This Baked Stuffed Brie is a warm and cheesy delight! It’s filled with sweet cranberries and crunchy walnuts, creating a perfect mix of flavors and textures. Yum!
Let’s be real, who can resist warm, gooey cheese? I love serving this with some crispy baguette slices. It’s the ultimate treat for gatherings and makes everyone happy! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Brie Cheese: This creamy cheese is the star of the dish. If you can’t find Brie, you can use Camembert or even a triple-cream cheese. Both options will maintain that lovely, melting quality.
Puff Pastry: Puff pastry brings a flaky texture to the dish. If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought pastry. Alternatively, crescent roll dough works in a pinch for a different flavor.
Dried Cranberries: These add a sweet and tart flavor. You can substitute with dried cherries or raisins if you prefer. Fresh cranberries can also be used, but you’ll want to sweeten them first.
Walnuts: They add crunch to the filling. If you have nut allergies, consider using sunflower seeds or omit them altogether. Pecans are a tasty alternative too!
Shallot: For a mild onion flavor, shallots are perfect. If you don’t have them, finely chopped onions or leeks can be used, but use less as their flavor is stronger.
How Do I Get the Puff Pastry to Cook Evenly?
Getting that pastry perfectly golden can be tricky, but here are a few simple steps:
- Make sure your puff pastry is thawed and cold before using. This ensures it puffs up nicely in the oven.
- Don’t skip the egg wash! This gives your pastry that nice, shiny finish. Brush it on just before baking.
- Place the wrapped Brie on a parchment-lined baking sheet for easy cleanup and even cooking. This prevents sticking and promotes browning.
- Keep an eye on it while baking! If parts are browning too fast, you can cover those areas with small pieces of tin foil.
- Let it sit for a few minutes after baking; this helps set the gooey cheese inside!
With these tips, you’ll achieve a perfectly baked puff pastry every time! Enjoy your dish!
Baked Stuffed Brie with Cranberries and Walnuts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 wheel of Brie cheese (8 oz)
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries
- 1/3 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1 small shallot, finely chopped
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 tsp dried thyme)
For the Puff Pastry:
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
For Serving:
- Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish (optional)
- Additional whole walnuts for topping and serving
- Crackers, baguette slices, or apple slices for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious Baked Stuffed Brie takes about 15 minutes to prep and another 20-25 minutes to bake, making it a perfect appetizer for any occasion. Don’t forget to let it rest for 5 minutes after baking before serving!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure your puff pastry bakes up golden and flaky.
2. Sauté the Filling:
In a small skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped shallot and sauté until they become translucent and slightly golden, about 3-4 minutes. It will smell delicious!
3. Mix in the Flavor:
Add the dried cranberries, chopped walnuts, and thyme into the skillet. Stir everything together for about 1-2 minutes to let the flavors mingle, then remove from heat and set aside.
4. Prepare the Puff Pastry:
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry. Place the Brie wheel right in the center of the pastry. If you’d like, use a knife to carefully cut off the top rind of the Brie to help it melt better.
5. Stuff the Brie:
Spoon the warm filling of cranberries, walnuts, and shallots over the Brie, making sure to cover it well.
6. Wrap It Up:
Fold the puff pastry up and around the Brie, pinching and sealing the edges securely to wrap the cheese completely.
7. Egg Wash for Shine:
Use the beaten egg to brush the outside of the pastry. This will give it a beautiful golden color once baked.
8. Bake and Enjoy:
Transfer your wrapped Brie to a parchment-lined baking sheet. If you like, sprinkle some additional chopped walnuts on top for an extra crunch. Bake it in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the pastry is golden brown and puffed.
9. Final Touches:
Once baked, carefully remove the Brie from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes to set. Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs and sprinkle with whole walnuts for presentation.
10. Serve and Savor:
Serve your warm Baked Stuffed Brie with baguette slices, crackers, or fresh apple slices to dip into the gooey, flavorful cheese. Enjoy this delightful treat!
Dig in and enjoy the amazing blend of creamy Brie, sweet cranberries, and crunchy walnuts in flaky pastry! It’s sure to be a hit at any gathering!
Can I Use Fresh Cranberries Instead of Dried Ones?
Yes, you can use fresh cranberries, but you’ll need to sweeten them first, as they can be quite tart. Consider simmering them with a bit of sugar and water until they burst, then let them cool before adding to the filling.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Baked Stuffed Brie in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through—this will help keep the pastry crispy.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the Brie wrapped in puff pastry and filling a few hours ahead of time, then refrigerate it. Just make sure to take it out about 30 minutes before baking to allow it to come to room temperature. Bake as directed when ready to serve!
What’s a Good Alternative to Puff Pastry?
If you’re looking for a lighter alternative or want to save on prep time, try using crescent roll dough. It will give a different flavor but will still result in a deliciously baked cheese. Just remember to roll it out a bit to ensure it fully wraps the Brie!
