Baked Brie en Croûte with Raspberry Jam and Almonds

Introduction

Baked Brie en Croûte with Raspberry Jam and Almonds is the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer that effortlessly combines elegance with comfort. “En croûte” is French for “in a crust,” and in this dish, creamy brie cheese is wrapped in flaky puff pastry, filled with sweet-tart raspberry jam, and sprinkled with nutty toasted almonds. The pastry bakes up golden and crisp while the brie inside melts into a luscious, gooey center that pairs beautifully with the fruity jam and crunchy almonds.

This recipe is perfect for entertaining—whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, a wine-and-cheese night, or an intimate dinner party. It looks impressive, tastes divine, and always gets rave reviews from guests.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it represents simplicity with sophistication. With just a few quality ingredients, you can create something that feels gourmet and indulgent. The textures are what make this dish magical: the crisp puff pastry, the creamy molten cheese, the sweet fruit jam, and the nutty crunch of almonds.

Another reason I adore it is its versatility. You can switch out the jam flavors, nuts, or even add savory touches like herbs and caramelized onions. It’s one of those recipes that never fails to feel special, no matter how many times you make it.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Showstopping appetizer: Looks like it came from a fine French bistro.
• Effortless elegance: Only a handful of ingredients, yet rich in flavor.
• Perfectly balanced: Sweet, salty, creamy, and crunchy in every bite.
• Crowd favorite: Guests always go back for seconds.
• Customizable: Works with endless variations of jams, nuts, or cheese.

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 6–8 (as an appetizer)
• Calories per Serving: ~280 kcal
• Course: Appetizer / Starter
• Cuisine: French-inspired

Ingredients

• 1 sheet puff pastry (store-bought, thawed if frozen)
• 1 wheel of brie (8 oz / 225 g, round)
• 3 tablespoons raspberry jam (or preserves)
• 2 tablespoons sliced almonds (toasted preferred)
• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• 1 teaspoon water
• Crackers, toasted baguette slices, or apple slices (for serving)

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Pastry and Brie

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the puff pastry sheet to smooth any creases.

Step 2: Assemble the Brie en Croûte

1. Place the brie wheel in the center of the puff pastry.
2. Spread raspberry jam evenly on top of the brie.
3. Sprinkle toasted almonds over the jam.
4. Fold the pastry up over the brie, sealing the edges by pinching them together at the top. Trim any excess pastry if needed.

Step 3: Brush and Bake

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water to make an egg wash.
2. Brush the puff pastry all over with the egg wash for a glossy golden finish.
3. Place the wrapped brie seam-side up on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
4. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until pastry is golden brown.

Step 4: Rest and Serve

1. Let the baked brie rest for 5–10 minutes before cutting into it.
2. Serve warm with crackers, baguette slices, or fruit.

How to Serve

• Place the baked brie on a wooden board or platter for a rustic presentation.
• Surround it with crackers, toasted baguette, apple slices, or grapes for dipping.
• Slice open at the table for a dramatic reveal of the melted, gooey cheese.

Recipe Tips

• Chill the brie for 15 minutes before wrapping—it makes assembly easier.
• Don’t skip resting time: If you cut too soon, the melted cheese will run out too quickly.
• Toast the almonds beforehand for extra flavor and crunch.
• Decorate the pastry: Use trimmed pastry scraps to cut shapes (like leaves) and place them on top before baking for a fancier look.

Variations

• Different Jams: Try fig, apricot, cranberry, or blackberry jam.
• Nut Swaps: Use pecans, walnuts, or pistachios instead of almonds.
• Savory Twist: Add caramelized onions or roasted garlic instead of jam.
• Herb Infusion: Sprinkle fresh rosemary or thyme inside with the cheese.
• Mini Brie en Croûte: Use small brie rounds and make individual portions.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers wrapped tightly in foil for up to 2 days. Reheat at 350°F (175°C) until warm.
• Freezing: Brie en croûte can be assembled (before baking) and frozen for up to 1 month. Bake from frozen, adding 5–7 minutes to baking time.
• Do not freeze after baking as the cheese texture won’t hold up.

Special Equipment Needed

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Pastry brush (for egg wash)
• Small bowl (for whisking egg wash)

Conclusion

Baked Brie en Croûte with Raspberry Jam and Almonds is a timeless appetizer that embodies elegance, flavor, and ease. The creamy brie, fruity jam, and nutty crunch wrapped in buttery puff pastry create a perfect bite every time. Whether served at a festive holiday party, a cozy gathering, or a romantic evening, this dish never fails to impress.

It’s quick to prepare, endlessly customizable, and always delivers that “wow” factor. Once you try it, it’s bound to become a signature dish for your entertaining table.