Brie

Why Make This Brie

Brie is more than just cheese; it’s a culinary hug that brings warmth and comfort to any gathering. Whether enjoyed on a rustic cheese board, melted on a crusty baguette, or baked with a drizzle of honey, Brie has a rich, creamy texture and buttery flavor that makes it irresistible. This cheese is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to tailor it to any occasion, from simple snacks to festive feasts.

How to Make Brie

Making Brie at home can sound like a daunting task, but it’s actually a rewarding process that pays off in flavor. The good news is that great Brie can also be bought from artisanal cheesemakers. In this guide, we’ll start with the ingredients you’ll need to make your Brie shine, followed by easy-to-follow directions.

Ingredients:

• 1 round of Brie cheese (8 ounces)
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary or thyme, chopped (optional)
• Assorted crackers or slices of bread for serving

Directions:

1. Prep the Cheese: Take the Brie cheese out of the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This helps enhance its flavor and makes it easier to slice or spread.

2. Bake the Brie: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the Brie on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

3. Add Toppings: Drizzle the honey over the top of the cheese. If you’re using herbs, sprinkle them on top for added flavor.

4. Bake: Put the cheese in the oven and bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until it’s soft and gooey in the center.

5. Serve Warm: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with crackers or crusty bread for dipping.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (based on a 1-ounce serving of Brie):

• Calories: 95
• Total Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 30mg
• Sodium: 190mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 0.1g
  • Dietary Fiber: 0g
  • Sugars: 0g
• Protein: 6g

Brie is a rich source of calcium and can fit well into a variety of diets when enjoyed in moderation.

How to Serve Brie

Brie is wonderfully versatile! Here are a few serving suggestions:

• Cheese Board: Add slices of Brie to a cheese platter alongside fruits like grapes and apples, nuts, and various crackers.
• With Jam: Pair it with fig or apricot jam for a sweet and savory combination.
• In Sandwiches: Melt it on toasted sandwiches or paninis for a gourmet touch.
• With Wine: Serve alongside a glass of Chardonnay or Cabernet Sauvignon to elevate your cheese experience.

How to Store Brie

To keep your Brie fresh, wrap it tightly in wax paper or parchment paper, then place it in a plastic bag or airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator, where it can last for about one week. Avoid tightly wrapping Brie in plastic wrap, as it can trap moisture and affect its texture.

Expert Tips for Perfect Brie

• Temperature Matters: Always let Brie come to room temperature before serving. This enhances its flavor and makes it creamy and spreadable.
• Pair Wisely: Experiment with different toppings and pairings. Baked Brie with cranberry sauce, nuts, or caramelized onions can add delightful flavors.
• Check for Ripeness: A good Brie should have a creamy texture and a strong aroma. If it feels very soft and starts to leak, it is overripe.

Delicious Variations

• Baked Brie with Cranberries: Replace honey with cranberry sauce and top with pecans for a festive twist.
• Herbed Brie: Mix in fresh basil or oregano and bake topped with sun-dried tomatoes for an Italian flair.
• Spicy Brie: Drizzle sriracha or chili oil over baked Brie for a kick.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I eat the rind of Brie?

Yes! The rind of Brie is edible and adds flavor to the cheese. If you don’t like it, feel free to slice it off, but many enjoy the combination of the creamy interior with the earthy rind.

2. How do I know if my Brie is bad?

Check for any off-putting smells or changes in texture. If the Brie feels excessively slimy or has mold that’s not typical for Brie (which should have a white, bloomy rind), it’s best to throw it out.

3. Can I freeze Brie?

While you can freeze Brie, it may alter its texture, making it more crumbly rather than creamy after thawing. If you do freeze it, wrap it well and consume within three months.

Conclusion

Brie is a delightful addition to any meal or gathering, offering rich flavors and a luxurious texture. Whether you choose to bake it with honey or serve it on a cheese board, Brie is sure to impress. We encourage you to give this recipe a try and explore the variations and serving suggestions. Happy cheese crafting! If you enjoyed this, feel free to share your experiences or questions in the comments below!

Baked Brie with Honey

A warm, gooey baked Brie topped with honey and optional herbs, perfect for serving with crackers or bread.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Appetizer, Snack

Cuisine: French

Calories: 95

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 round 8 ounces Brie cheese
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary or thyme, chopped (optional) Can be replaced with other herbs if desired.
• Assorted crackers or slices of bread For serving.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Take the Brie cheese out of the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes.

Baking

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Place the Brie on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle the honey over the top of the cheese and sprinkle with optional herbs.
4. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is soft and gooey in the center.
5. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.

Notes

To keep your Brie fresh, wrap it tightly in wax or parchment paper and store in the refrigerator for up to one week. Avoid using plastic wrap as it can trap moisture and affect texture.