Baked Brie with Garlic Herbs is a delightful dish that never fails to impress at gatherings. Imagine a creamy, gooey wheel of Brie cheese, perfectly baked until it’s warm and inviting, infused with the aromatic flavors of garlic and fresh herbs. This recipe not only tantalizes the taste buds but also brings a touch of elegance to any occasion. Historically, Brie cheese hails from France, where it has been cherished for centuries, making it a staple in both casual and formal dining settings.

People love Baked Brie with Garlic Herbs for its incredible taste and texture; the contrast between the crispy exterior and the luscious, melted interior is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient to prepare, allowing you to whip up a gourmet appetizer in no time. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Join me as we explore the simple steps to create this mouthwatering Baked Brie with Garlic Herbs that will leave your guests raving!

Ingredients:

1 large wheel of Brie cheese (about 8 ounces)
2 tablespoons olive oil
2-3 cloves of garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon sea salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon honey (optional)
1 sheet of puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
1 egg (for egg wash)
Crackers or sliced baguette, for serving

Preparing the Cheese

First things first, let’s get our Brie ready. I love using a large wheel of Brie because it melts beautifully and has that creamy texture we all adore.

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is the perfect temperature for baking the Brie to achieve that gooey goodness.
While the oven is heating up, take the Brie out of its packaging and place it on a cutting board. If you prefer a slightly firmer texture, you can leave the rind on, but I like to cut off the top rind to allow the flavors to seep in better. Use a sharp knife to carefully slice off the top layer of the rind.

Infusing the Garlic and Herbs

Now, let’s infuse our Brie with some delicious garlic and herbs. This step is where the magic happens!

In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, parsley, sea salt, and black pepper. This mixture will add a wonderful aroma and flavor to our Brie.
Drizzle the olive oil over the herb and garlic mixture, and stir it well to combine. The oil will help to distribute the flavors evenly.
Spread the garlic and herb mixture evenly over the top of the Brie. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also sprinkle some of the mixture around the sides of the cheese.
If you like a touch of sweetness, drizzle a tablespoon of honey over the top of the garlic and herb mixture. This will create a lovely contrast with the savory flavors.

Preparing the Puff Pastry

Next up, we’re going to wrap our Brie in puff pastry. This step adds a delightful crunch and makes for a beautiful presentation.

Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. If you’re using store-bought puff pastry, it usually comes in a square or rectangular shape. You want to make sure it’s large enough to completely encase the Brie.
Place the Brie in the center of the puff pastry. Make sure to leave enough pastry around the edges to fold over the cheese.
Carefully fold the edges of the puff pastry over the Brie, making sure to seal it well. You can pinch the seams together to ensure no cheese leaks out during baking.
Once the Brie is fully wrapped, flip it over so the seam side is down. This will help keep the pastry intact while baking.

Egg Wash and Baking

Now, let’s give our wrapped Brie a beautiful golden color by applying an egg wash.

In a small bowl, beat the egg with a fork until it’s well combined. This will be our egg wash.
Using a pastry brush, gently brush the egg wash over the top and sides of the puff pastry. This will give it that lovely golden hue when it bakes.
For an extra touch, you can sprinkle some additional herbs on top of the egg wash for decoration.
Place the wrapped Brie on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This will prevent any sticking and make for easy cleanup.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed up. Keep an eye on it towards the end to ensure it doesn’t over-brown.

Assembling and Serving

Once the Brie is out of the oven, it’s

Conclusion:

In summary, this Baked Brie with Garlic Herbs recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to impress their guests or simply indulge in a deliciously creamy treat. The combination of rich, melty brie cheese infused with aromatic garlic and fresh herbs creates a flavor profile that is both sophisticated and comforting. Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering or enjoying a quiet night in, this dish is sure to elevate your culinary experience. For serving suggestions, I love pairing this baked brie with a variety of accompaniments. Fresh baguette slices, crunchy crackers, or even apple and pear slices make for delightful pairings that complement the cheese beautifully. You can also experiment with different herbs or add a drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze for an extra touch of sweetness and depth. The possibilities are endless, and I encourage you to get creative with your own variations! I genuinely hope you give this Baked Brie with Garlic Herbs a try. It’s a simple yet impressive dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, any tweaks you made, or even a photo of your creation. Let’s spread the joy of this delicious recipe together!