Save Baked Brie with Fig Jam and Pistachios is my go-to appetizer whenever I want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of creamy Brie, luscious fig jam, and crunchy pistachios always disappears within minutes and sets a warm, welcoming tone for any gathering.
I once brought this to a book club and everyone agreed it felt like a restaurant treat at home.
Ingredients
- Brie cheese wheel: I recommend choosing a high-quality, double-cream Brie for the silkiest texture and mild, creamy taste
- Fig jam: Look for a jam with visible fig seeds and a deep, caramel color for the richest sweetness and slight berry tang
- Shelled pistachios: Pick pistachios that are vibrantly green and fragrant to ensure maximum crunch and flavor
- Fresh thyme leaves (optional): Adds a fresh herbal note that lifts all the richness try to use sprigs with small, bright green leaves
- Small baguette or assorted crackers: Go with a crusty baguette sliced on the bias for beautiful presentation or make this completely gluten free with sturdy rice crackers
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit this temperature is just right to soften and melt the Brie without risking a lava flow
- Prepare the Baking Sheet:
- Line a small baking sheet with parchment paper to keep cleanup easy and prevent sticking
- Arrange the Brie:
- Place the Brie wheel in the center of your lined baking sheet leaving space around the edges so the toppings do not spill over while baking
- Top with Jam:
- Use a small spatula or the back of a spoon to gently spread an even layer of fig jam across the top of the Brie getting as close to the edge as possible
- Add Pistachios and Thyme:
- Sprinkle the chopped pistachios all over the jam surface for crunch and color followed by a scattering of fresh thyme leaves to add an herbal accent if you like
- Bake to Perfection:
- Slide the pan into the oven and bake for about twelve to fifteen minutes the Brie should become soft and begin to look gooey without collapsing completely
- Let it Rest:
- Remove the Brie from the oven and let it settle for two to three minutes this gives the cheese time to firm up slightly so slicing is easier
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Transfer to a cutting board or platter and serve warm with slices of baguette or sturdy crackers invite guests to scoop right in while the cheese is still luxuriously melted
Save Pistachios are my favorite part of this recipe their crunch and subtle nuttiness heighten the soft Brie and jam so much. The first time I made this was for my parents fortieth anniversary party and the tray vanished before dinner was even served.
Storage tips
Let your baked Brie cool completely before storing in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to two days. To reheat just pop it back into a moderate oven for five to eight minutes or until warm and gooey again. If you have leftovers spread a little on crusty bread for a gourmet snack the next day.
Ingredient substitutions
You can swap fig jam with apricot preserves for a brighter flavor or cranberry sauce for holiday flair. Try walnuts or pecans instead of pistachios for a different crunch. Rosemary can stand in for thyme or simply enjoy without herbs for pure simplicity. Gluten free bread and seed crackers make this accessible for everyone at the table.
Serving suggestions
Serve this warm out of the oven with seeded crackers toasted baguette slices or even fresh apple wedges. It also makes a beautiful centerpiece for wine night or as part of a larger grazing board with fresh fruit olives cured meats and pickles.
Save This appetizer brings people together every time and sets the stage for a special meal. If you have never tried baked Brie before you might just find yourself making it for every gathering from now on.
Kitchen Help
- → What can I use instead of fig jam?
Apricot preserves or cranberry sauce work well for similar sweetness and texture atop the cheese.
- → How do I know when the Brie is ready?
The cheese should be soft and just beginning to ooze, while still maintaining its shape.
- → Can I use other nuts besides pistachios?
Chopped pecans or walnuts offer delicious crunch if you prefer a different nut flavor.
- → What wines pair well with this dish?
Crisp wines like Sauvignon Blanc or light sparkling varieties complement the creamy, nutty flavors.
- → Are gluten-free options available for serving?
Serve with gluten-free crackers or bread substitutes to accommodate dietary needs.
- → Can this appetizer be made ahead?
You can assemble ahead and bake just before serving for best texture and a warm presentation.