Basil Brie In Pastry(Yields: 12 Servings)
A flaky puff pastry filled with creamy Brie cheese, fragrant basil, and Parmesan, perfect for elegant appetizers or gatherings that appreciate savory, cheesy flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- Grease a cookie sheet.
- Mix grated Parmesan cheese and chopped basil.
- Cut the Brie cheese into two horizontal layers.
- Spread the basil mixture evenly over the cut surface of the cheese.
- Reassemble the cheese round.
- Roll out the thawed puff pastry into a rectangle measuring 15 x 9 inches on a lightly floured surface.
- Cut out two circles from the pastry, one 8 1/2 inches in diameter and the other 6 inches.
- Place the 8 1/2-inch pastry circle on the prepared cookie sheet.
- Put the reassembled cheese in the center of the pastry circle.
- Cover the cheese with the 6-inch pastry circle, pressing gently around the edge to seal.
- Cut decorative shapes from the remaining pastry, if desired.
- Moisten the edges with water to attach decorations.
- Bake for about 25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Cool on a wire rack for 30 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider using goat cheese instead of Brie for a tangy flavor. You can also substitute fresh basil with fresh thyme or rosemary for a different herbal note. Ensure the puff pastry is properly thawed for easy rolling. If the dough becomes too warm, refrigerate it briefly before shaping. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of Bell Pepper Dip for a delightful appetizer spread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Basil Brie In Pastry warm, garnished with extra fresh basil leaves for a pop of color. It pairs wonderfully with a light salad or can be served as part of a cheese platter alongside crackers and fruit. For a more substantial meal, consider serving it with a hearty soup or alongside vegetarian recipes like roasted vegetable skewers.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Basil Brie In Pastry can be stored in the refrigerator, tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or aluminum foil for up to three days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and the pastry is crisp again. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the pastry soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Basil Brie In Pastry(Yields: 12 Servings) contains roughly 41 calories, with 3g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the point of baking, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before baking for best results.
What can I use if I don't have puff pastry?
If you don’t have puff pastry, you can use phyllo dough, although the texture will be different. Alternatively, a homemade shortcrust pastry can work as a substitute, providing a sturdy base for the Brie.
How can I make this dish more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a layer of fruit preserves, such as fig or raspberry, on the Brie before sealing it with pastry. This adds a sweet contrast to the rich cheese and complements the basil beautifully.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).