Name: Baked Brie with Raspberry & Rosemary
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6-8 servings
Ingredients: 1 (8-ounce/225g) wheel Brie cheese; 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed; 1/4 cup (60g) raspberry jam or preserves; 2 sprigs fresh rosemary; 1 large egg; 1 tbsp all-purpose flour, for dusting; 2 tbsp chopped pecans or walnuts (optional); Honey, for drizzling (optional); Pinch cracked black pepper (optional)

Baked Brie Raspberry Rosemary is more than just an appetizer; it’s an experience that promises to captivate your senses from the very first bite. Imagine a symphony of flavors and textures: the luxurious, molten creaminess of warm brie, perfectly balanced by the vibrant, sweet-tart burst of fresh raspberries, and the sophisticated, aromatic embrace of fragrant rosemary. This exquisite combination transforms a simple cheese into an unforgettable culinary delight, making every gathering feel a little more special.

Originating from France, Brie has long been celebrated as a classic, sophisticated cheese, revered for its smooth texture and rich, buttery notes. However, adding sweet fruit and aromatic herbs elevates this beloved staple to an entirely new level. People adore this dish not only for its incredible taste—the gooey, savory cheese beautifully contrasted by the bright fruit and earthy herb—but also for its remarkable ease of preparation and elegant presentation. It’s an ideal choice for entertaining, yet simple enough to enjoy as a cozy indulgence on a quiet evening.

The Irresistible Allure of This Dish

I find its allure lies in its ability to deliver profound satisfaction with minimal effort. The aroma alone, as it bakes to golden perfection, is utterly intoxicating, signaling the deliciousness to come. There’s something truly magical about slicing into a perfectly golden, bubbly round of Baked Brie Raspberry Rosemary, watching the warm cheese ooze enticingly, inviting everyone to dive in. It’s a dish that embodies both comfort and sophistication, making it an absolute crowd-pleaser every single time.

Ingredients:

One 8-ounce (225g) wheel of Brie cheese: For the most luxurious experience, I recommend selecting a good quality Brie. Look for one that’s ripe but not overly runny, as this can make wrapping a bit trickier. A double or triple cream Brie will yield an incredibly gooey, decadent center.
One sheet of frozen puff pastry: Store-bought puff pastry is a lifesaver here, allowing us to create a gorgeous, flaky crust with minimal effort. Ensure it’s fully thawed according to package directions before you begin.
1/4 cup (60g) good quality raspberry jam or preserves: This provides that delightful burst of fruity sweetness and a touch of tartness that perfectly complements the rich Brie. Choose a jam with real fruit pieces for added texture and flavor.
2 sprigs of fresh rosemary: We’ll use the leaves from these. Fresh is absolutely key here; its aromatic, piney notes are essential for balancing the sweetness of the jam and the creaminess of the cheese. Avoid dried rosemary for this recipe, as its flavor profile is too intense and woody.
1 large egg: This will be whisked to create an egg wash, giving our puff pastry a beautiful golden-brown sheen and helping it crisp up.
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour: For dusting your work surface. Just a little bit helps prevent the pastry from sticking.
Optional additions:
- 2 tablespoons chopped pecans or walnuts: For an extra layer of crunch and nutty flavor.
- A drizzle of honey: If you prefer a slightly sweeter finish, a touch of honey after baking is divine.
- A pinch of cracked black pepper: For a subtle savory kick that contrasts wonderfully with the sweet and creamy elements.

Gathering Your Tools and Preparing the Workspace

Before we even think about touching that beautiful Brie, let’s ensure our kitchen is ready for action. Having all your tools and ingredients laid out and prepped makes the entire process smoother and more enjoyable. Trust me, there’s nothing worse than scrambling for a rolling pin when your pastry is perfectly thawed and ready to go!

