Gooey Baked Brie with Fig Compote

Among the myriad of appetizer options, this particular baked brie recipe, often referred to as brie en croute, stands out as a must-try. While many classic baked brie preparations feature pecans and brown sugar, this version offers a refreshing and sophisticated twist with the vibrant flavor of fig jam. Throughout this comprehensive guide, you’ll discover numerous ways to customize this delightful recipe, ensuring it becomes the undeniable star of your next holiday party or special occasion.

Figs, with their unique sweet, earthy, and lightly floral notes, are a true treasure of early fall. We adore incorporating fresh figs into our culinary creations, whether it’s on a savory fig and prosciutto flatbread or in a luscious fig upside-down cake. Their versatile flavor profile makes them a perfect companion for both sweet and savory dishes, enhancing every bite with their distinctive charm. This baked brie recipe beautifully showcases the fig’s ability to complement the creamy richness of brie cheese, creating a harmonious and utterly delicious combination.

Why This Baked Brie Recipe Will Be Your Go-To Appetizer

Looking for an appetizer that combines elegance with effortlessness? Our baked brie with fig jam is the answer. This recipe offers a multitude of reasons why it will quickly become your favorite for entertaining.

Effortless Elegance: An Easy, Make-Ahead Appetizer

This isn’t just an easy recipe; it’s a super-fast one! Requiring only about 5 minutes of active preparation time, this quick appetizer can even be assembled a day in advance, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your event. By utilizing readily available store-bought ingredients like pre-made puff pastry and high-quality fig jam, you minimize effort without sacrificing an ounce of flavor. It’s the perfect solution for busy hosts who want to serve something impressive without spending hours in the kitchen. Imagine pulling out a perfectly prepped brie from the fridge, popping it into the oven, and having a gourmet appetizer ready in under half an hour. That’s maximum flavor with minimal fuss.

A Guaranteed Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for Any Palate

Baked brie is universally loved, and this fig jam variation takes it to the next level. Its sweet, savory, and rich profile appeals to a wide range of tastes, making it a guaranteed hit at any gathering. The beauty of this dish lies in its customizability. You can arrange a diverse assortment of dippers around the melted brie, ensuring everyone finds something they enjoy. From crisp apple slices to toasted baguette, gourmet crackers, or even savory prosciutto, the possibilities are endless. This warm, cozy option serves as an excellent complement to, or even a sophisticated alternative for, traditional charcuterie boards. And, of course, a delightful glass of wine truly completes the experience, making every bite feel like a celebration.

An Irresistible Medley of Taste & Texture

Prepare for an explosion of flavors and textures in every single bite. This baked brie is a masterful blend of sweet and salty, earthy and fresh. The golden, flaky puff pastry creates a delightful contrast to the incredibly gooey, melted brie cheese held within. The luscious sweetness of the fig jam perfectly balances the rich, buttery notes of the brie, while a hint of earthy freshness from suggested garnishes like rosemary ties all the elements together. It’s a symphony of culinary sensations – the crunch of the pastry, the creamy warmth of the cheese, and the vibrant sweetness of the jam – making for an utterly unforgettable appetizer experience that tantalizes all your senses.

Essential Ingredients for Your Perfect Baked Brie

Crafting this irresistible baked brie with fig jam requires just a few key ingredients. Quality matters here, as each component plays a crucial role in achieving the desired taste and texture. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need:

• Sheet of Puff Pastry: This forms the golden, flaky crust that encases the gooey brie. You have two excellent options: a quality store-bought puff pastry (ensure it’s thawed according to package instructions) for ultimate convenience, or, for an extra touch of homemade pride, you can use a homemade rough puff pastry. Both will yield delicious results, but the store-bought variety significantly cuts down on prep time.
• Wheel of Brie Cheese: The heart of our appetizer. Opt for a 16oz (approximately 450g) round of brie. While the President brand is a widely available and excellent all-around choice, feel free to explore double or triple cream brie varieties for an even richer, more luxurious texture and flavor. The rind of brie is completely edible and contributes to its unique taste and texture, so there’s no need to remove it before baking.
• Fig Jam: The sweet and savory complement to the brie. A good quality store-bought fig preserves works perfectly. Look for one with a rich fig flavor and good consistency. If you’re feeling ambitious and have access to fresh figs, this homemade fig jam recipe is a fantastic option that allows you to control the sweetness and spice level.
• Egg: This is essential for creating the beautiful, golden-brown, glossy finish on your puff pastry. Whisked with a splash of water, it creates an egg wash that not only adds shine but also helps the pastry achieve that desirable crisp texture.
• Dippers & Garnish: The final flourish that makes this appetizer truly spectacular. Offer a variety of accompaniments to cater to different preferences. Consider crisp apple slices, thinly sliced baguette (toasted or fresh), an assortment of gourmet crackers (water crackers, rosemary, or cracked black pepper crackers are excellent choices), savory prosciutto, fresh figs (sliced or quartered), a selection of nuts (walnuts, pistachios, or pecans add crunch), and a drizzle of honey. Fresh rosemary sprigs or finely chopped thyme also add a fragrant, elegant touch.

