Elegant Baked Brie & Jam Pastry Appetizers: The Ultimate 15-Minute Hors d’Oeuvre

BY :

Posted On :

Brie & Jam Pastry Appetizers

When hosting a dinner party, planning a holiday menu, or simply craving an elevated snack, there is one appetizer that consistently delivers maximum impact with minimal effort: the baked brie bite. These glorious, golden parcels specifically these Brie & Jam Pastry Appetizers combine the creamy decadence of melted Brie cheese, the sweet tang of raspberry jam, and the flaky, buttery perfection of puff pastry into a single, irresistible two-bite treat.

Forget spending hours crafting complex canapés. This recipe for Elegant Baked Brie and Raspberry Jam Pastry Bites is your secret weapon. Requiring just four main ingredients and about 15 minutes of bake time, these appetizers are ideal for unexpected guests or for adding a touch of sophisticated flair to your appetizer spread. We guide you through the process, from handling that delicate puff pastry to achieving that perfect, glossy finish, ensuring your Brie & Jam Pastry Appetizers are flawless every single time.

The beauty of this dish lies in the textural and flavor contrast. The hot, molten Brie cheese oozes gently, meeting the sweet fruit filling, all encased in a crisp, golden shell. Serve them warm, and watch them disappear instantly. If you need a quick, reliable, and deeply satisfying party snack, look no further than these spectacular little bundles.


Why You’ll Absolutely Love These Brie & Jam Pastry Appetizers

The world of appetizers is vast, but few recipes manage to balance simplicity and gourmet appeal quite like these baked Brie & Jam Pastry Appetizers. This isn’t just another finger food; it’s a culinary experience designed to impress with zero stress. If you are debating adding these to your menu, here are several compelling reasons why they will become a permanent fixture in your entertaining rotation.

Effortless Elegance: The Magic of Minimal Ingredients

In the culinary landscape, speed often means sacrificing quality or presentation. Not so with this recipe. The core components are humble: frozen puff pastry, a small wheel of Brie, and your favorite jam. These three ingredients, combined with a quick egg wash, transform into an appetizer that looks like it took hours of intricate work. The flaky, golden crust, the vibrant peek of jam, and the soft, white cheese create a visual appeal that screams sophistication. You can pull off a truly elegant hors d’oeuvre with about 20 minutes of active prep time a true entertaining miracle.

The Perfect Flavor Harmony

Brie cheese, famous for its creamy texture and mild, earthy flavor, is a masterful partner for fruit. When baked, the Brie melts into a luxurious pool, and the edible rind holds its structure just enough to keep the filling contained. Pairing this rich, slightly pungent cheese with the bright, tart sweetness of raspberry jam (or fig, or apricot) creates a balanced bite that delights the palate. It hits all the right notes: salty, sweet, buttery, and tart. Every single one of these Brie & Jam Pastry Appetizers offers a bite of creamy, fruity perfection.

Recipe Reliability and Accessibility

Unlike fussy recipes that demand precise timing and complex techniques, working with quality frozen puff pastry simplifies the entire process. Puff pastry is inherently forgiving; as long as you keep it cold and handle it gently, it will puff beautifully in the oven, guaranteeing that light, airy texture that is characteristic of premium baked goods. This high level of reliability makes these Brie & Jam Pastry Appetizers perfect for novice cooks who want to achieve professional-looking results right away.

Flexibility for Any Occasion

Whether you are hosting a formal Christmas party, a casual wine night with friends, or looking for a delicious appetizer for Thanksgiving, these baked brie bites fit seamlessly into any setting. They are easily scalable double the recipe for a large crowd or halve it for an intimate gathering. They transition effortlessly between seasons; a fig jam version is perfect for fall and winter, while raspberry or peach jam works wonderfully during the warmer months. These savory-sweet pockets are truly versatile.

The “Serve Warm” Advantage

One of the best aspects of these Brie & Jam Pastry Appetizers is that they are best served warm, meaning they fill your home with an incredible aroma as they bake, setting a cozy and inviting mood for your guests. While they must cool slightly to set the filling, the warm, yielding texture of the cheese is unmatched. This characteristic ensures your guests are enjoying them at peak deliciousness.


Why You Should Try This Recipe for Elegant Baked Brie Bites Today

If you’re still on the fence about tackling a recipe involving puff pastry, let us convince you that this is the easiest and most rewarding way to start. Moving beyond the sheer deliciousness, the practicality of this recipe makes it a must-try for modern home cooks and busy hosts. Trying these Brie & Jam Pastry Appetizers means embracing smart, efficient, and celebratory cooking.