Preheat your oven: First things first, get that oven preheating to 400°F (200°C). A properly preheated oven is crucial for achieving that perfectly puffed, golden crust on our Baked Brie Raspberry Rosemary.
Prepare your baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This simple step is a game-changer! It prevents sticking, makes cleanup a breeze, and helps regulate the baking temperature, ensuring an even cook for our delicate puff pastry.
Thaw the puff pastry: If you haven’t already, take your sheet of frozen puff pastry out of the freezer. Most brands recommend thawing at room temperature for about 30-40 minutes, or in the refrigerator overnight. You want it pliable but still cool to the touch. If it gets too warm, it becomes sticky and difficult to work with. If it’s too cold, it will crack when you try to unfold it. Patience is a virtue here!
Chop the rosemary: Strip the leaves from your fresh rosemary sprigs. Place them on a cutting board and finely chop them. We want small pieces so the aromatic flavor is distributed evenly throughout our Baked Brie Raspberry Rosemary without overpowering any single bite. Roughly 1 to 1.5 teaspoons of finely chopped rosemary should be perfect.
Prepare the egg wash: In a small bowl, crack the large egg and whisk it vigorously with a fork until the yolk and white are fully combined. This creates our shimmering egg wash, which will give the puff pastry that gorgeous golden-brown finish we’re looking for.
Clear your workspace: Lightly dust a clean, dry surface with about a tablespoon of all-purpose flour. This is where we’ll roll out our puff pastry. Ensure you have enough space to work comfortably.

Preparing the Foundation: Puff Pastry and Brie

This is where the magic really begins. We’re setting the stage for our incredible Baked Brie Raspberry Rosemary, ensuring each element is perfectly prepared for its role in this delicious appetizer.

Roll out the puff pastry: Carefully unfold your thawed puff pastry sheet onto your lightly floured surface. Using a rolling pin, gently roll it out into an approximately 10-inch by 10-inch square, or a rough circle of similar diameter, about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick. The goal is to make it slightly larger than the Brie wheel, giving us enough pastry to wrap it completely. Don’t overwork the pastry; gentle, even pressure is key to maintaining its flakiness. If your pastry starts to stick, add just a tiny bit more flour to your surface or rolling pin.
Prepare the Brie wheel: Now, let’s turn our attention to the star of the show: the Brie! Some people prefer to trim off the top rind of the Brie to allow for a gooier, more direct melt of the cheese. I personally love the slight texture and flavor of the rind, so I usually leave it on. However, if you’re aiming for maximum melt and spread, feel free to gently slice off the very top layer of rind using a sharp knife. You can also lightly score the top of the Brie in a crisscross pattern – this isn’t strictly necessary but can help the cheese melt more evenly and looks rather charming.

Layering the Flavors: Raspberry and Rosemary

This step is where we infuse our Baked Brie Raspberry Rosemary with its signature sweet, tart, and aromatic notes. The combination of raspberry and rosemary is truly a match made in culinary heaven, offering a sophisticated twist to a classic appetizer.

Spread the raspberry jam: Carefully place your prepared Brie wheel (rind-side down if you trimmed the top) in the center of your rolled-out puff pastry. Now, spoon the raspberry jam onto the top surface of the Brie. Using the back of the spoon, gently spread it out evenly over the entire top, getting close to the edges but leaving a small margin (about 1/4 inch) to prevent it from oozing out too much during wrapping. Don’t be shy with the jam, but don’t overload it either; we want a nice layer, not a mountain.
Sprinkle with fresh rosemary: Take your finely chopped fresh rosemary and generously sprinkle it over the raspberry jam. Try to distribute it as evenly as possible. The fragrant aroma of the rosemary will immediately begin to mingle with the sweet jam, creating an enticing preview of the flavors to come. If you’re using optional chopped nuts, this would be the perfect time to sprinkle them over the jam and rosemary layer as well.

The Art of Enclosing: Wrapping the Brie

This is arguably the most crucial step for ensuring our Baked Brie Raspberry Rosemary turns out beautifully. A well-sealed package prevents leaks and ensures a perfectly golden, puffed crust.