For precise measurements and detailed instructions, please refer to the recipe section below.

Creative Substitutions & Flavorful Variations

One of the best aspects of baked brie is its incredible versatility. While the fig jam version is a classic for a reason, don’t hesitate to experiment with these creative substitutions and variations to tailor the appetizer to your taste or the occasion:

• Nuts: For added crunch and a nutty depth, sprinkle chopped walnuts, pistachios, or pecans on top of the fig jam before folding the pastry. They toast beautifully in the oven, enhancing their flavor.
• Fresh Herbs: Elevate the aromatic profile with fresh herbs. Delicate rosemary or thyme leaves pulled from their sprigs and sprinkled over the brie or jam add a fragrant, sophisticated touch to each bite.
• Cured Meat: While prosciutto is a wonderful pairing, consider other cured meats. Crispy bacon pieces, crumbled and scattered over the jam, would introduce a smoky, salty dimension that is truly a crowd-pleaser.
• Dried Fruit: If fresh figs aren’t in season or you prefer a different kind of sweetness, dried figs (rehydrated slightly if very firm) or dried cranberries offer a chewy texture and concentrated fruity flavor.
• Different Jams & Preserves: Don’t limit yourself to fig! Cherry preserves or apricot jam are fantastic alternatives, offering a brighter, tangier counterpoint to the creamy brie. Other fruit preserves like raspberry or peach could also create delightful pairings.
• Caramelized Onions: For a more savory and gourmet twist, add a layer of slow-cooked caramelized onions on top of the fig jam (or as a standalone topping) before enclosing the brie in pastry. Their sweet and savory depth pairs exceptionally well with the cheese.
• Spicy Kick: A pinch of red pepper flakes or a thin layer of jalapeño jelly can introduce an unexpected and exciting spicy element.
• Sweet Enhancements: Before baking, a sprinkle of brown sugar or a drizzle of maple syrup over the jam can intensify the sweetness and create a lovely caramelized crust.

Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Your Baked Brie with Fig Jam

Creating this elegant appetizer is surprisingly straightforward. Follow these steps for a perfectly baked brie with a golden, flaky crust and a sumptuously gooey center.

Chef’s Secret! To truly elevate the flavor profile of your fig jam, stir in 1-2 tablespoons of a dry red wine (like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon) before spreading it over the brie. This adds a sophisticated depth and complexity that will impress your guests.

Step One: Prepare the Pastry. Begin by preheating your oven to 400℉ (205℃). Gently unroll your thawed puff pastry sheet onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it out slightly, aiming for about ⅛-inch thick, while trying to maintain a mostly square shape. Carefully transfer the pastry into a cast iron skillet or a baking dish lined with parchment paper. If you plan to transfer the baked brie to a separate serving platter later, parchment paper is highly recommended for easy lifting.

Step Two: Prep the Brie. Place the wheel of brie cheese directly in the center of the prepared puff pastry. Using a small, sharp knife (a butter knife works well), carefully make several small slits or holes halfway through the top rind of the brie. Gently turn the knife to widen these holes. This crucial step allows the delicious fig jam to seep into the soft, melting cheese as it bakes, infusing every creamy spoonful with flavor.

Step Three: Add the Jam. Evenly spread your fig jam over the entire top surface of the brie wheel, extending it to the edges. Ensure a generous layer so that its sweet and earthy notes can truly shine through the rich cheese. If using the optional red wine, stir it into the jam now.

Step Four: Enclose the Brie. In a small bowl, whisk one egg with a splash of water to create an egg wash. Lightly brush this egg wash along the inside edges of the puff pastry that extend beyond the brie. Carefully fold the corners and sides of the puff pastry upwards and over the brie, gently pressing the seams together to seal. You can choose to completely enclose the brie or leave a small portion of the fig jam exposed at the top for a more rustic look.

Step Five: Egg Wash & Bake. Once the brie is wrapped, use the remaining egg wash to generously brush the entire exposed surface of the puff pastry. This will give it that beautiful golden sheen and crisp texture. Transfer the skillet or baking sheet to your preheated oven and bake for approximately 25 minutes, or until the puff pastry is deeply golden brown and puffed, and the cheese inside is molten and gooey.

