Name: Baked Brie in Puff Pastry
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: French-American
Ingredients: 1 (8 oz) round brie cheese; 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed; 2–3 tablespoons pepper jelly (or fruit jam); 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash); Crackers or apple slices, for serving

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Short description

Baked brie in puff pastry is an incredibly easy yet impressive appetizer. The brie cheese becomes wonderfully melty and gooey, while the puff pastry turns golden and crispy, making it a perfect combination of textures. The addition of pepper jelly gives it a delightful sweet and spicy kick.

Baked Brie in Puff Pastry

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how simple this recipe is to prepare, yet it looks and tastes like something from a high-end restaurant. The warm, melted brie combined with the flaky, buttery pastry is irresistible. I also enjoy the versatility of the dish; you can adjust the flavor profile by using different types of jams or jellies. Plus, it only takes about an hour to prepare, making it a go-to for last-minute gatherings or parties.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Brie cheese round (around 8 oz)
Frozen puff pastry sheet, thawed
Pepper jelly (sweet or hot, depending on your taste)
Large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Crackers or apple slices, for serving

directions

I begin by preheating my oven to 400°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper.
I roll out the puff pastry into an 11-inch square on a lightly floured surface.
I place the brie, rind still on, in the center of the pastry square and spread pepper jelly evenly on top.
I fold the edges of the pastry up over the cheese, pleating as I go, and brush each fold with beaten egg to seal.
I score the top of the pastry lightly with a knife in 1-inch intervals (without cutting through).
I bake the pastry in the oven until golden brown and cooked through, about 35 minutes.
After removing it from the oven, I let it rest for about 10 minutes before serving it with crackers or apple slices.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 8 people. The total time is roughly 55 minutes, including about 10 minutes of prep time and 35 minutes of baking. Be sure to let the brie rest for about 10 minutes after baking to allow the cheese to set a bit.

Variations

I’ve swapped pepper jelly for fruit jams like apricot, fig, or raspberry, which adds a delightful sweetness that pairs well with the brie.
Sometimes, I add toasted nuts such as walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and flavor.
For mini versions, I’ve used phyllo cups instead of puff pastry and filled them with brie and jelly for bite-sized appetizers that are perfect for parties.

storage/reheating

I typically prepare this ahead of time up to the point of wrapping the brie in pastry (Step 3). I wrap the unbaked pastry tightly in foil and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. When I’m ready to bake, I place it directly in the oven, even if it’s chilled. If the cheese firms up after resting, I heat it gently in a low oven to soften it again. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for a day or two, but they are best when fresh.

FAQs

What size brie should I use?

I usually use an 8 oz wheel of brie, which fits perfectly in a standard sheet of puff pastry and serves around 6–8 people.

Do I remove the rind before baking?

I keep the rind on as it helps contain the cheese while it melts, preventing leakage and creating a beautiful presentation.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, I often prep this up to 2 days in advance. After assembling, I wrap it tightly and refrigerate it. When ready, I bake it directly from the fridge.

What’s the best type of jelly to use?

I enjoy using pepper jelly for a sweet and spicy contrast, but I also love experimenting with fruit jams like apricot, raspberry, or fig for a sweeter variation.

How long does the baked brie stay gooey?

The baked brie stays beautifully melty for about 30 minutes once out of the oven. If I need to keep it warm longer, I cover it loosely with foil to retain heat.

Conclusion

Baked brie in puff pastry is an irresistible appetizer that’s simple to make yet looks stunning. Whether I’m hosting a party or just want a special treat, this dish is always a hit. The combination of creamy brie, flaky pastry, and the perfect touch of jam or jelly is a winner every time.