Fold the puff pastry: Now for the wrapping! This part is like wrapping a present. Gently bring one corner of the puff pastry up and over the Brie, pressing it lightly onto the side of the cheese. Then, bring up the opposite corner, overlapping the first corner slightly, and press it down. Continue this process, bringing up each side or corner of the puff pastry, folding it over the top of the Brie, and pressing the seams together to seal. You want to create a neat, secure parcel around the cheese.
Ensure a tight seal: Once you’ve brought all the pastry up, you’ll have some excess pastry gathered at the top. Gently pinch and press all the seams together, ensuring there are no gaps or open areas where the cheese or jam could leak out during baking. You can twist the top slightly to create a rustic, decorative “bun” or simply press it flat. If there’s a lot of excess pastry, you can trim some of it away, but generally, I find it just adds to the charm and crispiness.
Create a decorative finish (optional): For an extra touch of elegance, you can use any leftover pastry scraps to cut out small shapes (like leaves or braids) and attach them to the top of your wrapped Brie. Simply brush the back of the decoration with a tiny bit of egg wash before pressing it onto the main pastry. You can also lightly score the top of the pastry with a sharp knife (be careful not to cut all the way through) in a crisscross or spiral pattern for a lovely presentation.
Apply the egg wash: Carefully transfer your wrapped Brie onto the prepared parchment-lined baking sheet. Using a pastry brush, gently and evenly brush the entire surface of the puff pastry with your whisked egg wash. This layer isn’t just for aesthetics; it helps the pastry brown beautifully and creates a slightly crispier crust. Make sure to get into all the nooks and crannies for an even golden color.

Baking to Golden Perfection

The anticipation builds here! Watching the puff pastry expand and turn golden brown is one of the most satisfying parts of preparing this Baked Brie Raspberry Rosemary.

Bake the Brie: Place the baking sheet with your beautifully wrapped Brie into your preheated 400°F (200°C) oven. Bake for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until the puff pastry is gorgeously golden brown and dramatically puffed up. The exact baking time can vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on it. You’re looking for that deep, rich golden hue and a visibly crisp crust.
Rotate for even baking: Around the 10-12 minute mark, I often rotate the baking sheet 180 degrees. This helps ensure that the pastry bakes evenly on all sides, preventing one side from becoming too dark while the other remains pale.
Check for doneness: You’ll know your Baked Brie Raspberry Rosemary is ready when the pastry looks deeply golden and inviting, and you might even see a tiny bit of the melted cheese or jam peeking out if you weren’t able to get a perfect seal (don’t worry, a little ooze is charming!). The puff pastry should sound hollow when lightly tapped.
The crucial resting period: Once baked, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. This next step is incredibly important, so resist the urge to cut into it immediately! Let the Baked Brie Raspberry Rosemary rest on the baking sheet for at least 10-15 minutes before transferring it or serving. This resting time allows the molten cheese inside to set up just enough so that it doesn’t all gush out the moment you slice into it. It also allows the pastry to firm up slightly, preventing it from becoming soggy. Trust me, it’s worth the wait for that perfect gooey-but-not-liquid center.

Serving Your Delicious Baked Brie Raspberry Rosemary

The moment has arrived! Serving this elegant appetizer is almost as much fun as making it. The presentation of the warm, golden puff pastry, with the promise of melty cheese and vibrant jam inside, is simply irresistible.

Transfer to a serving platter: Gently slide the parchment paper with the Baked Brie Raspberry Rosemary onto a festive serving platter or a wooden cutting board. This dish is designed for sharing and looks stunning as the centerpiece of an appetizer spread.
Offer accompaniments: While our Baked Brie Raspberry Rosemary is perfectly delicious on its own, it truly shines when served with an array of complementary textures and flavors. I love offering a variety of options:
- Crisp crackers: Think water crackers, artisanal flatbread crackers, or a selection of seeded crackers.
- Crusty bread: Sliced baguette or rustic country bread are excellent for scooping up the melted cheese and jam.
- Fresh fruit: Sliced apples, pears, grapes, or even extra fresh raspberries add a refreshing counterpoint and beautiful color to the platter.
- Honey: If you didn’t add it before baking, a final drizzle of honey over the top just before serving adds another layer of sweetness and shine.
- A sprig of fresh rosemary: Garnish the platter with a fresh sprig of rosemary for a final touch of visual appeal and aromatic charm.
Dig in and enjoy!: Encourage your guests to use spreaders or small knives to cut into the pastry, revealing the warm, gooey Brie and luscious raspberry-rosemary filling. Each bite is a delightful combination of flaky pastry, creamy cheese, sweet fruit, and fragrant herbs. This dish is best enjoyed warm, so gather everyone around and savor the moment!

