Baked Brie with Caramelized Onions is a warm, gooey treat that’s perfect for sharing. The creamy cheese melts beautifully, while the sweet, soft onions add a tasty twist!
This dish is a crowd-pleaser at parties! I love to scoop it up with some crunchy crackers or warm bread. Trust me, you won’t have leftovers—everyone will be coming back for more! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Brie Cheese: Brie brings that creamy, rich texture. If you’re looking for alternatives, Camembert works well too. For a lighter option, try goat cheese, though the flavor will differ.
Onions: Yellow onions are best for caramelizing because of their natural sweetness. If you’re in a hurry, sweet onions or shallots can be used as faster alternatives.
Balsamic Vinegar: This adds a nice tang to the onions. If balsamic isn’t available, red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar could be good substitutes, but the flavor will be slightly different.
Bread or Crackers: I love to pair this with some crusty baguette. If gluten-free is a concern, look for gluten-free crackers or rice cakes. You can also use fruit slices like apples or pears!
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Caramelized Onions?
Caramelizing onions can take some patience, but it’s all about low, slow cooking! Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with medium heat and don’t rush. This helps release their natural sugars.
- Stir occasionally—this ensures even cooking. I usually do this every 5-6 minutes.
- If they begin to stick to the pan, don’t panic! Just splash in a bit of water to loosen them up.
- Sweeten with brown sugar and balance with balsamic vinegar. This boosts flavor at the end!
With these tips, your onions will turn out beautifully caramelized—sweet, soft, and packed with flavor!
Baked Brie With Caramelized Onions
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 wheel (8 oz) of Brie cheese
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh thyme sprigs, for garnish
- Assorted bread slices or crackers, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious treat will take about 35-40 minutes total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing and 25-30 minutes to caramelize the onions. There’s also about 10-15 minutes for baking. So, in no time, you’ll have an elegant appetizer ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, it’ll be just right for baking the Brie when you’re ready!
2. Caramelize the Onions:
In a large skillet, combine the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add your sliced onions and stir them well to get them coated. This is where the magic begins! Cook them slowly, stirring occasionally, for about 25-30 minutes. You want them to become tender and turn a lovely golden brown color. If they start to stick to the pan or look dry, just add a splash of water to keep them cooking nicely.
3. Sweeten and Season:
Once the onions are beautifully caramelized, mix in the brown sugar and balsamic vinegar. This will add a sweet-tangy flavor that complements the Brie perfectly. Cook for another 2-3 minutes and then season with salt and pepper to taste. Once done, remove it from the heat.
4. Prepare the Brie:
Place the Brie wheel on a parchment paper-lined baking tray or in an oven-safe dish. Now, it’s time to drizzle on those delicious caramelized onions! Spoon them generously over the Brie, making sure it’s well covered.
5. Bake Until Oozing:
Pop the tray into your preheated oven and bake for about 10-15 minutes. You want the Brie to get soft and start to ooze but not completely melt away.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s out of the oven, carefully transfer it to a serving board. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh thyme sprigs for a bit of color and flavor! Serve it warm with slices of toasted bread or your favorite crackers for dipping, and watch it disappear!
Enjoy this deliciously creamy and savory treat perfect for entertaining or a cozy snack!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While Brie is traditional, Camembert is a fantastic alternative with a similar texture and flavor. If you’re after a slightly different taste, try using goat cheese, which offers a tangy twist.
How Can I Prepare the Onions in Advance?
You can caramelize the onions a day ahead! Just store them in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, just reheat them gently before assembling with the Brie.
Can I Freeze Leftover Baked Brie?
While it’s best fresh, you can freeze leftover baked Brie after it’s cooled; just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat briefly in the oven on low heat until warmed through.
What Should I Serve with Baked Brie?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of items! Serve it with crusty bread, crackers, or even sliced fruits like apples or pears for a delightful balance of flavors. You can also include a selection of nuts for added crunch!
