Description
This Blackberry Thyme Baked Brie En Croute is an elegant, crowd-pleasing appetizer featuring creamy brie cheese wrapped in flaky puff pastry, topped with fresh blackberries, fragrant thyme, and a hint of blackberry jam. Perfectly golden and braided for visual appeal, this baked brie makes a stunning addition to any gathering or holiday spread.
Ingredients
Scale
Puff Pastry
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1 egg + 1 tbsp water (for egg wash)
Cheese and Toppings
- 1/2 pound brie cheese
- 1 cup fresh blackberries
- 2–3 tbsp blackberry jam
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
- 1/8 tsp freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the puff pastry evenly.
- Prepare Puff Pastry: Roll out the thawed puff pastry into a 12×12 inch square on a clean surface. Cut three 1/4-inch wide strips from three sides of the pastry; these will be used later for braiding. Set the strips aside.
- Prepare Brie and Toppings: Gently cut and discard the top rind of the brie to allow the flavors to meld better. Place the brie in the center of the puff pastry square. Arrange fresh blackberries on top of the brie, drizzle with blackberry jam, then sprinkle with fresh thyme leaves and freshly ground black pepper for aromatic layers of flavor.
- Wrap the Brie: Fold the puff pastry over the brie and berries, gently sealing the edges by brushing them with the egg wash (a mixture of egg and water). Then, fold the pastry underneath the brie, ensuring it is completely sealed to prevent any leakage during baking.
- Braid and Finish: Take the three reserved puff pastry strips and braid them together. Place the braid on top of the wrapped brie and brush it with more egg wash to give a beautiful golden finish once baked.
- Bake: Place the wrapped and braided brie onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the puff pastry is puffed and golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes to set. Serve warm with crackers or bread crisps for a delicious and impressive appetizer.
Notes
- Removing the top rind of the brie helps the toppings meld better and enhances flavor.
- Use a sharp knife to cut and braid the puff pastry strips for clean edges.
- Serve within 30 minutes of baking to enjoy the gooey cheese and crisp pastry.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and gently reheated in the oven.
- Substitute blackberry jam with raspberry or fig jam for a different flavor profile.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French-inspired