Mastering the Art of Puff Pastry

Many home chefs fear working with puff pastry, but this recipe provides the perfect low-stakes opportunity to master handling this delicate ingredient. Because we are cutting the pastry into small squares and forming simple bundles, there is no intricate rolling, folding, or crimping involved. You will quickly learn the cardinal rule of puff pastry: keep it cold. By working quickly and efficiently while the pastry is still chilled, you ensure the layers of butter remain solid, ready to explode into hundreds of flaky strata when hit by the high oven heat. Achieving that gorgeous puff is immensely satisfying, and once you realize how easy it is to make these Brie & Jam Pastry Appetizers, you’ll be ready to tackle more complex puff pastry recipes, like savory tarts or turnovers.

A Guaranteed Crowd-Pleaser

When hosting, the goal is often to provide food that appeals to a wide variety of palates. Cheese and fruit is a universally loved combination, making these baked brie bites a guaranteed hit. They are visually appealing, easy to eat (no plates or complicated utensils required), and their flavor profile is deeply comforting yet refined. If you’ve ever served a complex dish only to see guests gravitate toward the simplest snack, you understand the value of a crowd-pleaser. These Brie & Jam Pastry Appetizers are that dish they vanish almost immediately, often prompting requests for the recipe.

Perfect for Make-Ahead Prep

While these appetizers should be baked immediately before serving, the assembly can be largely completed ahead of time. You can cut the pastry, cube the Brie, and have the jam ready to go. Even better, you can fully assemble the unbaked bites (steps 1 through 9) and arrange them on the parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover them loosely and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When guests arrive, simply apply the egg wash and pop them into the oven. This strategy is invaluable during busy holiday seasons, allowing you to focus on main courses while your star appetizer is simply waiting for its moment to shine. For another great make-ahead option, check out this recipe for 3-Ingredient Sausage Cream Cheese Dip, which pairs well with these sweet bites.

Superior to Pre-Made Appetizers

While you can buy frozen, pre-made brie bites, nothing compares to the freshness, flakiness, and flavor of homemade Brie & Jam Pastry Appetizers. Store-bought versions often have a thick, chewy crust and sometimes use lower-quality cheese or overly sugary jam. By making these yourself, you control the quality of the ingredients, ensuring the Brie is perfectly creamy and the jam is full of real fruit flavor. Plus, the joy and pride of serving a warm, freshly baked item is unparalleled.

Boosting Your Entertaining Confidence

Presenting a tray of these golden, professional-looking bites provides a huge boost to your confidence as a host. Guests will be impressed by the sophisticated presentation, unaware of the minimal effort involved. This confidence often translates into a more relaxed and enjoyable hosting experience, allowing you to fully engage with your friends and family rather than being stuck in the kitchen. Make these Brie & Jam Pastry Appetizers and solidify your reputation as an effortless entertainer.


Ingredients and Necessary Utensils for Flawless Brie Bites

Creating perfect baked Brie & Jam Pastry Appetizers starts with understanding the role of each ingredient and having the right tools on hand. Precision in measurement and temperature is key to success.

Essential Ingredients Checklist

Pastry and Filling

  • 1 sheet (approximately 14.1 ounces) Frozen Puff Pastry: This is the foundation. It must be thawed correctly, usually 30–40 minutes at room temperature, until pliable but still cold. Using a high-quality all-butter puff pastry (if available) will significantly enhance the flavor and flakiness.
  • 1 small wheel (4 to 6 ounces) of Brie Cheese: Choose a standard wheel, ensuring it is well-chilled before cutting. The rind is crucial here; it helps the cheese hold its shape slightly during the cutting process and adds structure when baking. We are using the entire rind, which is perfectly edible.
  • 1/2 cup Raspberry Jam (or alternative): The jam provides the essential sweetness and moisture contrast.
    • Focus on Quality: Use a high-quality, thick preserve or jam. A runnier jelly might boil out too quickly.
    • Jam Variations: While raspberry is classic, Fig Jam offers a sophisticated, savory-sweet profile, and Apricot Jam delivers a brighter, slightly tarter note. For holidays, Cranberry Sauce (thickened) also works beautifully.
  • 1 tablespoon All-Purpose Flour: Essential for dusting your work surface. This prevents the delicate puff pastry from sticking and tearing when you unfold and cut it.

