Classic Baked Brie: The Best Appetizer for Any Crowd

For the past ten years, my go-to appetizer for gatherings—whether I’m hosting friends or attending a potluck—has been my Classic Baked Brie (or “CBB” as it’s affectionately known among my circle). This recipe is a reliable crowd-pleaser, consistently garnering rave reviews and happy faces. While there are certainly fancier baked brie recipes out there (and we will be making many of those posts this holiday season), this one is beautifully simple and always hits the mark. The combination of creamy cheese, sweet honey, and tangy red pepper jelly is a harmonious blend of flavors that brings comfort and joy to any occasion.

The Allure of Baked Brie

Baked brie has become a staple at parties and gathering– and for good reason! The rich, gooey texture of warm brie is irresistible, and it pairs beautifully with various accompaniments. It’s elegant yet approachable, making it perfect for casual get-togethers or more formal events. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a holiday gathering, or simply enjoying a cozy evening with friends, baked brie never fails to impress.

In my experience, the best appetizers are the ones that can be prepared quickly without sacrificing flavor. This Classic Baked Brie checks all the boxes: it’s easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and offers a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. Let’s dive into the details of this timeless recipe, which is sure to become a favorite in your home as it has in mine!

The Ingredients

To make this Classic Baked Brie, you’ll need just a handful of ingredients:

• 1 wheel of brie cheese: The star of the show! You don’t need to break the bank here, this brie we got from Aldi? 3.99. I’m not kidding. And it tastes incredible! Leave the fancy stuff for the charcuterie board.

• Red Pepper Jelly: This adds a sweet and tangy kick that balances the richness of the brie. We use the one from Trader Joe’s– because again it’s SO affordable! 

• Honey: I prefer using fireweed honey from Golden Meadows Honey Farm for its unique floral notes and the numerous benefits but any honey will do. It adds a lovely sweetness.
• 2 large sprigs of fresh rosemary: The aroma of rosemary complements the other flavors perfectly and adds a touch of elegance. 
• Optional accompaniments: Sliced baguette, crackers, or fresh fruit for serving. In a perfect world I would use very thin rosemary crackers only, but we ran out of those so we used some crackers from a variety pack and trust me– It was still delicious.

Preparing the Classic Baked Brie

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). A hot oven is essential for achieving that delightful melted brie texture.

Step 2: Score the Brie

While the oven heats up, place your brie on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Using a sharp knife, gently score the top of the brie in a crisscross pattern. This step is crucial as it allows the flavors of the toppings to seep into the cheese, creating an even more delicious experience.

Step 4: Spread it Open

Pull apart the brie to really open up the scores you made, this allows for the jelly to fully seep into the entire wheel and makes for a much better tasting CBB!

Step 4: Add the Toppings

Now it’s time to layer on the good stuff! First, spread the red pepper jelly generously over the scored surface of the brie.

The jelly’s sweetness and slight heat beautifully contrast the cheese’s creamy richness. It’s hard to over do it here to be honest with you. Do the amount that feels right to you. If you’re nervous you can always put more jelly on the side. 

Next, drizzle the honey over the jelly, allowing it to flow into the crevices of the brie. This adds an additional layer of sweetness and depth. Finally, tuck the two sprigs of fresh rosemary on top. The rosemary not only enhances the flavor but will make you feel a little fancy.

Step 5: Bake the Brie

This is gonna get messy and gooey real quick. I recommend using a small dish you can cover. The one we are using is actually called a “Brie Baking Dish” and I thought that was just so cool. You don’t need one to make a good baked brie–but it was kind of game changing. If your dish doesn’t have a lid I would recommend covering yours in tin foil, this will help trap the heat and ensure the cheese melts evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the brie is soft and gooey, but be careful not to overbake it—nobody wants a rubbery cheese experience!

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, remove the brie from the oven and let it cool for a minute before serving. This brief cooling period will help prevent any eager guests from burning their mouths on the molten cheese! Serve the CBB with your choice of sliced baguette, crackers, or fresh fruit, and watch as your friends dive in for a taste.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

What I love most about this Classic Baked Brie recipe is its simplicity. It requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. The balance of sweet and savory, combined with the aromatic rosemary, creates a delightful experience that pairs wonderfully with a glass of wine or your favorite beverage.

Additionally, this recipe is highly adaptable. Feel free to experiment with different types of jams or honey based on your preferences. If you’re in the mood for a savory twist, you could even try adding caramelized onions or a sprinkle of nuts. However, I always find myself returning to the classic combination of red pepper jelly and honey—it’s just too good to resist! If you need some further inspiration be sure to join our email list or follow us on facebook, we have sooo many baked brie recipes coming to you this season! 

Perfect for Any Occasion

Over the years, I’ve made this Classic Baked Brie for all sorts of gatherings. From casual game nights to holiday parties, it’s become my signature dish. I love how it brings people together, sparking conversation and laughter as everyone gathers around to enjoy this warm, cheesy delight.

And let’s not forget the leftovers! If you happen to have any brie left after your gathering (which is rare), it makes for an indulgent treat the next day. Simply reheat it in the oven for a few minutes, and it’s just as delicious as the first time.

A Few Tips for Success

• Choose the Right Brie: Not all brie is created equal. Opt for a high-quality cheese for the best results. Look for a brie with a soft, creamy texture and a pleasant aroma.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh rosemary adds a wonderful flavor to the dish. If you don’t have fresh rosemary on hand, consider using another herb like thyme or parsley.
• Experiment with Accompaniments: While I love serving this dish with baguette or crackers, feel free to get creative! Fresh fruit, nuts, or even vegetable sticks can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich cheese.
• Watch the Time: Keep an eye on the baking time. Every oven is different, and you want to pull the brie when it’s perfectly gooey, not overcooked.

Wrap Up

In a world filled with complex recipes and elaborate dishes, sometimes the classics are the best. My Classic Baked Brie has been my trusted companion for a decade, and it never fails to bring joy to my gatherings. With its simple preparation, delightful flavor combinations, and ability to bring people together, this dish truly embodies the spirit of hospitality.

So, whether you’re hosting friends or heading to a potluck, remember that you can’t go wrong with the CBB. It’s more than just an appetizer; it’s a warm invitation to share good food and great company. Here’s to many more delicious gatherings ahead!

Much love, 

Sidney and Thomas