Ingredients
Scale
- 1 wheel of Brie cheese (about 8 oz.)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey (for a touch of sweetness)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary or thyme (fresh herbs bring out the best flavors)
- ¼ cup chopped nuts (such as almonds, walnuts, or pecans)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (optional for an added tangy finish)
- Fresh bread or crackers, for serving
Ingredient Highlights
- Brie Cheese: The star of the show! Brie’s creamy texture and mild flavor make it the perfect base for various toppings. This soft cheese becomes even more indulgent once it’s baked.
- Olive Oil: A drizzle of olive oil helps bring out the natural flavors of the Brie and ensures that it heats evenly.
- Honey: Adding honey gives a subtle sweetness that complements the richness of the cheese and balances the savory elements.
- Fresh Herbs: Fresh rosemary or thyme adds a lovely aromatic quality that enhances the overall taste of the appetizer.
- Nuts: Adding chopped nuts provides a satisfying crunch and nuttiness, which contrasts beautifully with the smooth Brie.
- Balsamic Glaze: For an optional drizzle, balsamic glaze adds a tangy finish that cuts through the richness of the Brie.
Instructions
Prepare the Brie
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that the Brie melts evenly and becomes perfectly gooey.
- Prepare the Brie Wheel: If the Brie has a wax rind, you can leave it on, as it will soften and become part of the overall texture. However, if you prefer a rindless Brie, feel free to carefully remove the rind with a sharp knife.
- Place Brie on Baking Sheet: Place the Brie wheel on a parchment-lined baking sheet or a baking dish. You may want to use a small dish to contain any melting cheese.
Add Toppings
- Drizzle Olive Oil: Drizzle the olive oil over the top of the Brie to help it melt smoothly and add some extra richness.
- Add Honey: Drizzle honey on top of the Brie. This adds a beautiful sweet note that balances out the savory elements.
- Sprinkle Herbs and Nuts: Sprinkle the chopped fresh rosemary or thyme over the Brie, followed by a handful of chopped nuts. The herbs will infuse the cheese with fragrance, while the nuts provide a lovely contrast in texture.
Bake the Brie
- Bake the Brie: Place the Brie in the oven and bake for about 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese has softened and the top is slightly golden and bubbly. Keep an eye on it to make sure it doesn’t overcook or spill over.
- Optional Balsamic Glaze: If using balsamic glaze, drizzle it over the Brie right before serving for a touch of tang and color.
Serve the Appetizer
- Remove and Let Cool: Once the Brie is perfectly melted and gooey, remove it from the oven and let it sit for a minute or two to cool slightly. This allows the cheese to firm up slightly and makes it easier to serve.
- Serve: Arrange the Brie on a serving platter and surround it with fresh bread slices, crackers, or fruit for dipping. It’s perfect for sharing!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 17G
- Carbohydrates: 4G
- Protein: 6G