Baked Brie in Puff Pastry is a simple yet impressive dish that brings together creamy, gooey cheese wrapped in golden, flaky pastry. The warm brie melts perfectly inside, creating a rich, melty center that pairs beautifully with the crisp layers of puff pastry. It’s a perfect combination of textures and flavors that’s both elegant and comforting.
I love making this for gatherings because it’s such a crowd-pleaser and requires very little effort. Sometimes I like to add a spoonful of jam or a sprinkle of nuts before wrapping the brie, which adds a lovely touch of sweetness and crunch. It always feels like a special treat, but honestly, it’s so easy to throw together that it can quickly become a favorite anytime snack or appetizer.
My favorite way to enjoy baked brie is alongside some fresh fruit and crusty bread. The contrast of creamy cheese, flaky pastry, and juicy fruit makes every bite exciting. Whenever I bring this dish to a party, people keep coming back for more, and I find myself watching that pastry edge disappear before the cheese even has a chance to cool down!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Brie Cheese: The star of this recipe is creamy brie. I use a wheel about 8 ounces for easy wrapping. If you want a milder option, camembert works well too. For a dairy-free choice, try a soft vegan cheese, but the texture changes.
Puff Pastry: Puff pastry creates the delicious flaky crust. Store-bought frozen sheets are perfect and save time. Thaw it in the fridge to avoid it getting too soft and sticky.
Nuts: I add chopped pecans for crunch and contrast. You can swap them for walnuts or almonds. If you prefer no nuts, you can skip this or add dried fruit instead.
Honey: Honey adds a touch of sweetness that pairs great with creamy brie. You can substitute maple syrup or fruit preserves if you want a different flavor twist.
Egg Wash: Brushing egg wash helps the puff pastry turn golden and shiny. If avoiding eggs, use milk or melted butter for a softer color.
How Do You Wrap Brie in Puff Pastry Without Leaks or Mess?
Wrapping the brie neatly in puff pastry is key to keeping everything together and looking good. Here’s how I do it:
- Lightly flour your surface before rolling out pastry so it won’t stick.
- Put the brie wheel right in the center and add honey and nuts on top.
- When folding, bring edges up and pleat gently, making sure to pinch the seams very well to seal the cheese in.
- Tuck the sealed edges underneath to create a smooth base, which helps it sit flat on the baking sheet.
- Score the top lightly after brushing with egg wash; this lets steam escape and stops the pastry from puffing unevenly.
Taking your time with these steps helps you get that perfect golden, puffy crust with melty brie inside—no leaks or burnt edges!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – provides a flat surface for even baking and easy cleanup.
- Parchment paper – prevents sticking and keeps your baking sheet clean.
- Rolling pin – helps smooth out puff pastry for better wrapping.
- Pastry brush – perfect for applying egg wash for a golden, shiny crust.
- Sharp knife – for scoring the pastry without cutting all the way through.
- Measuring spoons – handy for adding precise amounts of honey and nuts.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add a spoonful of fig jam or raspberry preserves on top of the brie for a sweet and tangy twist.
- Sprinkle fresh rosemary or thyme inside the puff pastry for an herby aroma and deeper flavor.
- Mix in chopped dried cranberries with the nuts to add chewy sweetness and color.
- Swap pecans for toasted walnuts or almonds depending on your preferred crunch and taste.
Baked Brie in Puff Pastry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
- 1 wheel of brie cheese (about 8 ounces)
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Fresh thyme sprigs (optional, for garnish)
For Serving:
- Crackers, grapes, and fresh fruit
Time You’ll Need:
This recipe comes together quickly with about 10 minutes of prep time and 20 to 25 minutes of baking. Allow an additional 5 minutes to cool before serving. In total, plan for around 35 to 40 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Pastry:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a lightly floured surface, gently roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet just enough to smooth any creases and create an even surface for wrapping.
2. Assemble the Brie:
Place the wheel of brie in the center of the pastry. Drizzle the honey evenly over the top, then sprinkle the chopped nuts across the honey for a lovely crunchy texture and flavor.
3. Wrap and Seal:
Carefully fold the edges of the puff pastry up and over the brie, pleating the dough as needed to cover the cheese completely. Press the seams tightly to seal, and tuck the excess dough underneath to create a neat package.
4. Prepare for Baking:
Transfer the wrapped brie onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, placing it seam side down so it stays closed during baking. Beat the egg and brush it gently over the pastry to give it a beautiful golden color once baked.
5. Add Decorative Touches and Bake:
Use a sharp knife to lightly score a decorative pattern on top of the pastry, being careful not to cut all the way through. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the puff pastry is puffed up and a gorgeous golden brown.
6. Cool and Serve:
Let the baked brie cool for about 5 minutes before moving it to a serving board. Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs if you like. Serve warm with crackers, grapes, nuts, and fresh fruit for a delightful and elegant appetizer.
Can I Use Frozen Puff Pastry?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw it completely in the fridge overnight before using. Thawed puff pastry is easier to work with and helps ensure it bakes evenly.
Can I Prepare Baked Brie in Puff Pastry Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the wrapped brie and keep it refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking. Just let it come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before popping it in the oven.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes until warmed through to keep the pastry crisp.
Can I Add Other Fillings Inside the Puff Pastry?
Yes! Try adding a spoonful of fruit preserves like fig or raspberry, or sprinkle fresh herbs such as rosemary or thyme for extra flavor. Just make sure not to overfill to avoid pastry leaks.
