Baked Brie with Balsamic Cherries

There’s something truly special about hosting friends and family, and nothing brings everyone together quite like Baked Brie with Balsamic Cherries. One chilly evening last fall, I decided to surprise my guests with this indulgent treat. As the aroma of melting cheese wafted through my kitchen, I could already sense the excitement building. It’s more than just a dish; it’s a centerpiece that encourages sharing and conversation. Imagine the delight on everyone’s faces as they dip crusty bread into warm, gooey brie topped with sweet-tart cherries. It’s comfort food at its finest!

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and elegance. You don’t need to be a professional chef to impress your guests; just a little bit of love and quality ingredients. The creamy texture of the brie harmonizes perfectly with the rich flavor of the cherry jam and the tang of balsamic vinegar. As they meld together in the oven, you get a dish that not only looks stunning but tastes divine. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or just having a casual get-together, this recipe is sure to be a hit!

Moreover, this dish is incredibly versatile. Pair it with your favorite crackers, toasts, or even fresh fruit for a well-rounded appetizer. And the best part? It takes minimal effort to prepare, leaving you with plenty of time to enjoy the company around you. I can’t wait for you to try this out at your next gathering!

Ingredients Overview for Baked Brie with Balsamic Cherries

The ingredients for Baked Brie with Balsamic Cherries are simple yet impactful. Each component plays a crucial role in crafting this delightful dish. The star of the show, the brie, is creamy and rich, while the cherry jam adds a touch of sweetness. Finally, the balsamic vinegar contributes a tangy kick, making it a perfect trio.

• one 8-ounce wheel of brie: The creamy base of the dish, brie becomes wonderfully melty when baked, creating a luscious texture.
• about 1/3 heaping cup cherry jam or preserves: This sweet component enhances the flavor profile and adds a beautiful color contrast.
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar: The tangy acidity of balsamic vinegar cuts through the richness of the cheese, balancing the dish.
• bread, crackers, mini toasts, chips, etc. for serving: These accompaniments are essential for scooping up all the deliciousness!

Recipe Steps for Baked Brie with Balsamic Cherries

Making Baked Brie with Balsamic Cherries is an enjoyable process that can fill your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. Follow these simple steps to create a beautiful dish that is sure to impress. Let’s dive right in!

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F. This step is crucial as it ensures that the brie melts perfectly. While the oven heats up, line a baking sheet with a Silpat or spray it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

2. Next, take your brie and place it on a cutting board. Carefully slice off one end of the cheese, so the top is about 1/8-inch thick. This part requires a little patience, so use a sharp knife and take your time. You want to cut through the rind without damaging the rest of the cheese.

3. Once you’ve sliced the top, place the base of the brie in the center of your prepared baking sheet. Keep the cut top nearby; you’ll need it shortly.

4. In a small bowl, stir together the cherry jam and balsamic vinegar. This mixture will create a sweet and tangy topping for your Baked Brie with Balsamic Cherries. Make sure to taste it to ensure the flavors are balanced to your liking.

5. Spoon the jam mixture over the center of the brie, leaving about a 1-inch margin around the edge. This space will help prevent any overflow while baking. You want that delicious jam to stay on top!

6. Loosely place the top of the brie over the jam mixture. This will create a lovely little package that will melt into gooey perfection in the oven.

7. Now, it’s time to bake! Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and let it cook for about 10 minutes. Keep an eye on it; the cheese should be melted but not bubbling over too much. If it does, it’s okay, just make sure it doesn’t burn.

8. After 10 minutes, the brie should be perfectly melted and ready to serve. Using two large spatulas or another method that works for you, carefully transfer the cheesy delight to a serving platter.

9. Serve immediately with your choice of bread, crackers, or mini toasts. The warm brie pairs beautifully with these accompaniments, making for an irresistible appetizer.

How to Switch It Up

While I adore the classic version of Baked Brie with Balsamic Cherries, there are countless ways to make it uniquely yours. Here are some fun tips to switch it up:

• Storage: If you have leftovers, store the baked brie airtight in the refrigerator for up to one week. Just be aware that it will firm up, making it a bit less gooey.
• Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked brie before adding the jam. Just wrap it well and pop it in the freezer. When ready to serve, bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
• Pairing: This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of crackers and toasted baguette slices. You can also serve it with fresh fruits like apple slices or grapes for a refreshing contrast.
• Flavored Brie: Try using flavored brie, such as herb-infused or garlic brie, for a unique taste!
• Different Toppings: Experiment with different toppings like nuts, herbs, or even a drizzle of honey for an extra touch of sweetness.

