There’s something about a gooey, golden Holiday Party Brie Bake that makes everyone hover near the appetizer table. It’s warm, buttery, and just fancy enough to make you feel like you’ve got it all together. Whether you’re hosting Christmas Eve appetizers or heading to a Christmas potluck, this baked brie is your new holiday hero. You can make it ahead, pop it in the oven right before guests arrive, and it’ll steal the show every single time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s the perfect make ahead Christmas appetizer, meaning less stress when guests arrive.
- Only a few ingredients, but it tastes elegant and rich.
- Pairs perfectly with wine, cider, or sparkling water.
- Warm, melty, and ideal for cozy holiday gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Holiday Party Brie Bake brings something special, and you probably already have most of them on hand.
- 1 wheel of Brie (8 oz) : creamy and mild, it becomes perfectly gooey when baked.
- 1 sheet puff pastry : gives that beautiful golden crust and flaky texture.
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup – adds sweetness that balances the rich cheese.
- ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts : brings crunch and a toasty flavor.
- 1 egg, beaten : for brushing, so the crust bakes up shiny and golden.
- Optional toppings: a spoonful of cranberry sauce or a sprig of rosemary for that Christmas touch.
Step by Step Instructions
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a small baking sheet with parchment paper so nothing sticks later.
Step 2
Lay out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Place the Brie wheel in the center. Drizzle honey (or maple syrup) over the top and sprinkle with chopped nuts.
Step 3
Fold the puff pastry over the cheese, sealing all edges tightly. Flip it seam-side down onto the baking sheet.
Step 4
Brush the top with the beaten egg to help it turn that irresistible golden color. If you’d like, cut out small pastry stars to decorate the top.
Step 5
Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown. Let it rest for about 10 minutes before cutting in this keeps the melted cheese from spilling out too quickly.
Helpful Tips & Variations
- If you’re making Christmas appetizers easy, prepare the brie a day ahead and refrigerate it unbaked. Just bake right before serving.
- Top with a spoonful of cranberry or fig jam for a festive flavor twist.
- Swap nuts for dried cranberries if you prefer a nut-free version.
- Serve it alongside Grinch Fruit Sticks or Perfect Christmas Sausage Rolls for a complete holiday spread.
Serving & Storage
This Holiday Party Brie Bake shines as part of a Christmas appetizers party. Serve it warm on a wooden board with crackers, apple slices, or toasted baguette. It’s beautiful enough for the center of your appetizer table and cozy enough for a quiet night by the tree.
If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F until warm again—microwaving can make the pastry soggy.
Holiday Party Brie Bake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a small baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Lay out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Place the Brie in the center. Drizzle with honey or maple syrup and sprinkle chopped nuts over the top.
- Fold the puff pastry over the cheese, sealing the edges. Flip seam-side down onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Brush the top with beaten egg. Optionally, decorate with small pastry cut-outs.
- Bake for 25 minutes until golden brown. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Prepare ahead and refrigerate unbaked up to 24 hours.
- Serve with crackers, apple slices, or toasted baguette.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 2 days and reheated in the oven at 350°F.
FAQs
Can I make this brie bake ahead of time?
Yes! This is one of the best make ahead Christmas appetizers. Assemble it fully, wrap it in plastic, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake it straight from the fridge when guests arrive. It saves time and still tastes freshly made.
What can I serve with baked brie?
Try pairing it with crackers, sliced pears, or even crusty bread. For a holiday board, include Pull Apart Christmas Tree Bread and other holiday appetizers easy enough to share. The mix of sweet, salty, and crunchy textures will wow everyone.
Can I use brie without puff pastry?
Absolutely. Simply bake the brie with toppings in a small dish until melted. It’s an easy twist on Christmas recipes appetizers that works if you’re short on time or want something lighter.
How long should I bake brie for a Christmas potluck?
If you’re taking this to a Christmas potluck, bake it for about 20 to 25 minutes right before leaving, then wrap it in foil to keep warm. It’s still gooey and delicious when you arrive.
What toppings work best for Christmas Eve appetizers?
Try a mix of cranberry sauce, toasted pecans, and a drizzle of honey. These flavors feel festive and fit perfectly with your other Christmas Eve appetizers or best Christmas appetizers list.
Final Thoughts from Ama
There’s something magical about pulling a golden brie bake out of the oven while snow (or sea mist, in my case) settles outside. The smell alone feels like a celebration. This Holiday Party Brie Bake is my go-to when I want something easy but impressive, a little sweet and a little savory, and full of that “gather round” energy we crave during the holidays. Remember, good food doesn’t have to be complicated to be special. Simple food, big heart.