Description
This elegant Baked Brie with Fig Jam is a perfect appetizer featuring a warm, creamy wheel of French brie topped with a luscious blend of softened fig jam, dried mission figs, pistachios, and walnut hearts. Baked until melty and served with crackers, it’s a simple yet sophisticated dish ideal for entertaining or cozy nights in.
Ingredients
Fruit and Nut Topping
- 3 tbsp fig jam (or honey, divided)
- 1/4 to 1/3 cup dried mission figs, sliced
- 1/4 to 1/3 cup shelled pistachios, roughly chopped
- 1/4 to 1/3 cup walnut hearts, roughly chopped
Main
- 13-oz round French brie
Instructions
- Preheat the oven. Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking the brie evenly.
- Soften the fig jam. Place the fig jam in a microwave-safe dish and microwave for 30 seconds. This step makes the jam easier to spread and infuses its flavor smoothly into the dish.
- Prepare the fig and nut mixture. In a small bowl, combine the sliced dried figs, pistachios, and walnut hearts. Add half of the softened fig jam and mix well so the nuts and figs are coated evenly, enhancing their natural sweetness and texture.
- Coat the brie with jam. Place the brie round into a small cast iron skillet or any oven-safe dish. Using a small knife or spatula, spread the remaining fig jam or honey all over the top and sides of the cheese for a glossy, flavorful glaze.
- Top the brie. Spoon the fig and nut mixture evenly over the jam-coated brie, creating a delightful textured topping that will toast slightly while baking.
- Bake the brie. Set the skillet or dish on a baking sheet to make handling easier and to catch any cheese that might ooze out. Bake on the middle rack in your preheated oven for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the brie has softened and is warm and gooey inside.
- Serve warm. Remove the baked brie from the oven and let it rest for 3 to 5 minutes before serving. This brief cooling time allows the cheese to set slightly for easier scooping. Serve with your favorite crackers for a deliciously creamy and crunchy appetizer experience.
Notes
- If you prefer, substitute honey for fig jam to create a slightly different sweetness profile.
- Use a cast iron skillet if possible to distribute heat evenly and to provide a rustic serving presentation.
- This dish pairs beautifully with crisp crackers, toasted baguette slices, or fresh fruit slices.
- For a nut-free version, omit the pistachios and walnuts and add extra dried figs or seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds.
- Leftovers should be refrigerated and are best enjoyed warmed again briefly before serving.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French