Egg Wash: The Secret to Golden Perfection

The egg wash is non-negotiable for achieving that deep, inviting golden-brown color and glossy sheen that makes these Brie & Jam Pastry Appetizers look truly professional.

  • 1 large egg: Provides color and binding properties.
  • 1 teaspoon water or milk: Thins the egg slightly, making it easier to brush evenly and reducing the risk of a scrambled egg texture on the pastry. Milk tends to give a slightly richer color than water.

Recommended Tools and Utensils for Recipe Success

While this recipe is simple, having the right equipment speeds up the process and ensures consistent results.

Baking Essentials

  1. Large Baking Sheet: You will need one sheet to hold all 12 to 15 appetizers, allowing them ample space to puff up without touching.
  2. Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat: Absolutely essential. Brie is notoriously sticky when melted. Lining the sheet prevents the cheese and jam from fusing to the pan, ensuring easy cleanup and preventing the delicate pastry bottoms from tearing when lifted.

Preparation Tools

  • Sharp Knife or Pizza Cutter: A sharp tool is critical for cutting the puff pastry. A dull knife will drag and compress the delicate layers, inhibiting the pastry’s ability to rise properly. A pizza cutter is often the fastest and cleanest option for straight lines.
  • Pastry Brush: Needed for applying the egg wash. Choose a silicone or natural bristle brush. Ensure the application is light and even avoid pooling egg wash at the edges, as this glues the layers together and prevents rising.
  • Small Bowl and Fork: For mixing the egg wash.
  • Measuring Spoons/Cups: Necessary for accurately measuring the jam and egg wash liquid. While a “dollop” of jam is subjective, consistency ensures even baking.

The Importance of Temperature Control

Working with puff pastry is all about managing temperature. The frozen pastry must be thawed just enough to unfold without cracking, but still cold to the touch. If the dough gets warm, the butter layers soften, and the resulting bite will be heavy and dense rather than light and flaky. Work quickly when cutting and assembling your Brie & Jam Pastry Appetizers to keep the dough temperature down. If your kitchen is warm, you can place the prepared sheet back in the refrigerator for 5–10 minutes before applying the egg wash and baking.

For more great recipe tools and ideas for easy entertaining, consider following my page on Pinterest: Cocina Facilita Blog, where I share tips for quick prep and elegant plating.


Detailed Instructions: Creating Perfect Brie & Jam Pastry Appetizers

Follow these steps precisely to ensure your puff pastry rises beautifully and your filling stays secure, resulting in flawlessly formed and delicious brie bites.

Part 1: Preparation and Cutting (Prep Time: 10 minutes)

1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet

Adjust an oven rack to the middle position. Preheat your oven to a crucial temperature: 400°F (200°C). The high heat is necessary to activate the steam within the puff pastry layers, encouraging a rapid and significant rise. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This preparation step is vital to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of your finished Brie & Jam Pastry Appetizers.

2. Thaw the Puff Pastry Correctly

Take the sheet of frozen puff pastry out of the package. Allow it to thaw according to the package directions, usually about 30–40 minutes at room temperature. The pastry is ready when it is flexible enough to unfold easily without cracking, but still noticeably cold. Unfold the pastry sheet carefully onto a lightly floured work surface. Do not over-flour, as too much flour can make the pastry tough.

3. Cut the Pastry into Uniform Squares

Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the puff pastry sheet into 12 to 15 equal squares. For a standard rectangular sheet, you will aim for approximately three rows of four or five squares each. The squares should measure approximately 2.5 to 3 inches per side. Uniformity is important for even baking and attractive presentation.

4. Prepare the Brie Cheese

While the Brie is still well-chilled (cold Brie is much firmer and easier to handle), use a sharp knife to cut the cheese into small cubes. Each cube should be approximately 3/4-inch square. Ensure you have enough pieces to place one cube onto each of your pastry squares. Cutting the cheese cold minimizes stickiness and helps maintain its shape during the short baking cycle.

Part 2: Assembly (Prep Time: 10 minutes)

5. Lay Out the Squares

Transfer the cut pastry squares onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them out slightly. Remember, puff pastry expands significantly, so adequate spacing prevents your Brie & Jam Pastry Appetizers from fusing together.

6. Add the Jam Filling

Place a small, centered dollop of your chosen jam about 1/2 to 3/4 teaspoon onto the center of each puff pastry square. This is a critical step: Be conservative with the jam. Using too much will result in the jam boiling out of the pastry pocket during baking, leading to sticky, scorched edges.

