or crackers.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pairings: Serve with a selection of sliced apples, pears, or grapes for a fresh contrast to the rich flavors.
- Beverage Pairing: A glass of champagne or a light white wine complements the dish beautifully.
Tips:
- Prevent Leaks: Ensure the puff pastry is well-sealed to avoid any cheese from leaking out during baking.
- Customize: Try swapping fig preserves with apricot or raspberry jam for a different flavor profile.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the brie up to step 5, then refrigerate until ready to bake. Just increase the baking time by a few minutes if baking straight from the fridge.
FAQs:
1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
- Yes, camembert is a great alternative, as it has a similar creamy texture.
2. What if I don’t have coarse sugar?
- You can skip the sugar or use a light sprinkle of regular granulated sugar.
3. How do I know when the brie is ready?
- The pastry should be golden brown, and when you cut into it, the brie should be melted and oozy.
4. Can I reheat leftovers?
- Yes, reheat in a low oven (about 300°F) until warmed through. However, the pastry may not be as crisp as when first baked.
5. What other toppings can I add?
- Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans can be added inside the puff pastry for extra texture.
Enjoy this indulgent Baked Brie in Puff Pastry with Honey, Fig, and Prosciutto as a standout appetizer at your next gathering!