This Apple Brie dish is a warm and gooey treat that combines sweet apples with creamy brie cheese. It’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in!
Trust me, there’s something magical about the way the cheese melts over the apples. I like to serve it with crunchy crackers, making it hard to stop munching! 🧀🍏
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: This flaky base is key for that golden crust. If you’re short on time, you could use pre-made tart shells, but for that homemade touch, puff pastry is the way to go. Just be sure to thaw it properly before using!
Brie Cheese: I love using a whole wheel of brie for this dish, but camembert works just as well. If you’re looking for a non-dairy option, try a vegan cheese that melts nicely, though the flavor will differ a bit.
Apples: Honeycrisp and Fuji are my favorites for their sweetness and texture. However, other varieties like Granny Smith for tartness or Gala for more sweetness can be substituted. Just make sure they are firm to hold up during baking.
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon adds warmth and flavor. If you want to mix it up, consider using nutmeg or allspice for a different vibe. They can bring out a unique taste in the apples!
Honey: Drizzling honey after baking adds sweetness. Maple syrup could be a great alternative if you’re looking to switch things up!
How Do I Get That Perfect, Golden Puff Pastry?
Getting the puff pastry golden and flaky is crucial for this recipe. Here are my tips:
- Preheat your oven fully before baking! This ensures the pastry starts cooking right away.
- Make sure to brush the pastry edges with the egg wash generously. This helps achieve that beautiful golden color.
- Keep an eye on it! Ovens can vary. Check it a few minutes before the suggested baking time to prevent burning.
Let it cool slightly before serving, as this allows the cheese to settle a bit and makes it easier to cut. And don’t forget those extra apple slices for dipping!
How to Make a Baked Apple Brie Galette
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
- 1 wheel of brie cheese (about 8 oz)
- 1 large apple (such as Honeycrisp or Fuji), peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (optional)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Honey (for drizzling)
- Fresh thyme sprigs (for garnish)
- Additional apple slices for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Baked Apple Brie Galette takes about 15 minutes of preparation time and 30 minutes of baking time, so you’ll be enjoying this warm treat in about 45 minutes total!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is important to ensure that the puff pastry bakes evenly and gets nice and golden.
2. Prepare the Apple Filling:
In a skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the sliced apples, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and the fresh thyme leaves (if using). Cook the apples until they are softened and caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the skillet from the heat and set the filling aside.
3. Assemble the Galette:
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry dough, if needed. Place the wheel of brie cheese right in the center of the dough. Carefully spoon the caramelized apple mixture over the brie, spreading it out evenly.
4. Fold the Pastry:
Now it’s time to create that beautiful rustic edge! Gently fold the edges of the puff pastry over the brie and apples, making pleats as you go. You want to leave the center exposed so that the brie can melt beautifully.
5. Egg Wash:
Brush the exposed edges of the dough with the beaten egg. This will give the pastry that lovely golden color when baked!
6. Bake:
Transfer your galette to the parchment-lined baking sheet and pop it into the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the pastry is golden and crispy, and the brie is beautifully melted.
7. Cool and Garnish:
Once baked, take the galette out of the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. Drizzle it with honey and sprinkle some fresh thyme on top for a lovely presentation.
8. Serve:
Slice up your warm Baked Apple Brie Galette and serve it with additional apple slices on the side for some extra crunch. Enjoy the delightful combination of warm, melted brie with the sweet, tender apples wrapped in flaky pastry!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While brie is a classic choice, you can also try camembert or a creamy goat cheese for a different flavor profile. Just ensure it melts well!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This helps retain the flakiness of the pastry.
Can I Make This Without Puff Pastry?
Yes! If you don’t have puff pastry, you can use phyllo dough for a lighter variation. Just layer the sheets and brush with butter between each layer before folding over the brie and apples.
What Should I Serve This With?
This galette is delicious on its own, but you can enhance the experience with a selection of crackers, toasted bread, or even a side of fresh salad for a touch of freshness!
