Baked Brie with Strawberry Preserves

Name: Baked Brie with Strawberry Preserves
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: Serves 6
Ingredients: 1 wheel of Brie cheese (about 8 ounces); 1/2 cup strawberry preserves; 1 tablespoon sliced almonds (optional); 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (optional); Assorted crackers and fresh fruits for serving

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love serving Baked Brie with Strawberry Preserves at gatherings—it’s a crowd-pleaser that never fails to impress. The creamy, melt-in-your-mouth Brie pairs perfectly with the sweet, tangy strawberry preserves, elevating the flavors to a whole new level. This dish is simple to prepare, yet it brings an element of sophistication to any table. Whether for an appetizer or a special occasion, this recipe is one I return to time and time again, and I'm excited to share it with you!

Created by

Hallie Foster

Last updated on 2026-01-10T01:01:15.195Z

When I first tried Baked Brie with Strawberry Preserves, I couldn’t believe how deliciously simple it was. The melty Brie enveloped in sweet strawberry goodness reminded me of cozy evenings with friends, sharing stories over great food. One crucial tip is to ensure your Brie is at room temperature before baking—it enhances the creaminess significantly!

I often experiment with different toppings, but the classic strawberry preserves always stand out. They add a lovely contrast to the rich cheese. If you want to impress your guests, serve it with a variety of crackers and fresh fruits.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy Brie that melts beautifully
Sweet and tangy strawberry preserves
Perfect for parties or cozy nights in

      

Choosing the Right Brie

Selecting the right Brie cheese is essential for achieving the best flavor and texture in this dish. I recommend using a high-quality, creamy Brie that has a white, bloomy rind. This will melt beautifully and provide that rich, buttery taste that pairs perfectly with the strawberry preserves. Look for Brie labeled as 'double cream' for an even softer, more luxurious outcome. If you can’t find Brie, Camembert can serve as a delicious alternative, although it has a stronger flavor.

When it comes to the cheese's ripeness, a wheel that is slightly overripe offers a more spreadable consistency, enhancing the overall experience. If your Brie is at its prime, it will be firm yet give slightly when pressed. Avoid using over-dry or crumbly Brie as it won't achieve the gooey texture we aim for and could lead to a less satisfying melting experience.

Enhancing Flavor with Toppings

While the strawberry preserves are the star of the show, feel free to customize the flavors to suit your taste or the season. The optional sliced almonds not only add a delightful crunch but also a subtle nutty flavor that complements the Brie. Toasting the almonds before sprinkling them can enhance their flavor even further, making them more aromatic and appealing. I love taking this step when I have the time, but it's not necessary for a delicious outcome.

Fresh thyme is another excellent addition; it provides an herbal note that cuts through the richness of the cheese. If you don’t have thyme, consider using rosemary or even a sprinkle of nutmeg for a warm, fragrant touch. Experiment with different combinations, such as cranberry or fig preserves, to discover your favorite flavor profiles. These simple tweaks keep the recipe fresh and exciting every time you make it.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

To elevate your Baked Brie, think about providing an assortment of crackers, fresh fruits like sliced apples or pears, and perhaps some cured meats. This variety not only balances the richness of the Brie but also creates a beautiful presentation on your serving platter. Choose crackers with different textures, such as crispy and crunchy, to add depth. I even like to include a few sweet and salty options, complementing the preserves' flavors.

If you're preparing this recipe for a gathering, consider setting up a tasting station. This allows your guests to explore pairing combinations, whether it’s a slice of Brie with a dollop of preserves and a piece of fruit or a cracker topped with the whole ensemble. It makes for an interactive and engaging experience. Baked Brie also holds up well if prepared ahead of time; just reheat briefly before serving to maintain its melty goodness.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make an impressive appetizer:

Ingredients

1 wheel of Brie cheese (about 8 ounces)
1/2 cup strawberry preserves
1 tablespoon sliced almonds (optional)
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (optional)
Assorted crackers and fresh fruits for serving

Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for optimal melting and flavor.

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your Baked Brie:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Prepare the Brie

Place the Brie on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Using a sharp knife, score the top of the cheese in a crisscross pattern.

Add Preserves

Spread the strawberry preserves evenly over the scored Brie. If desired, sprinkle the sliced almonds and thyme on top for added flavor.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is soft and gooey.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before transferring to a serving platter. Serve warm with assorted crackers and fresh fruits.

Enjoy this delightful dish warm, and watch as it disappears in no time!

Pro Tips

For a fun twist, you can swap out the strawberry preserves for raspberry or fig. Additionally, try adding a drizzle of honey for an extra touch of sweetness.

Make-Ahead Tips

This Baked Brie can be partially prepared ahead of time, making it an excellent choice for entertaining. You can score the Brie and spread the strawberry preserves on top, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, simply remove it from the fridge and bake it directly—no need to let it come to room temperature first. Just keep in mind that it might take a minute or two longer to melt in the oven.

If you’re looking for a quick way to change things up during the week, try roasting a whole wheel of Brie without any toppings. Bake it until gooey, and then serve it with a drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of coarse salt for a more straightforward, yet indulgent, option.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your Brie doesn’t melt thoroughly, it may be due to baking at too low of a temperature or not long enough. Make sure your oven is preheated to 350°F (175°C) for optimal melting. Keep an eye on the cheese as it bakes and remove it from the oven once it becomes soft and gooey—this can happen in as little as 10 minutes, so be vigilant!

In some cases, the preserves can become overly runny if baked for too long. To avoid this, take the Brie out when it’s just starting to ooze and bubble at the edges. If you prefer a thicker topping, consider using a fruit compote instead of store-bought preserves, as they often have a thicker consistency that holds better under heat.

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Keep in mind that the texture of the Brie might change slightly from being reheated. To enjoy it again, gently reheat it in the oven at a low temperature—around 250°F (120°C)—for about 10 minutes or until warmed through but not overheated. This ensures it retains its creamy consistency rather than becoming rubbery.

However, I find that Baked Brie is best enjoyed fresh. The flavors meld beautifully when served right out of the oven, providing that perfect melt-in-your-mouth experience. If you anticipate having leftovers, consider reducing the Brie size or quantities of preserves to match your gathering's needs, ensuring the best possible enjoyment!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prepare the Brie and toppings ahead, but bake it just before serving for the best texture.

→ What cheeses can I substitute for Brie?

Camembert or double cream cheese can be great alternatives if you want to try something different.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven gently.

→ Can I add other toppings?

Absolutely! Consider adding nuts, dried fruits, or even a balsamic reduction for different flavor profiles.