Gooey Baked Brie with Fig Jam

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If you’ve never had baked brie before, this Gooey Baked Brie with Fig Jam is about to change your appetizer game forever. I first made this on a whim during a holiday gathering, not expecting it to become the star of the table—but it absolutely stole the show. Warm, creamy brie bubbling under a layer of sweet fig jam and crunchy nuts? It’s the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and rich, all in one bite.

What I love most is how deceptively simple it is. You don’t need a million ingredients or hours of prep—just good brie, quality jam, and your favorite mix of nuts or seeds. It’s an easy go-to that looks gourmet and tastes luxurious. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, setting up a cheese board, or just craving something indulgent, this recipe delivers with very little effort.

Why You’ll Love This Gooey Baked Brie with Fig Jam

This appetizer brings together textures and flavors that feel like they belong in a fine restaurant. The creamy brie melts to perfection, the fig jam adds a sweet and slightly fruity depth, and the toasted nuts and seeds provide a satisfying crunch. It’s a crowd-pleaser that takes only minutes to make and disappears even faster.

What Kind of Brie Should I Use?

A good-quality, double or triple-cream brie works best for this recipe. You want something that melts smoothly and has a rich, buttery flavor. Make sure it’s not too aged or dry. You can also use a wheel that’s already slightly ripened—it will melt beautifully in the oven.

Options for Substitutions

If fig jam isn’t your favorite, don’t worry—this recipe is super adaptable. Try apricot preserves, raspberry jam, or even a savory onion chutney for a twist. You can also swap the nuts—pecans, walnuts, almonds, pistachios, or even pepitas work well. For an extra layer of flavor, a drizzle of honey or balsamic reduction on top can really elevate the whole dish.

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Ingredients for this Gooey Baked Brie with Fig Jam

• Brie Cheese Wheel: The star of the show, creamy and rich. A small to medium-sized wheel (8 oz) is perfect for a gathering.
• Fig Jam: Adds sweetness and a subtle earthy depth. Choose a thick, high-quality fig spread for best results.
• Chopped Nuts (Pecans, Walnuts, or a Mix): Provide crunch and balance the creamy texture of the cheese.
• Pepitas (Pumpkin Seeds): Optional but great for an extra crunch and color contrast.
• Fresh Thyme (optional): A few leaves add an herbaceous note that cuts through the richness.
• Honey or Maple Syrup (optional): For drizzling and enhancing the sweetness.
• Crackers, Crostini, or Sliced Baguette: For serving, essential to scoop up all that melty goodness.

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, place your brie wheel on a small oven-safe skillet, baking dish, or parchment-lined tray. No need to remove the rind – it holds the cheese together and is completely edible.

Step 2: Add the Fig Jam Generously

Spoon a generous amount of fig jam on top of the brie, spreading it evenly to cover the top. You want enough to create a nice sweet layer, about 3–4 tablespoons depending on the size of your cheese.

Step 3: Layer on the Nuts and Seeds

Sprinkle the chopped nuts over the fig jam. Add pepitas for extra crunch and visual appeal. Press them in gently so they stay in place during baking.

Step 4: Bake Until Melty and Gooey

Place the brie in the preheated oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is soft and melty in the center. If using a skillet, you can serve it straight from the oven to table for a rustic look.

Step 5: Optional Drizzle and Garnish

Once out of the oven, you can drizzle honey or maple syrup over the top for extra gloss and sweetness. Scatter a few fresh thyme leaves for a touch of color and flavor.

Step 6: Serve Warm

Serve immediately with crackers, crostini, or toasted baguette slices. The cheese will be irresistibly gooey, so make sure your guests are ready to dive in while it’s hot.

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How Long to Prepare the Gooey Baked Brie with Fig Jam

Preparing this elegant appetizer is remarkably quick. The prep time is just about 5–10 minutes. All you need to do is gather your ingredients, assemble the brie with toppings, and pop it in the oven. There’s no chopping or complicated prep required.

The baking time ranges from 15 to 20 minutes. The goal is to get the brie nice and gooey in the center without bursting it open. Keep an eye on it during the final minutes to make sure it doesn’t overbake. The whole process takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish.

Tips for Perfect Gooey Baked Brie with Fig Jam

• Use a brie wheel that’s close to room temperature before baking—it melts more evenly.
• Keep the toppings centered so the cheese doesn’t collapse at the sides.
• Place it on parchment paper or in a small skillet for easy transfer and cleanup.
• Let it rest for 2–3 minutes after baking to allow the cheese to settle slightly.
• Serve immediately with a spreading knife or spoon for easy scooping.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overbaking: If you leave it in too long, the cheese may burst and lose its creamy texture.
• Using cold brie: This can result in uneven melting.
• Too much jam: It can overwhelm the cheese and make the dish too sweet.
• Skipping the nuts: They add needed texture—don’t leave them out unless necessary.
• Serving too late: Brie firms up as it cools; it’s best served piping hot.

What to Serve With Gooey Baked Brie with Fig Jam?

1. Crackers

A classic option—choose plain or lightly salted crackers that don’t overpower the flavor.

2. Crostini or Baguette Slices

Toasted slices of baguette add crunch and structure to each bite.

3. Apple or Pear Slices

The crisp, fresh bite of apples or pears is a perfect contrast to the warm, creamy cheese.

4. Prosciutto or Salami

Add a savory, salty protein for a more elevated appetizer board.

5. A Glass of Sparkling Wine

Something dry and bubbly cuts through the richness beautifully.

Storage Instructions

Leftovers (if any!)

Store the baked brie in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It will solidify but can be reheated gently in the oven or microwave. Use low heat to avoid separating the oils from the cheese.

Reheating

Place the leftovers in a small baking dish and warm at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes. You can also microwave it in short intervals, but the texture may not be as luxurious.

Estimated Nutrition

(Per serving, based on 6 servings)

• Calories: ~230
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Sugar: 6g
• Protein: 7g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 300mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use puff pastry to wrap the brie?

Yes! Wrapping the brie in puff pastry turns it into a “brie en croûte”. Just add 10 more minutes of baking.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can assemble it ahead, refrigerate, and bake just before serving. Bring to room temperature before baking.

What if I don’t like fig jam?

Use any jam you love—apricot, raspberry, or even a savory onion jam work beautifully.

Can I make this dairy-free?

You’ll need a dairy-free brie alternative and a plant-based jam, but yes, it’s possible.

Should I remove the rind?

No, the rind is edible and helps the cheese hold its shape during baking.

Conclusion

Gooey Baked Brie with Fig Jam is the kind of recipe that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. Whether you’re hosting a dinner, bringing a dish to a party, or just treating yourself, it’s a sophisticated yet simple choice that always delights. The combination of creamy, sweet, and crunchy textures makes it an unforgettable appetizer that’s sure to be on repeat once you try it.

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