7. Place the Brie Cube

Gently place one square of the cut Brie cheese directly on top of the jam layer on each pastry square. The jam acts as a buffer between the Brie and the pastry, which also helps the cheese melt nicely within the pocket.

8. Form the Appetizers into Bundles

This folding technique creates the elegant “purse” shape. Take two opposing corners of the pastry square (e.g., top-left and bottom-right) and bring them together over the top of the cheese. Pinch these corners firmly together at the center point. Then, take the remaining two opposing corners and bring them up to meet the first two corners at that same center point. This creates a secure four-point bundle.

9. Seal the Edges Securely

Pinch all four seams together firmly to create a secure bundle. For extra security and a charming decorative touch, use the tines of a fork to press down along all the seams and edges of the pastry. The fork pressing technique is essential; it locks the pastry layers together, significantly helping to prevent the molten cheese and jam from leaking out during the high heat of the oven.

Part 3: Baking and Finishing (Cook Time: 15–18 minutes)

10. Prepare the Egg Wash

In a small bowl, whisk the large egg with the teaspoon of water or milk until the mixture is uniform and smooth. This is your professional-grade egg wash, which will ensure the Brie & Jam Pastry Appetizers achieve a beautiful, deep, golden-brown color and a glossy finish.

11. Apply the Egg Wash

Using a clean pastry brush, lightly brush the tops and sides of each assembled pastry appetizer with the egg wash. Brush lightly! Avoid letting the egg wash run down and pool around the base of the pastry, as this will glue the delicate layers to the baking sheet and stop them from puffing fully.

12. Bake Until Golden

Place the baking sheet into the preheated 400°F (200°C) oven. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes. Do not open the oven door during the first 10 minutes, as this can cause the pastry to deflate. The appetizers are done when the puff pastry is fully puffed, beautifully golden brown, and the Brie cheese is visibly soft (you might see small amounts of melted cheese or jam just peeking out of the seams). If they are browning too quickly, you can slightly reduce the temperature to 375°F (190°C) for the last five minutes.

13. Cool and Serve Warm

Carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. This next step is crucial for safety and texture: Let the appetizers cool on the baking sheet for at least 5 to 10 minutes before attempting to serve or move them. The filling will be extremely hot and needs time to set slightly. If you move them too soon, the hot, liquid Brie will pour out. Serve these Brie & Jam Pastry Appetizers warm, but not piping hot, for the best flavor and texture.

For another delicious and quick appetizer idea, try our recipe for Cranberry Jalapeño Dip, a great complementary flavor contrast to the sweet brie bites.


Tips, Troubleshooting, and Delicious Variations

While the basic recipe for Brie & Jam Pastry Appetizers is straightforward, a few expert tips can elevate your results, and knowing some variations ensures you can adapt this recipe for any taste or dietary need.

Pro Tips to Ensure the Perfect Puff

  • Keep the Dough Cold: I cannot stress this enough. If the puff pastry starts to feel warm and sticky, stop immediately. Place the tray (or the sheet itself) back into the refrigerator for 10–15 minutes to firm up the butter before continuing assembly or baking.
  • Use Clean Cuts: When cutting the pastry, ensure your knife is sharp. Press straight down firmly rather than sawing. Sawing seals the edges prematurely, which prevents the layers from lifting properly.
  • The Flour Balance: Use just enough flour to prevent sticking. Too much flour on the surface can dry out the dough and result in a less tender crust. Brush off any excess flour before folding.

Troubleshooting Common Mistakes

  1. My filling leaked everywhere: This is the number one issue. It’s usually caused by using too much jam, or improperly sealing the corners. Next time, use less jam (start with 1/2 teaspoon) and ensure you really pinch and fork-crimp those four seams tightly.
  2. My pastry didn’t puff: This almost always means the dough was too warm when it went into the oven, or you used a dull knife to cut it, pressing the layers together. Ensure your oven is fully preheated to 400°F (200°C).
  3. The bottoms are soggy: If your pastry bottoms are damp, it could mean you used too much egg wash and it pooled beneath the pastry, or your baking sheet was overcrowded, inhibiting air circulation. Ensure adequate spacing and a light egg wash application.

Savory and Sweet Variations for Your Brie Bites

The beauty of the Brie & Jam Pastry Appetizers framework is its versatility. You can easily swap out the jam for different fillings to suit the occasion:

Sweet Variations:

  • Cranberry-Pecan: Use thick cranberry sauce (especially good around Christmas) and add 2-3 finely chopped toasted pecans inside the bundle for texture.
  • Apple-Cinnamon: Use a teaspoon of thick apple butter instead of jam.
  • Spicy Mango or Pepper Jelly: For a delightful kick, swap the sweet jam for a quality pepper jelly (jalapeño or habanero). The creamy cheese beautifully tempers the heat.