How to Enjoy Baked Brie with Balsamic Cherries

When it comes to serving Baked Brie with Balsamic Cherries, the possibilities are as delightful as the dish itself. Here are some ideas:

• Perfect for Appetizers: This dish is a fantastic appetizer to kick off a dinner party or holiday gathering. The allure of warm brie is hard to resist.
• Pair with Seasonal Fruits: Add slices of fresh apple or pear on the side. Their crunch and sweetness complement the rich cheese beautifully.
• Ideal for Casual Gatherings: If you’re having a few friends over for game night, this Baked Brie is a simple yet impressive snack that everyone will enjoy.
• Serve with Assorted Crackers: Offering a variety of crackers, from plain to herbed, can enhance the experience and provide different textures.
• Make it a Centerpiece: Placing the Baked Brie in the center of your table encourages everyone to gather around and dig in. It creates a warm, inviting atmosphere.
• Leftover Treats: Should you have any leftovers, they can be enjoyed cold on crackers or toasted bread for a quick snack the next day.

FAQ

Conclusion

Baked Brie with Balsamic Cherries is a delightful combination of creamy, sweet, and tangy flavors that make it truly special. It’s not just a recipe; it’s a memorable experience that brings people together. So why not give it a try at your next gathering? I promise you won’t regret it!

Baked Brie with Balsamic Cherries

Indulge in the rich and creamy flavor of Baked Brie with Balsamic Cherries. This easy-to-make appetizer combines gooey brie cheese topped with sweet cherry jam and a hint of balsamic vinegar. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, you'll want to make this delightful dish tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Appetizers

Cuisine: American

Calories: 150

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 8-ounce wheel Brie The creamy base of the dish, brie becomes wonderfully melty when baked.
• 1/3 cup Cherry Jam This sweet component enhances the flavor profile and adds color contrast.
• 1 tablespoon Balsamic Vinegar The tangy acidity balances the richness of the cheese.
• Bread, Crackers, Mini Toasts, Chips These accompaniments are essential for scooping up the deliciousness.

Equipment

• Oven
• Baking Sheet
• Chef's Knife
• Mixing Bowl
• Wooden Spoon

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F. This step is crucial as it ensures that the brie melts perfectly. While the oven heats up, line a baking sheet with a Silpat or spray it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Next, take your brie and place it on a cutting board. Carefully slice off one end of the cheese, so the top is about 1/8-inch thick. This part requires a little patience, so use a sharp knife and take your time. You want to cut through the rind without damaging the rest of the cheese.
3. Once you’ve sliced the top, place the base of the brie in the center of your prepared baking sheet. Keep the cut top nearby; you’ll need it shortly.
4. In a small bowl, stir together the cherry jam and balsamic vinegar. This mixture will create a sweet and tangy topping for your Baked Brie with Balsamic Cherries. Make sure to taste it to ensure the flavors are balanced to your liking.
5. Spoon the jam mixture over the center of the brie, leaving about a 1-inch margin around the edge. This space will help prevent any overflow while baking. You want that delicious jam to stay on top!
6. Loosely place the top of the brie over the jam mixture. This will create a lovely little package that will melt into gooey perfection in the oven.
7. Now, it’s time to bake! Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and let it cook for about 10 minutes. Keep an eye on it; the cheese should be melted but not bubbling over too much. If it does, it’s okay, just make sure it doesn’t burn.
8. After 10 minutes, the brie should be perfectly melted and ready to serve. Using two large spatulas or another method that works for you, carefully transfer the cheesy delight to a serving platter.
9. Serve immediately with your choice of bread, crackers, or mini toasts. The warm brie pairs beautifully with these accompaniments, making for an irresistible appetizer.

Notes

If you have leftovers, store the baked brie airtight in the refrigerator for up to one week. Just be aware that it will firm up, making it a bit less gooey.

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Meet Jade Summer

Reliability is just as important as flavor. I am the one double checking measurements and testing temperatures. I cooked this recipe repeatedly, troubleshooting any tricky parts, so you can trust that it will turn out perfectly the very first time you try it.