This Pear & Walnut Baked Brie is a delightfully simple appetizer that combines creamy, melty brie with sweet pears and crunchy walnuts.
Rich in protein and healthy fats, it’s both satisfying and nourishing.
Quick to prepare and perfect for entertaining or everyday indulgence, this fiber-friendly, low-carb treat pairs beautifully with fresh herbs and crisp crostini.
Pear & Walnut Baked Brie
Equipment
- 1 small baking sheet or baking dish
- Parchment paper
- 1 Mixing Bowl
- Spoon or spatula
- Knife for chopping pears
- Serving plate or board
Ingredients
- 250 –350 g wheel of brie unwrapped
- 1 ripe pear chopped
- 2 –3 tbsp liquid honey
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
- Pinch of salt
- Fresh rosemary for garnish
- Crostini or crackers for serving
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s at the perfect temperature for gently warming the brie without overcooking. Line a small baking sheet or baking dish with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes transferring the baked brie to a serving platter effortless. Make sure the parchment is smooth and fits the dish comfortably, leaving a little overhang for easy lifting.
- Position the Brie Wheel: Place the unwrapped brie wheel onto the prepared parchment-lined baking sheet or dish. Center it carefully so it has space around the edges, allowing heat to circulate evenly. If your brie has a slightly uneven top, don’t worry—this won’t affect the flavor or texture.
- Prepare Pear and Walnut Mixture: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the chopped ripe pear, 1/4 cup of chopped walnuts, and a pinch of salt. Add 2 tablespoons of liquid honey to start. Gently fold the ingredients together with a spoon until the pears are coated and the walnuts are evenly distributed. Taste the mixture; if you prefer a sweeter topping, gradually stir in the remaining tablespoon of honey. This ensures a perfectly balanced sweetness without overwhelming the natural flavor of the brie.
- Top the Brie Wheel: Spoon the pear and walnut mixture evenly over the top of the brie wheel, spreading it gently to cover the surface. Take care not to press down too firmly, as you want the topping to sit lightly on the cheese. This layering will allow the heat to warm the brie underneath while caramelizing the pear topping slightly for extra flavor.
- Bake the Brie: Place the baking sheet or dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 12–15 minutes, keeping a close eye on the brie. You’re aiming for the cheese to become soft and melty, not fully liquefied or browned. The pears should release their juices slightly, mingling with the honey and walnuts for a glossy, flavorful topping.
- Prepare Serving Plate: While the brie bakes, prepare your serving plate or board. If transferring from parchment paper, it’s best to leave the brie on the parchment while it rests for a few minutes—this prevents breaking or sticking. Arrange crostini or crackers around the plate so everything is ready for presentation.
- Transfer Brie Carefully: Once baked, remove the brie from the oven and let it sit for about 3–5 minutes. This brief resting period allows the cheese to firm up slightly, making it easier to move. Using the parchment paper, gently lift the brie and transfer it to the serving plate or board.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Add fresh rosemary sprigs around the brie for a fragrant, elegant touch. The herb adds a subtle piney aroma that complements the sweetness of the pears and the richness of the cheese. You can also lightly sprinkle extra chopped walnuts if desired.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the baked brie immediately while it’s still warm and melty. Pair with crostini, crackers, or even thin slices of fresh baguette. Encourage guests to scoop the cheese and topping together for the perfect combination of creamy, sweet, and crunchy flavors. For extra indulgence, drizzle a little more honey over the top just before serving.
Notes
- Use a ripe but firm pear to ensure it holds its shape during baking.
- Always bake the brie on parchment paper—this makes transferring easier and prevents sticking.
- Adjust honey according to your desired sweetness; start with 2 tablespoons and add more if needed.
- Let the baked brie rest for 3–5 minutes before serving to prevent spilling or breaking.
- Serve with sturdy crostini or crackers to scoop the warm, gooey cheese without tearing.
Chef’s Secrets for Perfect Brie
To achieve the ultimate baked brie, focus on balance and timing.
Selecting a ripe pear with slight firmness ensures it softens without turning mushy.
Chopping walnuts evenly allows for consistent crunch in every bite.
When adding honey, taste as you go to create a flavor profile that complements, rather than overwhelms, the cheese.
Baking just until the brie is soft and melty—without overcooking—preserves its creamy texture.
Finally, letting the brie rest briefly before serving helps maintain its structure and presentation.
Serving Suggestions for Elegant Presentation
This baked brie is versatile and visually impressive.
Serve it on a wooden board with a scattering of extra walnuts and fresh rosemary for a rustic, festive look.
Pair it with crostini, crackers, or thin baguette slices for easy scooping.
For added variety, include fresh fruits like grapes or figs on the side.
Drizzling a little extra honey just before serving adds a glossy, sweet finish that elevates both flavor and presentation.
Storage Tips to Keep Fresh
Baked brie is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored carefully.
Allow the brie to cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container.
Refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5–7 minutes to soften the cheese without causing it to fully melt or separate.
Avoid microwaving directly, as it can become unevenly heated and lose its creamy texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pear and walnut topping ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Assemble the brie just before baking for best results.
This ensures the cheese remains creamy and the pears don’t release too much juice before heating.
2. What type of brie is best for baking?
Choose a soft, creamy brie wheel with a white rind. Avoid ultra-soft triple cream brie, which may melt too quickly, or very firm brie, which won’t soften adequately during baking.
3. Can I use other nuts or fruits?
Absolutely! Pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts work well as substitutes for walnuts. For fruit, figs, apples, or cranberries can be used for a seasonal twist.
Just ensure fruits are chopped small enough to heat evenly on the brie.
4. How do I prevent the cheese from leaking?
Baking on parchment paper helps contain any overflow. Avoid overfilling with toppings, and let the brie rest for a few minutes after baking. This allows the cheese to firm up slightly before serving.
5. Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?
Yes, use a plant-based brie alternative and drizzle with maple syrup instead of honey.
The texture and flavor may vary slightly, but it will still offer a creamy, indulgent experience suitable for vegan diets.
