Baked Brie with Fig Jam, Rosemary, and Pecans
Oh my gosh, let me tell you about this Baked Brie with Fig Jam, Rosemary, and Pecans! This dish holds a special place in my heart (and my stomach). I first made it for a cozy holiday gathering with friends, and it instantly became a star of the night. Picture this: the gooey, melted cheese paired with sweet fig jam, crunchy pecans, and aromatic rosemary, all wrapped in flaky puff pastry. It’s like all my favorite flavors cozying up together for a delicious hug!
What I love most about this recipe is how effortlessly elegant it makes me look. I mean, who wouldn’t be impressed when they see a bubbly, golden round of baked Brie? Whether it’s for a festive occasion or just a rainy day at home, this appetizer never disappoints. Trust me; once you try this, it’ll be on your short list of go-to recipes!
What’s in Baked Brie with Fig Jam, Rosemary, and Pecans?
Brie cheese: The star of the show! I usually pick an 8 oz round to keep it just right for a gathering. It melts beautifully, creating that gooey, indulgent center we all love.
Fig jam: This sweet concoction adds a luscious layer of flavor. You can use store-bought, but if you find homemade, go for it! It really shines in this recipe.
Pecans: Adding a wonderful crunch and nutty flavor, I love to chop them roughly so they distribute evenly, giving every bite a perfect mix of textures.
Fresh rosemary: With its lovely aromatic scent, rosemary elevates this dish and complements the fig beautifully. If you haven’t used fresh herbs before, you’re in for a treat!
Puff pastry: This delightful pastry is what wraps everything together. It’s light, flaky, and creates the perfect barrier to keep all that gooey goodness inside.
Egg wash: A simple beaten egg brushed on top gives the pastry that gorgeous golden color when it bakes.
Salt and pepper: A pinch of salt and a dash of pepper enhance all the flavors.
Optional: Crackers or sliced baguette are perfect accompaniments for your guests to scoop up that melty Brie.
Is Baked Brie with Fig Jam, Rosemary, and Pecans Good for You?
Now, before you dive in, let’s talk a little about the health aspects. Let’s be real; this isn’t a health food in the traditional sense, but it does have its perks!
Brie cheese: It’s a good source of calcium and protein, but also quite rich in fat. So, I’d say moderation is key here—just one slice is enough to satisfy your cravings!
Pecans: Not only do they add crunch, but they are also packed with healthy fats and antioxidants. They’re even thought to be heart-healthy, so feel free to indulge a little!
Fig jam: While it’s sweet, figs are high in fiber and nutrients. Just watch the quantity if you’re keeping an eye on sugar intake.
Puff pastry? Okay, it’s indulgent—let’s not kid ourselves. But life is all about balance, right? Enjoy this as a special treat and savor every bite!
Ingredients
– 1 round Brie cheese (about 8 oz)
– 1/2 cup fig jam
– 1/4 cup pecans, chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: Crackers or sliced baguette for serving
This recipe serves about 6-8 people, making it perfect for parties or a cozy gathering with friends.
How to Make Baked Brie with Fig Jam, Rosemary, and Pecans?
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Get that warmth ready!
2. Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. You want it to be large enough to wrap the whole Brie.
3. Place the round Brie in the center of your puff pastry masterpiece.
4. Spread that luscious fig jam generously over the Brie—don’t be shy!
5. Sprinkle the chopped pecans and fresh rosemary over the fig jam. Go ahead and season with salt and pepper if you like.
6. Fold the puff pastry over the Brie, wrapping it up like a cozy little package. If you have excess pastry, trim it away, ensuring the seam is on the bottom.
7. Brush the top of your pastry package with that beaten egg—golden, here we come!
8. Carefully place the wrapped Brie on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
9. Pop it into your preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. You want it golden brown and puffed—an irresistible sight.
10. When it’s ready, let it cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Patience, my friend, I know it’s hard!
Serving Suggestions and Extra Tips
This dish is great for parties or as an impressive appetizer. You can serve it warm with crackers or sliced baguette, and believe me, it becomes the showstopper.
Feel free to get creative! Swap out fig jam for other jams like apricot or raspberry—whatever tickles your fancy. You can even mix in different nuts such as walnuts or almonds for a fun twist.
Now that you have this delightful recipe in your arsenal, I can’t wait for you to try it! It’s perfect for gatherings, and trust me, people will be raving about it. Please let me know how it goes or any fun variations you discover! Happy baking!