Step Six: Garnish & Serve. Once baked, carefully remove the brie from the oven. For an extra touch of elegance and flavor, arrange additional garnishes around the edges of your serving dish. Top the baked brie directly with a sprinkle of chopped nuts (pistachios or walnuts are great), fresh fig slices, and a final drizzle of honey. A few sprigs of fresh rosemary or thyme will add a beautiful aroma. Cut a wedge of the hot, gooey cheese and flaky pastry, and serve it immediately on a cracker or your preferred dipper for the perfect bite.

Enjoy the delightful experience of cutting into that warm, creamy cheese and flaky pastry. Each scoop on your chosen dipper makes for an exquisite brie bite!

Safety Alert! If serving your baked brie directly from a hot cast iron skillet, remember to tie a kitchen towel or handle protector around the skillet’s handle. This simple step prevents accidental burns and ensures your guests can safely enjoy this delicious appetizer.

Mastering the Art of Serving Baked Brie

Presentation is key when it comes to appetizers, and baked brie offers numerous elegant serving possibilities. While I personally love to both bake and serve this baked brie with fig jam directly in a large cast iron skillet, arranging various dippers and garnishes around it, you have many other fantastic options:

• Cast Iron Skillet: Baking and serving in the same cast iron skillet maintains warmth and offers a rustic, inviting presentation. Just be sure to use a handle protector!
• Pie Plate or Gratin Dish: These round, shallow dishes work perfectly for baking and can be quite attractive for serving.
• Cutting Board or Favorite Cheese Board: If you baked on parchment paper, you can easily slide the entire baked brie onto a beautiful wooden cutting board or a dedicated cheese board. This allows for ample space to artfully arrange dippers and garnishes.
• Cookie Sheet or Baking Pan: While great for baking, these might not be the most aesthetically pleasing for direct serving. In this case, definitely bake on parchment paper so you can transfer the brie.
• Elegant Serving Plate or Shallow Bowl: For a more refined look, transfer the baked brie to your best serving plate or a wide, shallow bowl, then decorate around it.

Regardless of your chosen vessel, baking the brie on a piece of parchment paper is a game-changer. It not only ensures easy clean-up but also allows you to effortlessly transfer the delicate baked brie to your preferred serving dish, where you can then add all your delightful accompaniments.

The Perfect Pairings

Beyond the classic baguette and crackers, consider these additions to your baked brie board:

• Fresh Fruits: Sliced apples, pears, grapes, berries (raspberries, blackberries), and pomegranate seeds add freshness and a touch of sweetness.
• Dried Fruits: Apricots, cranberries, and dates provide chewy texture and concentrated flavor.
• Nuts: Walnuts, pecans, almonds, and pistachios offer a satisfying crunch.
• Honey or Maple Syrup: A small bowl for extra drizzling allows guests to customize their sweetness.
• Cured Meats: Prosciutto, salami, or coppa offer a savory, salty contrast.
• Olives: Briny olives can cut through the richness of the cheese.
• Wine Pairings: A dry sparkling wine, a crisp Chardonnay, a light-bodied Pinot Noir, or a sweet dessert wine like Moscato or Sauternes would beautifully complement the flavors. For the red wine variation in the jam, a bolder red would also work.

Simplified Baked Brie: No Pastry Required!

For those seeking an even quicker preparation, a gluten-free option, or simply a different texture, baked brie without puff pastry is a fantastic alternative. It’s truly as easy as it sounds!
Simply place the wheel of brie cheese directly into your preferred baking vessel (a small cast iron skillet, a ceramic ramekin, or a small baking dish works wonderfully). Spoon your desired amount of fig jam generously over the top of the brie. Then, bake it in a preheated oven at 400℉ (205℃) for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is softened and delightfully gooey. Once baked, remove it from the oven and immediately add your chosen garnishes and arrange dippers around it.

Important Note: Because this version lacks the structural support of puff pastry, it is best to plan on serving it directly in the dish you bake it in. Attempting to transfer it will likely result in a messy but still delicious outcome!

Smart Clean-up Tip! Baking brie (with or without pastry) on parchment paper is a simple trick that ensures effortless clean-up, preventing any melted cheese from sticking to your bakeware.

Frequently Asked Questions About Baked Brie

Here are answers to some common questions about preparing and enjoying this delectable appetizer:

Storage and Reheating Tips for Baked Brie

While this baked brie with fig jam is undeniably at its best when enjoyed hot and fresh from the oven, you can store any leftovers. For optimal freshness, place any remaining baked brie in an airtight container and refrigerate for one to two days. Keep in mind that the puff pastry will lose some of its crispness upon cooling, and the cheese will firm up.

