Blackberry & Thyme Baked Brie
Creamy Brie Meets Sweet Blackberries and Fragrant Thyme for an Elegant Bite!
Inspired by French cuisine, this Blackberry & Thyme Baked Brie blends rich, creamy cheese with tart blackberries and aromatic thyme. Perfect for entertaining, it’s a beautifully balanced sweet-and-savory appetizer that’s as delicious as it is elegant.
Sweet and Savory Blackberry & Thyme Baked Brie – Easy and Delicious Holiday Appetizer Recipe
DifficultyEasy
Servings8
Prep time10 minutes
Cook time15 minutes
Total time25 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Brie:
- 1 8 oz wheel of Brie cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves, chopped
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1/2 cup fresh blackberries
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Serving:
- Crackers, baguette slices, or sliced fruits (optional)
Instructions:
- 1
Prepare the Brie:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the wheel of Brie on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or in a small baking dish.
- 2
Prepare the Blackberry Topping:
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the blackberries, honey, lemon juice, and olive oil. Stir occasionally and cook for about 5 minutes until the berries begin to break down and release their juice. You want a chunky sauce, so don’t overcook it.
- Stir in the chopped thyme, and cook for another minute. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- 3
Assemble the Baked Brie:
- Pour the warm blackberry-thyme mixture over the Brie, spreading it evenly across the top.
- 4
Bake the Brie:
- Place the Brie in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is soft and melty but still holds its shape.
- 5
Serve:
- Remove from the oven and serve immediately with crackers, sliced baguette, or fruits for dipping.
Equipment
Recipe Notes & Variations:
Substitutions:
- Blackberries: You can substitute blackberries with raspberries or blueberries for a different berry flavor.
- Honey: Maple syrup can replace honey for a different sweetener.
- Thyme: Fresh rosemary or basil can be used instead of thyme for a more earthy or aromatic twist.
Pro Tips:
- Don’t Overbake the Brie: Be sure not to overbake the Brie as it can lose its creamy texture. Bake just until it’s soft and gooey.
- Serve with Variety: Offering a mix of crackers, fresh fruit, and sliced baguette will make this appetizer even more versatile and enjoyable.
- Room Temperature Brie: For easier serving, let the Brie sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before baking, which helps it melt more evenly.
FAQs:
Can I make this ahead of time?
- Yes! You can prepare the blackberry-thyme mixture in advance and refrigerate it. Just warm it up slightly before pouring it over the Brie and baking.
Can I use pre-sliced Brie?
- While it’s best to use a whole wheel of Brie for melting, pre-sliced Brie can be used in a pinch. Just layer it in the baking dish and follow the same instructions.
Storage & Reheating Instructions:
- Storage: Store leftover baked Brie in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes until the Brie is warm and melty again.
Nutrition
| Calories | 150 |
| Carbohydrates | 9g |
| Cholesterol | 20mg |
| Fat | 12g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Protein | 6g |
| Saturated Fat | 7g |
| Sodium | 125mg |
| Sugar | 6g |
| Trans Fat | 0g |
| Unsaturated Fat | 4g |
History, Evolution, and Inspiration
Baked Brie has become a classic appetizer, beloved for its rich and creamy texture combined with a variety of sweet and savory toppings. This version with blackberries and thyme adds a refreshing twist that elevates the traditional recipe. The combination of berries and cheese is a nod to classic French cuisine, where the balance of sweetness and savory flavors is a hallmark. The thyme baked Brie brings out the cheese’s natural creaminess, while the blackberries offer a burst of color and tart sweetness.
The Art of Cooking Parts of the Recipe
The beauty of this recipe lies in the simplicity of the ingredients and the contrast of flavors. The Brie is baked just until it’s soft and gooey, with the blackberry-thyme topping providing a fresh, sweet-and-savory element. The warm honey adds a rich gloss, while the lemon juice balances the sweetness, making every bite burst with flavor.
Interesting Things About the Recipe
This Blackberry & Thyme Baked Brie is perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a holiday appetizer, a party appetizer, or a sweet dessert appetizer, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. It combines the indulgent creaminess of Brie with the unique combination of fresh thyme and blackberries, creating a dish that’s not only visually stunning but also a delight to the taste buds.
Overview of the Parts of the Recipe
- Brie Cheese: The star of the dish, offering a smooth, creamy texture that melts perfectly.
- Blackberries & Thyme Topping: A sweet, savory, and herbal mixture that adds a layer of complexity and a burst of freshness.
- Honey & Lemon: These two ingredients bring balance to the richness of the Brie and the tartness of the berries.
What Occasions It’s Good For
- Holiday Appetizer: This baked Brie is a stunning addition to your holiday table, offering a warm and welcoming dish for guests.
- Party Appetizer: A show-stopping appetizer that’s perfect for any celebration or gathering.
- Easy Dessert Appetizer: A sweet yet savory treat that also works well as a light dessert for those looking to finish their meal on a satisfying note.
Why It’s the Perfect Recipe
The Blackberry & Thyme Baked Brie is the perfect recipe because it offers the best of both worlds: sweet and savory. The blackberries add freshness and a slight tartness, while the thyme complements the creamy Brie perfectly. Easy to make and visually stunning, it’s the perfect choice when you want an elegant yet simple appetizer to wow your guests.
