Scary Baked Brie Recipe

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Our Scary Baked Brie may look repulsive, but taste-wise, its creamy and savory with a hint of sweetness, and so much gooey, buttery goodness.

Test Kitchen Tips: This recipe was developed in our test kitchen by culinary producer Nicole McLaughlin. Here are some tips to make the cooking process easier:

• We used a 13.2-ounce wheel of brie, but any round brie will work theyre available in most grocery stores.
• Make sure the brie stays chilled until preparation so itll hold up better during the cooking process.
• The exterior is flaky and warm, and it pairs well with cool, crisp apples or thin, sturdy crackers and some chilled white wine.

Ingredients: This recipe yields 10 servings (1X). Ingredient amounts are automatically adjusted for different yields, but cooking times and steps remain unchanged. Note that not all recipes scale perfectly.

• 1 (13.2 ounce) Brie round
• 2 tablespoons plus 1 teaspoon cherry preserves, divided
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped nuts (such as almonds, pecans, or walnuts)
• 1/2 (17.3 ounce) package frozen puff pastry sheets, thawed
• 1 large egg, beaten
• Sliced apples, crackers, bread, and grapes for serving

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400F (200C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Slice the Brie round in half horizontally. Spread 1 tablespoon of the preserves over the bottom half, and sprinkle with chopped nuts. Place the top half of the round over the nuts and preserves, rind side up. Spread 1 tablespoon of the preserves over the top and set aside.
3. Place a puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Trim 1 inch of pastry sheet from the shorter end to create more of a square shape. Set aside.
4. Roll the square pastry piece to slightly thin out the sheet. Cut two eyes and a mouth shape from the center of the square.
5. Using a piece of trimmed pastry, form a nose shape and place it in the center of the Brie round, on top of the preserves.
6. Carefully place the square cut-out sheet over the nose and gently form a face with the dough. Use more pieces of trimmed pastry to add eyelids, lips, and other details as desired. Trim off any excess dough.
7. Wrap the pastry around the cheese, sealing it together underneath. Place the wrapped Brie, seam side down, on the prepared baking sheet. Brush with the beaten egg.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the pastry is evenly golden brown.
9. Garnish with the remaining preserves to create a "bloody" effect. Place on a serving platter with desired accompaniments. For a spookier effect, insert a cheese knife in the side of the cheese.

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

Calories	302
Total Fat	21g (27% Daily Value)
Saturated Fat	8g (41% Daily Value)
Cholesterol	56mg (19% Daily Value)
Sodium	306mg (13% Daily Value)
Total Carbohydrate	18g (6% Daily Value)
Dietary Fiber	1g (4% Daily Value)
Total Sugars	5g
Protein	11g (21% Daily Value)
Vitamin C	1mg (1% Daily Value)
Calcium	78mg (6% Daily Value)
Iron	1mg (6% Daily Value)
Potassium	114mg (2% Daily Value)

Scary Baked Brie is a creative and delicious twist on the classic baked Brie. This spooky appetizer adds a fun and eerie touch to your Halloween celebration, turning the ordinary into something truly special. With its gooey, creamy interior, wrapped in flaky puff pastry and adorned with spooky eyes, a mouth, and even a "bloody" effect, its sure to impress guests and spark conversation. But behind the Halloween theme, its simply an irresistible, savory dish that blends rich cheese with a hint of sweetness and crunch.

History and Origin of Baked Brie

The concept of baked Brie, a cheese traditionally made in the Brie region of France, dates back centuries. This soft cheese, known for its creamy interior and edible white rind, has been a staple in French cuisine since the 8th century. The idea of baking Brie to melt the interior and create a warm, savory treat likely emerged in the 18th or 19th century, as it gained popularity in European and American kitchens. The scary twist on this classic is a recent innovation, adding a touch of seasonal fun to an already beloved appetizer.

Regional Variations of Baked Brie

While Baked Brie is enjoyed worldwide, its preparation varies by region. In the U.S., its often served with sweet fruit preserves, nuts, and a crispy puff pastry crust. However, in France, Brie is more commonly paired with a simple drizzle of honey or served alongside fresh bread and fruit. In some regions of Europe, particularly in the UK, Brie may be baked with savory herbs like rosemary or thyme, while in Canada, maple syrup is a favorite addition. The Scary Baked Brie stands out for its Halloween-inspired design, which is a playful and seasonal variation aimed at creating a memorable and spooky presentation.

What Makes Scary Baked Brie Unique?

Unlike traditional baked Brie, which is typically topped with honey, nuts, or fruits, the "Scary Baked Brie" takes a whimsical turn by incorporating a spooky visual design. The puff pastry is shaped into a face, with eyes, a nose, and a mouth, adding a fun element to the dish. The use of cherry preserves creates a "bloody" effect that enhances the Halloween theme, making this dish a great conversation starter at any Halloween party or themed gathering.

Where to Serve Scary Baked Brie

This spooky appetizer is perfect for Halloween parties, fall gatherings, or any event where you want to impress your guests with a creative and delicious dish. Its ideal for casual get-togethers, dinner parties, or even as a fun addition to a buffet table. Whether served alongside crackers, sliced apples, or fresh bread, Scary Baked Brie will surely steal the spotlight. Its creamy texture and savory flavor pair beautifully with chilled white wine or cider, making it a versatile dish for various occasions.

Interesting Facts About Scary Baked Brie

• The origin of "Baked Brie" as a dish is rooted in France, but the concept of wrapping cheese in pastry has been popular in various forms across Europe.
• The "scary" design of the Brie was popularized by food bloggers and Halloween enthusiasts who enjoy combining creativity with culinary tradition.
• Brie is named after the region of Brie in northern France, which has been producing this cheese for centuries. The name "Brie" comes from the word "bri," meaning "hill," which is a reference to the area's terrain.
• One of the best ways to serve Scary Baked Brie is with fresh fruits like grapes or apples, which contrast the rich, creamy cheese with their crispness and sweetness.

This spooky twist on baked Brie is not only fun to look at but also a treat for the taste buds. Its a great way to celebrate Halloween while enjoying one of the world's most beloved cheeses in a new and exciting way!

FAQ about Scary Baked Brie Recipe