Who can resist the allure of melted cheese? Baked Brie with honey and garlic is a simple yet elegant dish that’s sure to impress your guests. The creamy Brie pairs beautifully with the sweet and savory notes of honey and garlic, creating a symphony of flavors that are perfect for any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a festive holiday party or a casual get-together, this delightful appetizer will have everyone coming back for more.
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the brie on a cutting board and use a paring knife to make several slits in it, inserting thin garlic slices into each slit. For enhanced flavor, you can prepare this step a day in advance and let the brie sit at room temperature for 30-45 minutes before baking.
- Position the brie on parchment paper within a baking dish slightly larger than the brie. Mince the remaining garlic and combine it with thyme, olive oil, butter, honey, and cayenne in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in the microwave for 20-40 seconds until the butter melts, then stir the mixture and pour it over the brie.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the oven for 15-18 minutes for an 8-ounce brie or 20-25 minutes for a 16-ounce brie. Check with a butter knife to see if the brie has melted; if not, return it to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes. Once done, serve immediately with crackers and fresh fruit.
Ingredients
- 1 wheel of brie (8-16 ounces)
- 2-4 cloves of fresh garlic
- ½ teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1-2 tablespoons honey
- Dash of cayenne pepper
- Prepared crostini for serving
FAQ
- What is Brie cheese and how is it best served?
- Brie is a mild cheese that pairs well with both sweet and savory toppings. It is ideally served at room temperature or melted, making it a versatile option for any occasion.
- What ingredients are needed for herb garlic baked Brie?
- You’ll need a wheel of Brie, fresh garlic, fresh thyme leaves, olive oil, butter, honey, and a dash of cayenne.
- How do I determine the amount of Brie needed for a party?
- If Brie is the only appetizer, plan for about 8 ounces for every 5-6 guests. When serving multiple appetizers, an 8-ounce wheel can suffice for 8-9 servings.
- What are some tips for making the best garlic baked Brie?
- Ensure the Brie is at room temperature before baking to promote even melting. Consider triple-cream Brie for a richer taste, and always score the rind to help with melting. Avoid over-baking as it can cause the cheese to become hard and less appetizing.
- How can I prepare the garlic baked Brie in advance?
- You can prep the Brie by inserting garlic slivers a day prior to enhance its flavor. Just keep it refrigerated until ready to bake.
- What should I serve with garlic baked Brie?
- Garlic baked Brie pairs wonderfully with crackers or crostini, making it a delightful addition to any cheese board.
Tips
- Consider Brie Thickness: When purchasing a wheel of brie, take note of its thickness. A thicker wheel will require additional baking time to melt properly.
- Choose Triple-Cream Brie: For the creamiest result, opt for a triple-cream brie. It’s known for its superior melting properties and can often be found at good prices at wholesale stores like Costco.
- Room Temperature Prep: Allow the brie to sit at room temperature for 30-45 minutes before baking. This helps ensure even melting and prevents the cheese from needing extended time in the oven, which could lead to overcooking.
- Avoid Overcooking: Be cautious not to overbake the brie. Once overcooked, the cheese can harden and lose its appealing texture. Keep a close eye on it and test for doneness with a gentle press of a butter knife.