This Fig Walnut Baked Brie is a warm and cozy treat that’s perfect for gatherings. The creamy brie cheese melts beautifully, topped with sweet figs and crunchy walnuts!
It’s so easy to make—you can just throw it in the oven and watch it transform into a cheesy masterpiece. Serve it with crackers and enjoy the happy faces around the table!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Brie Cheese: This soft cheese is essential for that creamy texture. If you can’t find Brie, Camembert makes a great substitute. I love the richness of Brie, but the tanginess of Camembert can add an interesting twist!
Fig Jam: Fig jam is the star here, adding sweetness. If you’re looking for substitutes, try apricot jam or even honey to keep it sweet. I find that a sprinkle of cinnamon mixed in adds a nice warmth to the dish.
Walnuts: Walnuts add crunch and a nice earthy flavor. If you have nut allergies or want variety, try pecans or even sunflower seeds for a different texture. I often mix in some almonds for extra crunch!
Fresh Thyme: Thyme gives a wonderful herbaceous note. If fresh thyme isn’t available, dried thyme can work in a pinch—just use half the amount since it’s more concentrated. Fresh herbs are always my preference, though!
How Do I Bake the Brie Without It Melting Too Much?
Baking Brie is simple, but timing is key! The goal is a gooey center without a puddle. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Warm your oven first to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even cooking.
- Start by baking the Brie for about 15 minutes. Check it around the 10-minute mark to see how soft it’s getting.
- It should be soft on the outside but still hold its shape. If it starts to leak too much, it’s done!
I find that keeping the cheese whole until after baking helps it stay in shape, and it makes for a beautiful presentation!
Fig Walnut Baked Brie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 (8-ounce) wheel of Brie cheese
- 1/3 cup fig jam or fig preserves
- 1/2 cup walnuts, roughly chopped (plus a few whole for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme sprigs
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon whole grain mustard (optional)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Baguette or crackers, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Fig Walnut Baked Brie takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to bake. So, in total, you’ll need around 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick and impressive appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your Brie will bake evenly and come out warm and gooey!
2. Prepare the Brie:
Take your wheel of Brie and place it into a small oven-safe dish or a cast iron skillet. This will give it a cozy space to bake and melt.
3. Mix the Toppings:
In a small bowl, mix together the fig jam, chopped walnuts, honey, and whole grain mustard if you’re using it. This combination is what makes the dish so special—a sweet and nutty delight!
4. Assemble the Dish:
Pour the fig and walnut mixture over the top of the Brie, spreading it out evenly. You want every bite to have that sweet goodness!
5. Add the Finishing Touches:
Sprinkle fresh thyme sprigs on top of the Brie and add a few shakes of freshly ground black pepper. This adds a lovely aromatic touch!
6. Bake the Brie:
Place the Brie in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on it, and once it’s soft and starting to ooze (but not completely melted), it’s ready to come out!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Carefully remove the Brie from the oven and transfer it to a serving platter if you like. Serve it warm with slices of baguette or crackers for dipping and spreading. Everyone will love this delightful treat!
Enjoy the creamy, sweet, and nutty flavors of Fig Walnut Baked Brie—perfect for parties or a cozy snack!
Can I Use Different Nuts in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While walnuts offer a nice crunch, you can substitute them with pecans, almonds, or even hazelnuts if you prefer. Just ensure they are roughly chopped for even spreading over the Brie.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers (though they’re rare!), cover the Brie tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes before serving again.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the dish up to the baking step. Just cover it tightly and keep it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake it straight from the fridge; it might require an extra few minutes in the oven to warm through.
What Should I Serve with the Baked Brie?
This dish pairs wonderfully with slices of crusty baguette, crackers, or even apple slices for a fresh contrast. You can also add some sliced cured meats for a heartier appetizer spread.