Description

This Golden Baked Brie with Caramelized Apples and Thyme is a sophisticated yet easy appetizer featuring creamy Brie cheese warmed to perfection and topped with sweet, buttery caramelized apples infused with fresh thyme. The Brie can be baked wrapped in flaky puff pastry or simply baked on its own, making it a versatile dish ideal for entertaining or cozy nights in. Served with crackers or baguette slices, it offers a delightful combination of rich, creamy cheese and sweet, aromatic fruit.

Ingredients

Scale

Cheese and Pastry

1 wheel of Brie cheese
1 sheet puff pastry (optional, if wrapping the Brie)

Caramelized Apples

2 apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp brown sugar
½ tsp fresh thyme leaves

To Serve

Crackers or baguette slices

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the Brie cheese.
Caramelize apples: In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the peeled, cored, and sliced apples along with the brown sugar. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples become soft and caramelized. Stir in the fresh thyme leaves to infuse the apples with their aromatic flavor.
Prepare Brie: If you choose to use puff pastry, wrap the Brie wheel completely with the pastry sheet, sealing the edges carefully. If you prefer not to use puff pastry, place the Brie wheel directly into a small baking dish for baking.
Bake Brie: Place the wrapped or unwrapped Brie into the preheated oven. Bake for 10-15 minutes if unwrapped to allow the cheese to soften and become gooey, or for 20-25 minutes if wrapped in puff pastry until the pastry turns golden brown and crisp.
Serve: Remove the baked Brie from the oven and carefully transfer to a serving platter. Top the warm Brie with the caramelized apples. Serve immediately with crackers or baguette slices for dipping and spreading.

Notes

If using puff pastry, chill it before wrapping the Brie to make handling easier.
Use firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture in caramelizing.
Fresh thyme leaves add a lovely herbal note but can be substituted with rosemary if preferred.
Serve immediately after baking for the best gooey texture of the Brie.
This appetizer pairs wonderfully with a crisp white wine or sparkling cider.