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What’s better than regular brie cheese? Brie wrapped in a buttery, flaky pie crust!
This baked brie in pie crust is like a cozy hug for your taste buds. When you cut into it, warm melted cheese oozes out, making it perfect for spreading on crackers or bread. It’s my go-to appetizer for parties and get-togethers, and I’ve never met anyone who could resist going back for seconds. Trust me – this one disappears fast at any gathering.
Ingredient Substitutions
For those seeking a dairy-free option, the Brie wheel can be replaced with a vegan cheese alternative made from nuts, such as cashew-based cheese. This substitution maintains a creamy texture and rich flavor while accommodating dairy-free diets. Adjust the baking time as vegan cheese may melt differently. Puff pastry can be substituted with phyllo dough for a lighter, crispier texture. Use multiple layers of phyllo brushed with melted vegan butter or oil between each sheet. For a gluten-free version, almond flour or gluten-free oat flour mixed with coconut oil can create a suitable crust. Press this mixture into a pie dish instead of wrapping around the cheese. Brown sugar can be replaced with coconut sugar or a sugar-free sweetener like erythritol for those watching their sugar intake. Adjust the amount to taste, as alternative sweeteners may have different levels of sweetness.
| Preparation Time | 15-25 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 20 minutes |
| Total Time | 35-45 minutes |
| Level of Difficulty | Medium |
Estimated Nutrition
Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):
- Calories: 800-1000
- Protein: 20-30 g
- Fat: 50-70 g
- Carbohydrates: 70-90 g
Ingredients
- 1 sheet of pre-packaged frozen puff pastry (typically two sheets per pack)
- 1 tablespoon of butter
- ½ cup roughly chopped pecans
- 1/8 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 wheel brie (8-14 ounces)
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 beaten egg
- Crackers and apple slices for serving
Step 1: Prepare the Puff Pastry
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F.
Defrost the puff pastry by laying it out at room temperature for approximately 15 to 20 minutes.
Once it has defrosted, carefully unfold it on a flat surface.
Step 2: Cook the Pecan Mixture
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
Add pecans to the melted butter and sauté until they turn golden brown, around 5 minutes.
Sprinkle in the cinnamon and mix well until the pecans are thoroughly coated.
Remove from heat once done.
Step 3: Assemble the Brie en Croûte
Place the cooked pecan mixture on top of a wheel of Brie cheese.
Sprinkle brown sugar evenly over the pecan mixture.
Lay the defrosted puff pastry on a flat surface and position the Brie in its center.
Gather up the edges of the puff pastry around the Brie, pressing gently to adhere, and bring them together at the top.
Carefully fold and pinch the edges to ensure the pastry remains sealed during baking.
Step 4: Egg Wash and Bake
Using a brush, apply the beaten egg over the top and sides of the wrapped Brie to give the pastry a beautiful golden finish once baked.
Transfer the Brie to a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, remove the Brie en Croûte from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
Pair with crackers and fresh fruit such as sliced apples and strawberries for a delightful appetizer or addition to any meal.
Enjoy the warm, creamy Brie enveloped in a buttery, flaky crust with the sweet and nutty pecan topping.
