Golden Baked Brie with Caramelized Apples and Thyme Recipe

Introduction

This Golden Baked Brie with Caramelized Apples and Thyme is a perfect appetizer for any gathering. The combination of sweet, tender apples and creamy brie wrapped in flaky puff pastry creates an irresistible treat that’s simple to make yet impressive to serve.

A rustic tart with three visible layers sits on crumpled parchment over a round wooden board. The bottom layer is a golden, flaky puff pastry crust with thick, crisp edges folded inward all around. On top of the crust is a melted creamy layer of cheese that oozes slightly where a wedge has been cut out. Arranged neatly above the cheese, thin slices of caramelized apples form an overlapping circular pattern, showing shades of warm yellow and brown with a shiny glaze. Small green sprigs of thyme and black pepper flakes are scattered over the apples, adding extra texture and color. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

  • 2 Honeycrisp apples, thinly sliced
  • 3 tablespoons salted butter
  • 3 tablespoons maple syrup
  • 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
  • 1 wheel of brie (8–12 oz)
  • 2 tablespoons apple butter or fig preserves
  • 1 egg, beaten (for brushing)
  • Coarse sugar (for sprinkling)
  • Fresh thyme, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Step 2: Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add apple slices and sauté for 3–4 minutes.
  3. Step 3: Stir in maple syrup and cook another 5–6 minutes until apples are caramelized and tender. Set aside to cool.
  4. Step 4: Roll out thawed puff pastry on a floured surface. Place the brie in the center.
  5. Step 5: Spread apple butter or fig preserves over the top of the brie.
  6. Step 6: Spoon the cooled apples on top. Wrap the pastry up over the brie, pressing to seal it well.
  7. Step 7: Place the wrapped brie seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Brush with beaten egg and sprinkle coarse sugar over the top.
  8. Step 8: Bake for 20–25 minutes until puff pastry is deep golden brown. Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.
  9. Step 9: Garnish with fresh thyme and serve warm with crackers or fruit slices.

Tips & Variations

  • Use other apple varieties like Fuji or Gala if Honeycrisp is unavailable, but keep to firmer apples for better texture.
  • For a nutty crunch, add chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the caramelized apples before wrapping.
  • Try spreading a thin layer of Dijon mustard inside the pastry for a subtle tangy contrast.
  • If you prefer a vegan option, substitute the brie with a plant-based cheese and use coconut oil instead of butter.

Storage

Store any leftover baked brie wrapped tightly in plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes until heated through and pastry is crisp again. Avoid microwaving to keep the pastry flaky.

How to Serve

A golden-brown puff pastry tart with a raised, crispy edge forms the base. Inside, thin, overlapping slices of caramelized apples are arranged in a circular pattern, their edges browned and glossy with a shiny glaze. Small green sprigs of thyme are scattered on top, adding a fresh contrast to the warm colors. In the center, creamy melted cheese oozes out slightly onto the pastry. The tart rests on crinkled parchment paper over a wooden board. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the wrapped brie a few hours before baking. Keep it refrigerated and bake just before serving for the best results.

What can I serve with baked brie?

Baked brie pairs wonderfully with crackers, crusty bread, fresh fruit slices like pears or grapes, and a light green salad for a complete appetizer.

Print
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Golden Baked Brie with Caramelized Apples and Thyme Recipe


  • Author: Simon
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A delectable Golden Baked Brie wrapped in flaky puff pastry, topped with luscious caramelized Honeycrisp apples and fresh thyme. This elegant appetizer combines creamy brie with the sweet richness of maple syrup and apple butter, perfect for entertaining or cozy gatherings.


Ingredients

Scale

Apples & Caramelizing

  • 2 Honeycrisp apples, thinly sliced
  • 3 tablespoons salted butter
  • 3 tablespoons maple syrup

Main Ingredients

  • 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
  • 1 wheel of brie (812 oz)
  • 2 tablespoons apple butter or fig preserves
  • 1 egg, beaten (for brushing)
  • Coarse sugar (for sprinkling)
  • Fresh thyme, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
  2. Caramelize Apples: In a skillet over medium heat, melt the salted butter. Add the thinly sliced apples and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally to coat the slices well in butter.
  3. Add Maple Syrup: Stir in the maple syrup with the apples and continue cooking for another 5 to 6 minutes until the apples become caramelized and tender. Remove from heat and let them cool.
  4. Prepare Puff Pastry: On a floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet. Place the wheel of brie in the center of the pastry.
  5. Spread Apple Butter: Evenly spread 2 tablespoons of apple butter or fig preserves over the top surface of the brie, adding a layer of sweetness that complements the cheese and apples.
  6. Add Caramelized Apples: Spoon the cooled caramelized apples over the apple butter layer on the brie, distributing them evenly.
  7. Wrap Brie with Pastry: Carefully fold the puff pastry up and over the brie, pressing the edges to seal the wheel completely, ensuring no gaps once baked.
  8. Brush and Sugar: Place the wrapped brie seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the entire surface with the beaten egg to allow it to brown beautifully. Sprinkle coarse sugar on top for a sweet, crunchy finish.
  9. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes until the puff pastry turns a deep golden brown color. Once done, remove from oven and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes.
  10. Garnish and Serve: Garnish the baked brie with fresh thyme leaves. Serve warm alongside crackers or slices of fresh fruit for a delicious appetizer.

Notes

  • Ensure puff pastry is properly thawed before rolling to avoid cracking.
  • Use Honeycrisp apples for their sweetness and firm texture; other sweet, crisp apples can work as well.
  • Let the baked brie rest before serving so the cheese slightly firms up, making it easier to cut.
  • For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the apples during caramelization.
  • Substitute apple butter with fig preserves or any other jam for a different flavor twist.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: baked brie, caramelized apples, puff pastry, appetizer, cheese, maple syrup, honeycrisp apples, party recipes, thyme

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