Baked Brie with Peaches and Walnuts

Baked brie with honey, peaches, and walnuts is a delicious appetizer or snack that combines the creamy richness of brie cheese with the juicy peaches and the nutty crunch of walnuts! It’s a delightful combination of flavors and textures.

What fruit goes best with brie?

Brie cheese pairs well with a variety of fruits, as its creamy and slightly tangy flavor complements the natural sweetness and textures of different fruits. Here are a few fruits that are commonly enjoyed with brie:

1. Apples: Crisp and slightly tart apples, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, are classic accompaniments to brie cheese. Their refreshing flavor and crunch provide a nice contrast to the creamy cheese.
2. Pears: Ripe and juicy pears, such as Bartlett or Bosc, offer a delicate sweetness that pairs beautifully with brie. Their soft texture and subtle flavors create a harmonious combination.
3. Grapes: Both red and green grapes are excellent choices to serve alongside brie. They add a burst of sweetness and juiciness that complements the creamy cheese. Plus, their natural acidity helps balance the richness of the brie.
4. Figs: Fresh figs have a luscious, jam-like sweetness and a unique texture that goes well with brie. Their honeyed flavor and soft flesh make them an elegant choice for pairing.
5. Berries: Strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries can provide a vibrant and fruity element to your brie cheese plate. Their natural sweetness and bright colors add a pop of freshness to each bite.
6. Peaches: Peaches and brie cheese can be a delicious pairing. The sweetness and juiciness of peaches complement the creamy and slightly tangy flavor of brie cheese. The combination of the soft, ripe peach with the rich, creamy brie creates a beautiful contrast in texture as well.

Do you take the rind off brie before baking?

When baking brie, it is not necessary to remove the rind before baking. The rind is edible and contributes to the flavor and texture of the cheese. In fact, leaving the rind intact can help hold the brie together during baking. By the way, Bifidobacteria (Bb-12) is a natural probiotic found in Brie rind, that may help improve digestion and relieve constipation.

However, whether to remove the rind or not is a matter of personal preference. Some people enjoy the flavor and texture of the rind and choose to leave it on, while others prefer to remove it before baking.

If you prefer to remove the rind, you can do so before baking by carefully cutting or peeling it off. This can be done with a sharp knife or by gently scoring the rind around the edge of the cheese and then peeling it away.

Keep in mind that removing the rind may result in a slightly different texture and flavor profile for the baked brie. The rind adds a bit of earthiness and depth to the overall taste. So, if you enjoy the rind, it is generally recommended to leave it on.

How to make Baked Brie with peaches?

Place the wheel of brie cheese on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Score the top rind of the cheese in a crisscross pattern, being careful not to cut all the way through. Pour the honey over the top of the scored Brie.

Sprinkle it with chopped walnuts. and place into the preheated oven for baking.

Bake the brie in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is soft and slightly melted. Carefully transfer the baked Brie to a serving platter using a spatula.

Place diced peach on top of baked Brie. If desired, sprinkle dried oregano over the baked Brie for added flavor. Serve immediately with crackers or a sliced baguette. Enjoy your delicious Baked Brie with Peaches!

How do you know when brie is done baking?

Knowing when brie is done baking primarily depends on the desired level of meltiness and texture you prefer. Here are a few indicators to help determine when baked brie is ready:

1. Softness: Baked brie should be soft and slightly melted in the center. Gently press the top of the cheese with a spoon or your finger. If it yields and feels soft and gooey, it is likely done baking.
2. Melting: The edges of the brie should be visibly softened and may start to melt, creating a creamy texture. Look for a slight molten appearance around the edges of the cheese.
3. Time and temperature: Brie typically takes about 10-12 minutes to bake at 350°F (175°C). However, the exact baking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of the cheese. Keep a close eye on it and use the recommended time as a guideline, adjusting as needed.
4. Visual cues: The surface of the brie may have a golden or slightly browned appearance after baking, which can be an indication that it is done. However, brie can still be fully melted and ready to serve without browning.

It’s important to note that brie continues to soften as it cools, so it’s better to slightly undercook it than to overcook it. If you prefer a runnier texture, you can bake it for a shorter time, while a longer baking time will yield a firmer texture.

Ultimately, it’s a matter of personal preference and experience. With practice, you’ll develop a sense of the ideal texture and consistency that you enjoy for your baked brie.

If you like Brie, check out this Baked Brie with Pistachios and Strawberry recipe!