To reheat, you have a couple of options:

• Microwave: For a quick reheat, microwave the brie in 30-second intervals until the cheese is soft and warm throughout. Be careful not to overheat, as this can make the pastry tough.
• Oven: For a slightly better texture, preheat your oven to 400℉ (205℃) and bake the brie for about 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is once again soft and gooey. The pastry may not become as crisp as when freshly baked, but this method is generally superior to microwaving for texture.

It’s important to note that this recipe truly shines when served immediately. Reheating can sometimes cause the cheese to ooze out, especially if it has already been cut, and the pastry might not regain its original flakiness. For this reason, it’s often best to plan to consume the entire baked brie at your gathering for the ultimate fresh experience.

More Irresistible Puff Pastry Appetizers You’ll Love

If you enjoyed the ease and elegance of this baked brie, you’re in for a treat! Puff pastry is a magical ingredient for creating quick, impressive appetizers. Here are a few more recipes that harness its flaky power, perfect for your next gathering:

• Puff Pastry Tomato Tart with Ricotta and Feta Cheese
• Flaky Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry
• Spinach and Feta Pinwheels
• Reuben Hand Pies

📘 Baked Brie with Fig Jam Recipe 📘

Baked Brie with Fig Jam

By Callan Wenner

This baked brie with fig jam is an effortless yet elegant appetizer, ideal for the holiday season or any social gathering. Featuring creamy brie cheese generously coated with sweet fig jam and enveloped in a delicate, flaky puff pastry, it’s a showstopper that requires minimal effort. Enjoy this delectable appetizer with a selection of fresh fruit, crusty baguette slices, and savory prosciutto for an unforgettable spread.

Prep Time: 5 mins

Cook Time: 25 mins

Total Time: 30 mins

Course: Appetizer, Side Dish, Snack

Cuisine: American, French

Servings: 16

Calories: 108 kcal per serving (estimate)

Equipment

• Sheet pan or large cast iron skillet
• Rolling Pin
• Parchment paper (optional, for easy transfer)
• Pastry brush

Ingredients

Main

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed (or homemade rough puff pastry)
• 1 wheel brie cheese (16oz / 450g)
• ½ cup fig jam or preserves (170g)
• 1 egg (for egg wash)

Serving Suggestions & Garnish

• Chopped pistachios (for topping)
• Honey (for topping)
• Fresh figs (for topping)
• Fresh rosemary or thyme (chopped for topping and sprigs for garnish)
• Crackers, bread, apple slices, prosciutto, etc. (for serving)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400℉ (205℃).
2. Gently roll out the thawed puff pastry to about ⅛” thick, maintaining a mostly square shape.
3. Place the puff pastry into a cast iron skillet or onto a sheet pan (line with parchment paper if you intend to transfer the brie to another serving dish). Position the wheel of brie in the center of the pastry.
4. Using a butter knife, poke several holes halfway down into the top rind of the brie. Turn the knife slightly to create small openings. This allows the fig jam to meld beautifully with the melting cheese.
5. Spread the fig jam evenly over the top of the brie wheel, extending to the edges. In a small bowl, beat the egg with a splash of water to make an egg wash, then brush it along the inside edges of the puff pastry.
6. Carefully fold the pastry upwards and over the brie, pressing the seams gently to seal. You can leave a portion of the fig jam exposed at the top for a more rustic presentation.
7. Brush the remaining egg wash generously over the entire exposed surface of the pastry. Bake for 25 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and beautifully puffed.
8. Once baked, remove from the oven. Garnish the top with sliced fresh figs, chopped pistachios, chopped rosemary or thyme, and a drizzle of honey. Arrange additional dippers like prosciutto, crackers, toasted baguette pieces, and apple slices around the brie. Serve immediately for the best experience.

Notes

Flavor Boost: For an extra layer of sophistication, stir 1-2 tablespoons of a dry red wine (such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon) into the fig jam before spreading it on the brie.

Serving Suggestions: Enhance your spread with toasted baguette slices, crisp apple slices, a variety of gourmet crackers, and savory slices of prosciutto.

Additional Toppings & Mix-ins: Experiment with chopped walnuts, pecans, dried cranberries, crispy bacon pieces, or other dried figs for more texture and flavor.

Storage & Reheating: This appetizer is most delicious when hot and fresh. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 1-2 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave in 30-second bursts, or in a 400℉ (205℃) oven for a few minutes until the cheese is soft. Be aware that the cheese may ooze once reheated, especially if already cut, which is why it’s ideal to enjoy it fresh at your gathering.