Cheese and Pastry Alternatives:

  • Gluten-Free Option: While puff pastry is traditionally wheat-based, several excellent brands now offer frozen gluten-free puff pastry sheets. Follow the same preparation steps, keeping the dough very cold.
  • Dairy Swap: If Brie is too mild or unavailable, Camembert (which is richer and more earthy) or even a firm, high-quality goat cheese (chevre) works wonderfully. Note that goat cheese tends to hold its shape more than Brie when baked.
  • Vegan Adaptation: High-quality vegan puff pastry is readily available (check ingredients, as many are accidentally vegan). Replace the Brie with a firm, sliceable vegan cheese alternative that melts well, and swap the egg wash for a mixture of plant milk (almond or oat) mixed with a tiny pinch of turmeric for color.

Nutritional Considerations and Ingredient Benefits

While Brie & Jam Pastry Appetizers are undeniably an indulgence, they are a party food that offers a balance of macronutrients and key health benefits derived primarily from the cheese and fruit components.

General Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving, Estimated)

As these appetizers combine rich cheese and high-carb pastry, they are caloric and best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. (Note: Nutritional values are highly dependent on the brand of puff pastry and the jam used.)

Nutrient Estimated Value (Per Appetizer)
Calories 80–110 kcal
Total Fat 6–8 g
Saturated Fat 3.5–5 g
Carbohydrates 5–8 g
Sugar 2–4 g (mostly from jam)
Protein 2–3 g

Benefits of Key Ingredients

Brie Cheese: A Source of Calcium and Protein

Brie cheese, like most soft cheeses, is an excellent source of calcium, which is vital for bone health. It also provides high-quality protein, which helps with muscle maintenance and satiety. Additionally, Brie contains beneficial amounts of Vitamin A and B vitamins. When baked, the cheese’s nutrient profile remains largely intact, offering these benefits in a delicious, creamy format. The high fat content, derived from butterfat, is what gives Brie its signature luxurious texture, making these Brie & Jam Pastry Appetizers so satisfying.

Puff Pastry: Energy and Texture

While puff pastry (made primarily of flour and butter) is calorie-dense, it serves as an efficient source of energy (carbohydrates and fats). It is important to remember that this ingredient is used sparingly in small appetizer portions, providing texture and flavor rather than acting as a primary nutrient source. The goal here is textural perfection: that flaky, buttery crust.

Raspberry Jam: Antioxidants and Fiber

Raspberry jam, when using a variety made with minimal added sugars, contributes important nutritional elements. Raspberries are known for being rich in antioxidants, particularly Vitamin C, which supports the immune system. They also contain dietary fiber, although the amount is reduced when processed into jam. Choosing a quality jam with high fruit content ensures you maximize these benefits while providing that essential burst of tartness that balances the richness of the Brie.

Serving these Brie & Jam Pastry Appetizers alongside lighter fare, such as a crisp green salad or some fresh vegetable crudités, ensures a well-rounded and delightful party spread. For instance, pairing these with a fresh side like Caprese Salad with Balsamic Reduction offers a wonderful contrast in flavor and texture.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Brie & Jam Pastry Appetizers

Can I prepare these Brie & Jam Pastry Appetizers ahead of time?

Yes, you can fully assemble the unbaked brie bites (steps 1 through 9) on the prepared baking sheet. Once assembled and sealed, cover them loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, apply the egg wash and bake immediately. Baking from chilled might require 1-2 extra minutes of cooking time.

Do I need to remove the rind from the Brie cheese before baking?

No, definitely not. The rind is completely edible and serves a crucial structural purpose in this recipe. When baking Brie & Jam Pastry Appetizers, the rind helps contain the cheese and maintains the shape of the cubes while they melt inside the puff pastry pocket, resulting in a neater filling.

What is the best way to prevent the jam and cheese from leaking out?

To prevent leakage, there are two key steps: first, be conservative with the jam stick to 1/2 to 3/4 teaspoon per bite. Second, ensure the pastry is firmly sealed. After pinching the four corners together, use the tines of a fork to crimp all the seams tightly. This creates a strong barrier against the molten filling.

How do I store and reheat leftover baked brie appetizers?

