Baked Brie with Apricot Preserves

The first time I served baked Brie at a dinner party, I was nervous it would be too simple, too unassuming. But the moment I pulled that golden wheel from the oven and the room filled with that unmistakable buttery aroma, my friends literally gathered around the baking sheet. Someone whispered oh my god under their breath, and within minutes, the platter was completely empty except for a few sticky crumbs.

Last Christmas Eve, my sister arrived two hours early and caught me mid preparation. We ended up standing in the kitchen, eating the test batch straight from the baking sheet with whatever crackers we could find, laughing through the whole mess. Now its not a proper holiday gathering unless that bubbling Brie makes an appearance.

Ingredients

• 1 (8-ounce / 225 g) wheel of Brie cheese: Bring it to room temperature for 20 minutes before baking for the meltiest consistency
• 1/3 cup (80 g) apricot preserves: Fig jam or raspberry preserves work beautifully if you want to switch things up
• 1/4 cup (30 g) pecans, roughly chopped: Toast them in a dry skillet for 2 to 3 minutes to bring out their natural oils and deepen their flavor
• 1 tablespoon honey: This adds a lovely finishing sweetness but is totally optional if you prefer less sugar
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves: The earthy herbal note cuts through the richness and makes the dish feel more sophisticated
• Crackers or sliced baguette: Have plenty ready because people will go back for seconds and thirds

Instructions

Get the oven ready:

Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and line a small baking sheet with parchment paper to catch any delicious overflow

Prepare the Brie:

Place the wheel on your prepared baking sheet and score the top in a crosshatch pattern if you want the cheese to melt more evenly

Add the toppings:

Spread the apricot preserves all over the top then scatter those toasted pecans and drizzle with honey if you are using it

Bake to perfection:

Slide into the oven for 12 to 15 minutes until the Brie is soft and starting to ooze but has not completely lost its shape

Let it rest briefly:

Remove from the oven and wait 2 to 3 minutes so it sets up slightly then transfer to your serving platter and sprinkle with fresh thyme

Serve immediately:

Put it out warm with crackers or baguette slices and watch it disappear

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My neighbor texted me at midnight once after I had served this at a block party, begging for the recipe because her husband would not stop talking about it. Now every time we get together for appetizers and wine, she gives me this knowing look like should we just make the Brie again.

Choosing The Right Preserves

I have experimented with dozens of jams over the years and found that apricot preserves strike the perfect balance between sweet and tart without overpowering the delicate flavor of the Brie. Raspberry adds a beautiful brightness while fig brings a more sophisticated earthy sweetness that pairs wonderfully with red wine.

Serving Suggestions

A sparkling wine or crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc cuts through the richness beautifully. I have also served this alongside sliced apples and pears when I want to add fresh elements to the platter.

Make Ahead Tips

You can assemble everything up to an hour before baking and keep it covered at room temperature. The preserves might weep slightly into the cheese but this actually enhances the final result.

• Score the top of the Brie deeply for easier spreading once baked
• Have your serving platter ready before you start baking so you can transfer immediately
• Double the recipe for larger crowds because one wheel is never enough

Save Pin

Somehow this simple dish manages to feel elegant and comforting all at once, turning ordinary moments into something worth celebrating.

Recipe FAQs

→ How do you prevent the Brie from fully melting while baking?

Bake the Brie just until it becomes soft and starts to ooze, typically around 12–15 minutes, avoiding overheating to maintain some structure.

→ Can I substitute the apricot preserves with other toppings?

Yes, fig jam or raspberry preserves provide delightful alternative flavors that complement the creamy Brie.

→ What does toasting pecans add to this dish?

Toasting pecans enhances their natural flavor and adds a pleasant crunch, enriching the overall texture.

→ Is it necessary to score the Brie before baking?

Scoring the top can help the preserves seep into the cheese and create an appealing texture but is optional.

→ What are good serving options with this warm Brie dish?

Serve with crackers or sliced baguette to complement the creamy, nutty flavors and add a satisfying crunch.

→ Are there any suggested beverage pairings?

This dish pairs well with sparkling wine or a crisp white wine, which balance the richness of the cheese and sweetness of the preserves.