Apple Brie is a yummy treat that pairs sweet apples with creamy brie cheese. It’s super easy to make and perfect for sharing at gatherings or cozy nights in!
Just slice the apples, add some melted brie on top, and you have a simple crowd-pleaser. Trust me, it’s a delight that makes everyone smile! 🍏🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Brie Cheese: This creamy cheese is key to the dish. If you can’t find brie, camembert is a great alternative as it has a similar texture and flavor. For a lighter option, use goat cheese, which will give a different taste but is still delicious.
Apples: I love using Gala or Pink Lady apples because they are sweet and hold their shape well. You can substitute with Granny Smith for a tart contrast, or even pears if you want to switch it up.
Fresh Thyme: Fresh thyme adds an earthy flavor that complements the cheese and apples. Dried thyme can be used in a pinch—just use about one-third of the amount since it’s more concentrated.
Honey: This adds sweetness and balances the flavors. Maple syrup is a great substitute if you want a different sweet flavor, or you can leave it out for a more savory take.
How Do I Keep the Brie from Melting Too Much?
Getting the perfect gooey brie can be tricky! Here are some tips to keep it just right:
- Use a wheel of brie rather than pre-sliced, as it retains its shape better when baked.
- Keep an eye on the bake time—around 10-15 minutes is usually perfect. Remove it when it’s soft but still holds its form.
- If you know your oven runs hot, consider lowering the temperature slightly to prevent it from collapsing too quickly.
These simple tweaks will ensure you have the ideal melty brie every time!
Baked Apple Brie with Thyme and Honey
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 wheel (8 oz) brie cheese
- 1 small apple (such as Gala or Pink Lady), thinly sliced
- 1-2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves, plus extra sprigs for garnish
- 1-2 tablespoons honey
- Optional: sliced baguette or crostini for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This baked apple brie recipe takes about 5 minutes to prep and 10-15 minutes to cook, so you’ll be enjoying this tasty treat in around 20 minutes total! Perfect for a quick appetizer or snack.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it’s ready to go when you’re done prepping your delicious dish!
2. Set Up the Brie:
Take out your wheel of brie and place it on a baking dish or an ovenproof skillet. This is where the magic happens, so choose a dish that fits your wheel snugly.
3. Add the Apple Slices:
Now it’s time to make it look pretty! Arrange the thin apple slices on top of the brie in a lovely fanned-out pattern. This not only looks nice but also ensures every bite has some apple goodness.
4. Sprinkle with Thyme:
Next, sprinkle fresh thyme leaves over both the apple slices and the brie. The thyme adds a fragrant, herby flavor that pairs beautifully with the cheese and apples!
5. Drizzle on the Honey:
Drizzle honey generously over the top. This adds a lovely sweetness that will be so delicious once it’s melted!
6. Time to Bake:
Pop your dish into the oven and bake for about 10-15 minutes. Keep an eye on it! You want the brie to be melted and gooey but not completely collapsed, and the apples should be slightly softened.
7. Cool and Garnish:
When it’s done, carefully take it out of the oven and let it cool for just a couple of minutes. If you like, add some extra thyme sprigs on top for a lovely presentation!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the baked apple brie warm with slices of baguette or crostini for dipping. Everyone will love this elegant and delicious snack!
Enjoy your creamy, gooey baked apple brie as a delightful appetizer or special treat! 🧀🍏✨
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While brie is traditional for this dish, you can also use camembert, which has a similar texture and flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, goat cheese works well too, though it will change the flavor profile.
What Apples Work Best for This Recipe?
Gala and Pink Lady apples are excellent choices due to their sweetness and texture. However, you can substitute with Granny Smith for a tart contrast, or even pears for a different twist!
Can I Prep This in Advance?
You can slice the apples and prepare the brie in advance! Assemble it just before baking to keep everything fresh. If you’re using a garnishing herb, add that right before baking, so it remains vibrant and flavorful.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, let the baked brie cool down, then cover it with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It should be good in the fridge for about 2-3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the oven until it’s heated through, as the microwave may make it too runny.
