Baked Brie with Strawberry Preserves
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
I absolutely love making Baked Brie with Strawberry Preserves for gatherings and special occasions. The combination of warm, gooey brie and sweet strawberry preserves creates a delightful balance of flavors that never fails to impress. Each bite is a luscious blend that satisfies both savory and sweet cravings. It’s incredibly easy to prepare and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, making it a go-to appetizer in our kitchen. Plus, it looks so elegant on a serving platter, it feels special even for casual get-togethers.
When I first made Baked Brie with Strawberry Preserves, I was astonished by how quickly and effortlessly it came together. I used a wheel of brie, topped it with quality strawberry preserves, and added a sprinkle of chopped nuts for extra crunch. The aroma that filled my kitchen was irresistible, and the first bite was heavenly. The key is to bake it just long enough for the cheese to become soft without losing its shape, creating an irresistible dip.
Over the years, I’ve experimented with various toppings, but the combination of strawberries and nuts remains my favorite. I often serve it with a selection of crackers, adding an array of textures to the dish. If you’re in need of a quick yet impressive appetizer, this Baked Brie never disappoints!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy brie that oozes with every slice
- Sweet and tangy strawberry preserves complement the richness beautifully
- Impressive presentation that requires minimal effort
Elevating the Cheese Experience
Using high-quality brie is crucial for achieving that delightful, melty texture. Look for a soft, creamy brie with a slight give when pressed. This will ensure that it melts beautifully in the oven. Avoid brie that feels overly firm, as it may not achieve that oozy consistency we all love. When placed in the heat, good brie should become invitingly soft, with its creamy center spilling out once sliced.
Pairing toppings with brie not only enhances the flavor but also contributes to the overall texture. The sweet and tangy strawberry preserves not only contrast with the rich creaminess of the cheese but also introduce an appealing glossy shine to the finished dish. If you want to experiment, consider adding a pinch of black pepper or fresh herbs like thyme for an aromatic twist.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
While this Baked Brie is delicious on its own, serving it with a variety of crackers or toasted baguette slices enhances the experience. For a gourmet touch, consider including different types of bread like sourdough or a nutty whole grain. The textures create a beautiful tapestry that complements the oozy cheese. I often set out a mix so my guests can pick their favorites, adding an interactive element to the appetizer.
You might also experiment with other fruit preserves, like raspberry or apricot, if you want to change the flavor profile or use what's on hand. Each fruit brings a unique note that pairs with the richness of brie. For an even heartier option, try layering fresh fruits, such as sliced strawberries or figs, over the preserves before baking for added flavor and visual appeal.
Ingredients
Ingredients for Baked Brie
Main Ingredients
- 1 wheel of brie cheese
- 1/2 cup strawberry preserves
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (e.g., walnuts or pecans)
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
- Crackers or bread for serving
Make sure to choose a good quality brie for the best flavor.
Instructions
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare the Brie
Place the wheel of brie on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Add Toppings
Spread the strawberry preserves evenly over the top of the brie. Sprinkle the chopped nuts on top, and drizzle with honey if desired.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is soft and gooey.
Serve
Remove from the oven, let cool for a minute, and serve warm with crackers or bread.
Enjoy this delicious appetizer hot!
Pro Tips
- For an extra touch, you can add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme before baking.
Make-Ahead Tips
Baked Brie can be prepped ahead of time for convenience without compromising flavor or texture. You can assemble the dish up to the baking point and cover it tightly with plastic wrap; simply refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. This is ideal for parties, allowing you to enjoy the moment rather than rush through prep time when guests arrive.
If you're planning to make a larger batch for a crowd, consider using smaller wheels of brie or forming a baked brie platter with different toppings. Just remember to adjust your oven time slightly, as smaller pieces might bake faster than a larger wheel. Keep an eye on the cheese, looking for that soft, creamy texture as a doneness indicator.
Storage and Reheating
Leftover Baked Brie is a rare find, but if you do have some, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place it back in the oven at a low temperature, around 300°F (150°C), for about 10 minutes to bring back that melty state without overcooking it. Microwave reheating is not recommended, as it can become rubbery.
If you're looking to preserve the quality longer, freezing brie before baking is an option. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to two months. When ready to use, allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight before topping and baking. While it won’t have the same fresh-from-the-oven quality as when prepared immediately, it still makes for a delightful treat in a pinch.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, camembert is a great alternative to brie.
→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?
You can assemble it ahead of time and bake it just before serving.
→ What other toppings can I use?
You can use other fruit preserves or even caramelized onions for variety.
→ How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days.
Baked Brie with Strawberry Preserves
I absolutely love making Baked Brie with Strawberry Preserves for gatherings and special occasions. The combination of warm, gooey brie and sweet strawberry preserves creates a delightful balance of flavors that never fails to impress. Each bite is a luscious blend that satisfies both savory and sweet cravings. It’s incredibly easy to prepare and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, making it a go-to appetizer in our kitchen. Plus, it looks so elegant on a serving platter, it feels special even for casual get-togethers.
Created by: Camilla Rhodes
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 1 wheel of brie cheese
- 1/2 cup strawberry preserves
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (e.g., walnuts or pecans)
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
- Crackers or bread for serving
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Place the wheel of brie on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Spread the strawberry preserves evenly over the top of the brie. Sprinkle the chopped nuts on top, and drizzle with honey if desired.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is soft and gooey.
Remove from the oven, let cool for a minute, and serve warm with crackers or bread.
Extra Tips
- For an extra touch, you can add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme before baking.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 14g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 7g