Tips for a Flawless Baked Brie Raspberry Rosemary

Achieving perfection with your Baked Brie Raspberry Rosemary is easier than you think, but a few key pointers can elevate it from good to absolutely unforgettable.

Don’t overwork the pastry: When rolling out the puff pastry, handle it gently. Overworking the dough can develop the gluten, making it tough rather than flaky. Keep it cool and use minimal flour.
Seal those edges: The most common issue with baked Brie is leakage. Take extra time to firmly pinch and seal all the seams of the puff pastry. Think of it as creating a fortress for your delicious Brie and jam.
Quality ingredients matter: Because this recipe has so few components, the quality of each ingredient truly shines. Invest in a good Brie, a flavorful raspberry jam, and fresh, vibrant rosemary for the best results.
Patience with the rest: I know it’s hard to wait, but allowing the baked Brie to rest for 10-15 minutes is critical. It gives the cheese a chance to stabilize slightly, preventing it from running everywhere when you cut into it, and helps the pastry maintain its crispness.
Make ahead option: You can assemble the Wrapped Brie Raspberry Rosemary up to a few hours in advance, cover it loosely with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it will be going into the oven cold.
Reheating: If you happen to have any leftovers (a rare occurrence!), you can gently reheat individual slices in a toaster oven or a regular oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and the cheese is soft again.

Creative Variations for Your Baked Brie Raspberry Rosemary

While the classic Baked Brie Raspberry Rosemary is a star in its own right, don’t be afraid to experiment with other flavor combinations. The beauty of this recipe is its versatility!

Sweet & Spicy Jam: Instead of plain raspberry jam, try a raspberry chipotle jam for a delightful kick, or even a fig jam for a richer, more earthy sweetness. Apricot or cherry preserves also work wonderfully.
Nutty Crunch: Before wrapping, sprinkle a layer of finely chopped pecans, walnuts, or even pistachios over the jam and rosemary for an added layer of texture and nutty flavor. Toasting the nuts lightly beforehand will enhance their aroma.
Herbal Alternatives: If rosemary isn’t your favorite, consider other fresh herbs. Thyme offers a more delicate, earthy note, while a hint of finely chopped basil could be surprisingly refreshing, especially with a strawberry or apricot jam.
Citrus Zest: A tiny bit of orange or lemon zest grated over the jam layer can brighten the entire dish and add another dimension of flavor.
Sweet & Savory Swirl: For a true gourmet experience, gently swirl a tablespoon of good quality balsamic glaze over the jam before sprinkling the rosemary. The tartness and depth of the balsamic pair incredibly well with the Brie.
Honeyed Goodness: Drizzle a teaspoon of local honey directly onto the Brie before adding the jam for an extra layer of sweetness that caramelizes slightly during baking.
Spiced Brie: A very subtle sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg (just a pinch!) could add a cozy, autumnal feel to your Baked Brie Raspberry Rosemary, especially if paired with apple or pear slices for serving.

No matter which variation you choose, remember that the core components of flaky pastry, gooey Brie, and a delightful filling will always create a show-stopping appetizer that’s perfect for any gathering. Happy baking!

Conclusion:

Well, my friends, we’ve reached the delicious culmination of our journey together, and I truly hope you’re as excited as I am about the prospect of creating this masterpiece in your own kitchen. After all we’ve discussed, from the simple assembly to the magical transformation in the oven, it’s clear why this recipe isn’t just another dish; it’s an experience waiting to unfold.

Why You Absolutely Must Try This!