Leftover Brie & Jam Pastry Appetizers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them on a parchment-lined tray and bake in a preheated oven (or air fryer) at 350°F (175°C) for about 5–8 minutes, or until the pastry is crisp and the cheese is soft again. Avoid using a microwave, as it will make the pastry soggy.

Can I use a different type of pastry besides puff pastry for these appetizer bites?

While puff pastry provides the signature flaky texture, you could substitute it with phyllo dough for a crispier, more fragile texture (use several layers brushed with butter), or store-bought crescent roll dough for a softer, bread-like outcome. However, for the best flavor and elegant presentation, we highly recommend sticking with puff pastry for these Brie & Jam Pastry Appetizers.


Conclusion: The Ultimate Party Solution with Brie & Jam Pastry Appetizers

We’ve covered everything you need to know to create a batch of show-stopping, effortlessly elegant baked brie bites. This recipe for Elegant Baked Brie and Raspberry Jam Pastry Bites truly proves that sophisticated entertaining does not require complexity. By utilizing the convenient layers of frozen puff pastry and the classic pairing of rich Brie and vibrant jam, you can produce a gourmet hors d’oeuvre in under 40 minutes, inclusive of both prep and bake time.

Remember the critical steps for success: work with cold puff pastry, use a conservative amount of jam, and seal those seams firmly with a fork to protect that gorgeous, melted filling. Whether you opt for the traditional raspberry, a sophisticated fig, or a spicy pepper jelly, these Brie & Jam Pastry Appetizers are a guaranteed conversation starter and plate-clearer at any gathering.

Stop stressing over your appetizer menu. Embrace the simplicity and supreme deliciousness of these golden, cheesy parcels. They offer the perfect sweet and savory contrast that pairs beautifully with wine, cocktails, or simply great company. Bake a batch today, share your results, and enjoy the praise!

If you loved this quick and impressive recipe, be sure to explore more of our easy entertaining solutions, like our guide to easy holiday treats or delicious savory dips. Happy baking!

Elegant Baked Brie and Raspberry Jam Pastry Bites

These beautiful puff pastry appetizers combine rich, melted Brie cheese with sweet raspberry jam, wrapped in flaky, golden pastry. They are quick to prepare and perfect for holiday entertaining or cocktail parties.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 18 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 14 appetizers
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: French, Fusion
Calories: 210

Ingredients
  

Pastry and Filling
  • 1 sheet (14.1 oz) Frozen Puff Pastry thawed according to package directions
  • 1 small wheel (4 to 6 ounces) Brie cheese chilled
  • 1/2 cup Raspberry Jam or Apricot Jam, or Fig Jam (use a quality thick variety)
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour for dusting the work surface
Egg Wash
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon water or milk

Equipment

  • Baking Sheet
  • Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat
  • Pastry Brush
  • Small mixing bowl

Method
 

Part 1: Preparation and Cutting
  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and adjust an oven rack to the middle position. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
  2. Unfold the thawed puff pastry sheet carefully onto a lightly floured work surface. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the pastry sheet into 12 to 15 equal squares (approximately 2.5 to 3 inches per side).
  3. While the Brie is still chilled, cut the cheese into small cubes, approximately 3/4-inch square, ensuring the rind remains intact on each piece. Set aside one cube for each pastry square.
Part 2: Assembly
  1. Place all the cut pastry squares onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly. Place a small, centered dollop of jam (about 1/2 to 3/4 teaspoon) onto the center of each square, followed by one square of the cut Brie cheese directly on top of the jam layer.
  2. To seal the bites, bring two opposing corners of the pastry square together over the center of the cheese and pinch firmly. Then, bring the remaining two opposing corners up to meet the center point. Pinch all four seams together securely. Use the tines of a fork to crimp and reinforce the seams and edges.
Part 3: Baking and Finishing
  1. Prepare the Egg Wash: Whisk the large egg with the teaspoon of water or milk until well combined. Use a pastry brush to lightly coat the tops and sides of each assembled pastry with the egg wash for a golden, glossy finish.
  2. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the puff pastry is fully puffed, flaky, and beautifully golden brown. The Brie should be visibly melted.
  3. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the appetizers to cool on the sheet for at least 5 to 10 minutes. Serve warm (not piping hot) to ensure the molten filling has time to set slightly.

Notes

For a flavor variation, sprinkle a small amount of finely chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts) over the jam layer before adding the Brie. If you are preparing these ahead of time, assemble the pastries, place them on the baking sheet, and freeze them until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container. Bake from frozen, adding 5 to 7 minutes to the baking time.

You might also like these recipes