This Fig Walnut Baked Brie is an easy and fancy treat! Creamy brie cheese gets topped with sweet figs and crunchy walnuts, then baked until warm and gooey.
If you can resist eating it straight from the oven, it tastes amazing with crackers or baguette slices. Trust me, it’s hard to stop after one bite! 😋
I love how quick it is to make. Just pop it in the oven, and you have a wonderful appetizer ready for any gathering or simply just for me at home! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Brie Cheese: The star of this dish! I recommend using an 8 oz wheel of brie for the right amount of creaminess. If you can’t find brie, camembert works well too, with a similar texture and flavor.
Dried Figs: These add sweetness! If figs are hard to find, you can switch them for dried cranberries or apricots. They’ll still give you that delightful touch of sweetness.
Walnuts: They bring in crunchiness. If you’re looking for a nut-free option, consider using sunflower seeds instead. They’ll add a nice texture without the nuts!
Fresh Thyme: This herb adds freshness. If you don’t have thyme, rosemary can be a robust substitute, but use a bit less as it has a stronger flavor.
How Do I Ensure My Brie is Perfectly Baked?
Baking the brie just right is key! You want it gooey but not fully melted. Here’s how to get it perfect:
- Preheat your oven well before placing the brie inside, as this helps it bake evenly.
- Keep an eye on it while baking; around 12-15 minutes should be perfect, but all ovens differ.
- Look for the brie to be soft on the outside, with just a slight give when you touch it. It should not lose its shape entirely.
Once done, let it cool for a minute before serving. Enjoy your warm, cheesy delight with crackers or bread!
Fig Walnut Baked Brie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 wheel (8 oz) brie cheese
- 1/2 cup dried figs, chopped
- 1/2 cup walnuts, roughly chopped
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (plus extra for garnish)
- Baguette slices or crackers, for serving
- Optional: Fresh figs sliced for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5 minutes to prep and then around 12-15 minutes to bake, making the total time about 20 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for when you need a quick and tasty appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is important because it ensures that the brie bakes evenly and melts to the perfect gooey texture.
2. Prepare the Brie:
Carefully place the wheel of brie on a baking sheet or in a small oven-safe dish. This will be the base for your delicious topping.
3. Mix the Topping:
In a small bowl, combine the chopped dried figs, walnuts, honey, and fresh thyme leaves. Stir everything together so that the honey nicely coats the figs and nuts. This mix is what makes the brie taste so wonderful!
4. Assemble the Dish:
Spoon the flavorful fig and walnut mixture evenly over the top of the brie. Make sure to cover it well, as this is where all the tastiness comes from!
5. Bake the Brie:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes. You’re looking for the brie to be soft and just starting to ooze out, but not completely melted. Keep an eye on it as every oven can be a little different.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, remove the brie from the oven and transfer it to a serving board or dish. It’s time to garnish! Add some extra fresh thyme leaves and fresh fig slices on top, if you like. Serve warm with toasted baguette slices or your favorite crackers. Enjoy your delightful creation that’s great for sharing (or not!).
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While brie is traditional, you can also use camembert or even goat cheese for a tangy twist. Just adjust baking time as needed since different cheeses melt differently.
What If I Don’t Have Dried Figs?
No problem! If you can’t find dried figs, dried cranberries or apricots make great substitutes. They’ll add a similar sweetness, though the flavor will be slightly different.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the topping in advance! Combine the figs, walnuts, honey, and thyme, and store it in the fridge. Just add the topping to the brie and bake right before serving.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), store the baked brie in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 10 minutes.