There’s a unique charm to a recipe that manages to be both incredibly simple to execute and profoundly impressive to serve, and our Baked Brie Raspberry Rosemary perfectly embodies this balance. Think about it: a creamy, dreamy brie, molten and luscious, cradling the vibrant sweetness and subtle tartness of raspberries, all uplifted by the unexpected, aromatic whisper of fresh rosemary. It’s a symphony of flavors and textures that tantalizes the palate in the most delightful way. This isn’t just an appetizer; it’s a conversation starter, a comforting indulgence, and a testament to how a few high-quality ingredients can come together to create something truly extraordinary. Whether you’re hosting a sophisticated dinner party, enjoying a quiet evening in, or looking for that perfect dish to bring to a potluck, this recipe delivers on all fronts. It’s the kind of dish that makes people ask for the recipe, not because it seems complicated, but because it tastes so incredibly good and looks so effortlessly elegant. The golden, slightly caramelized crust of the brie, contrasting with the jewel-toned fruit, makes for a visual feast even before the first bite. Every aspect of this dish, from its enticing aroma filling your kitchen to its warm, gooey texture, is designed to bring joy and a touch of gourmet flair to any occasion. You’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again, not just for its deliciousness, but for its sheer reliability in impressing guests and satisfying cravings. It’s a comforting yet sophisticated treat, perfect for bridging the gap between a casual snack and a more formal starter. The combination of sweet, savory, and aromatic notes ensures that every bite is complex and utterly satisfying, leaving a lasting impression that transcends mere hunger.

Elevate Your Serving Experience: Perfect Pairings and Creative Twists

Now, let’s talk about taking your Baked Brie Raspberry Rosemary to the next level. While it’s utterly divine on its own, the right accompaniments can truly elevate the experience. Imagine serving generous dollops of this warm, gooey brie onto an array of crisp crackers – think delicate water crackers, hearty artisan crisps with seeds, or even savory pita chips. To add another layer of texture and freshness, consider pairing it with thinly sliced apples, crisp pear wedges, or juicy grapes, whose natural sweetness and acidity provide a wonderful counterpoint to the rich cheese. Toasted baguette slices or rustic, crusty bread are also fantastic for scooping up every last bit of that molten goodness. For an extra touch of sophistication, a sprinkle of candied pecans or walnuts can add a delightful crunch and nutty depth. If you’re feeling adventurous, don’t hesitate to experiment with the fruit and herb combinations! While raspberries and rosemary are a match made in heaven, consider a variation using fig jam and fresh thyme for a different aromatic profile, or cranberry sauce with a hint of orange zest during the holiday season. A tiny drizzle of high-quality local honey or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt just before serving can also enhance the flavors, bringing out new dimensions in the brie and fruit. For those who love to entertain, you could even create individual mini baked brie wheels using smaller brie rounds for a personalized touch, adjusting baking time accordingly. Think about a glass of chilled sparkling wine, a crisp rosé, or even a light-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir to complement the flavors beautifully. For non-alcoholic options, a refreshing sparkling cider or an herbal iced tea would be equally delightful. The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its inherent deliciousness but also in its incredible versatility, allowing you to tailor it to your personal taste and the occasion at hand. Don’t be afraid to get creative; this recipe is a fantastic canvas for your culinary imagination!

Your Turn to Create and Share!

So, there you have it. My heartfelt encouragement for you to dive headfirst into making this exceptional recipe. I promise you, the joy of pulling that golden, bubbling brie from the oven, with its sweet and herbaceous aroma filling your kitchen, is a truly rewarding experience. This isn’t just a recipe; it’s an invitation to create memories, to share delicious moments with loved ones, and to discover the simple pleasure of an appetizer that truly shines. I can’t wait to hear about your culinary adventures! Please, when you try this recipe, don’t keep it a secret. Share your experiences, your triumphs, and any brilliant variations you come up with. Did you use a different jam? A unique herb? Perhaps a special type of cracker? Your insights and creativity are incredibly valuable to our community. Snap a photo, tell us about your serving suggestions, and let us know how your guests reacted. Your feedback not only inspires me but also helps countless other home cooks who are looking for that next perfect dish. So, gather your ingredients, set aside a little time, and prepare to be utterly charmed by the magic of this delightful creation. Happy cooking, and I eagerly await your stories!