This Baked Brie with Fig Jam and Pecans is a warm and cheesy treat! The creamy brie melts perfectly while the sweet fig jam and crunchy pecans add tasty layers of flavor.
It’s great for sharing at parties, or for a cozy night in. Trust me, people will be coming back for seconds—you might even have to guard the leftovers! 😄
I love serving it with some crispy crackers. It’s super easy to make, and who doesn’t enjoy gooey cheese? Perfect for impressing friends without much fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Brie Cheese: This creamy cheese melts wonderfully when baked. If you can’t find brie, camembert is an excellent substitute, offering a similar flavor and texture.
Fig Jam: This sweet jam pairs beautifully with the cheese. Don’t have fig jam? Try using apricot or raspberry jam to add a different but still delightful fruit flavor.
Pecan Halves: Their crunch adds great texture! If you prefer, walnuts or almonds can easily replace pecans. Toasting them beforehand enhances the taste.
Honey: While optional, honey can add a lovely sweetness. Maple syrup is a great alternative if you’re looking for a different flavor profile.
Fresh Rosemary: This herb adds a lovely aroma and garnish. If rosemary isn’t available, thyme or even chopped parsley can work well.
How Do I Avoid Over-Melting My Brie?
Getting the perfect melt without going too far is key. Here are some tips:
- Don’t bake it too long—about 12-15 minutes is typically perfect.
- Keep an eye on it; when it starts to bubble at the edges, it’s ready!
- For a firmer texture, consider removing it from the oven when it’s warm and slightly gooey, rather than fully melted.
- Let it sit for a minute before serving, as it will continue to soften a bit out of the oven.
This way, you’ll end up with a delicious, gooey brie that’s perfect for dipping, without losing its shape completely. Enjoy your baking!
Baked Brie With Fig Jam And Pecans
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 wheel (8 oz) brie cheese
- 1/2 cup fig jam
- 1/4 cup pecan halves
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
- Fresh rosemary sprigs (for garnish)
- Crackers or sliced baguette, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful appetizer takes about 5 minutes to prepare and 12-15 minutes to bake, totaling around 20 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for gatherings or a cozy evening snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your brie bakes evenly and gets that lovely warm texture.
2. Prepare the Brie:
Place your wheel of brie in a small ovenproof skillet or baking dish. This is where all the magic happens, so choose your dish wisely!
3. Add the Fig Jam:
Spoon the fig jam generously on top of the brie, spreading it evenly. This sweet layer is going to complement the creamy cheese perfectly.
4. Scatter the Pecans:
Now, add the pecan halves on top and around the brie. Their crunch will give a delightful contrast to the soft cheese.
5. Add Honey (Optional):
If you like a hint of extra sweetness, drizzle some honey over the top. It’ll enhance the flavor even more!
6. Bake the Brie:
Carefully place your dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes. You want the brie to be soft and warm without losing its shape completely.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once it’s done, take it out and garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs for that lovely presentation. Serve it immediately with your favorite crackers or sliced baguette for the perfect dipping experience!
This warm baked brie topped with sweet fig jam and toasted pecans is a deliciously gooey, rich appetizer that’s sure to impress. Enjoy sharing this delightful dish with family and friends!
Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?
Absolutely! While brie is the classic choice, camembert or even a creamy goat cheese can work well. Just keep in mind that different cheeses may vary slightly in melting time.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, let the brie cool to room temperature, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven to enjoy it again!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
You can prepare everything in advance by placing the brie, fig jam, and pecans in the baking dish, then covering it and refrigerating it. Just bake it right before serving, allowing for a few extra minutes if it’s chilled from the fridge.
What Else Can I Serve With Baked Brie?
In addition to crackers and sliced baguette, consider adding fresh fruits like apple or pear slices, or even nuts such as almonds for extra crunch. Honey or a fruit compote on the side can also enhance the flavors!