Baked Brie with Roasted Plums and Thyme

Warm, gooey, and irresistibly elegant, Baked Brie with Roasted Plums and Thyme is the ultimate appetizer that feels both rustic and refined. The creamy brie melts into luscious perfection, while roasted plums bring sweet-tart juiciness and fresh thyme adds a savory, herbal note. Served with crusty bread or crisp crackers, this dish strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and sophistication—ideal for holiday gatherings, dinner parties, or a cozy night in.

Behind the Recipe

This dish was born from my love of combining sweet fruit with creamy cheese. I first tried baked brie with figs and honey years ago, and it completely changed how I thought about cheese boards. Later, when plums were in season, I roasted a batch and spooned them over warm brie. The result was magical—the sharpness of the fruit balanced the richness of the cheese, and thyme added just the right touch of earthiness. Now, it’s a recipe I return to every autumn and winter.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Baked brie originated in French cuisine, where creamy cheeses are often paired with fruit and nuts. Brie itself is a soft cow’s milk cheese from the Brie region of France, beloved for its velvety texture and buttery flavor. While fruit-topped brie is a more modern twist, the concept of pairing cheese with fruit goes back centuries. Roasting plums concentrates their sweetness and brings out deep jewel-toned colors, making them a natural partner for melty brie.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This baked brie is as practical as it is elegant:

Elegant Presentation: A showstopping centerpiece for gatherings.

Flavor Balance: Sweet, savory, creamy, and tangy in one bite.

Easy to Make: Just a few steps, ready in under 30 minutes.

Seasonal: Highlights fresh plums when in season.

Customizable: Try with peaches, cherries, or pears.

Crowd-Pleasing: Cheese lovers and sweet-tooth fans unite.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Roast plums ahead and assemble when ready to serve.

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Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Roast plums until caramelized for maximum flavor.
• Bake brie in parchment or a small dish to catch oozing cheese.
• Let brie rest 5 minutes after baking for the perfect gooey texture.
• Use fresh thyme—it’s milder and more aromatic than dried.
• Serve with both bread and crackers for dipping variety.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Baking Dish or Sheet Pan: For roasting plums and baking brie.
Parchment Paper: Keeps melted cheese from sticking.
Mixing Bowl: For tossing plums with seasoning.
Sharp Knife: To cut plums into wedges.
Serving Board: For a beautiful presentation.

Ingredients in Baked Brie with Roasted Plums and Thyme

1. Brie Wheel: 1 (8 oz) Creamy centerpiece of the dish.
2. Plums: 3–4, ripe but firm Provide sweet-tart roasted topping.
3. Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon Helps caramelize plums.
4. Honey or Maple Syrup: 1 tablespoon Adds sweetness and gloss.
5. Fresh Thyme: 2 teaspoons, plus sprigs for garnish Adds savory herbal notes.
6. Salt: Pinch Balances flavors.
7. Black Pepper: Pinch Adds subtle spice.
8. Crusty Bread or Crackers: For serving Perfect dippers for gooey cheese.

Ingredient Substitutions

Brie: Use Camembert for a similar creamy texture.
Plums: Substitute with peaches, nectarines, or cherries.
Honey: Maple syrup or agave for a different sweetness.
Thyme: Fresh rosemary or basil.

Ingredient Spotlight

Brie: Known for its soft, creamy interior and edible rind, brie melts beautifully, making it ideal for baking.

Plums: Roasting deepens their natural sweetness and brings out a syrupy texture that contrasts perfectly with brie.

Instructions for Making Baked Brie with Roasted Plums and Thyme

1. Preheat Your Equipment:
   Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare Plums:
   Slice plums into wedges. Toss with olive oil, honey, thyme, salt, and pepper. Spread on baking sheet.
3. Roast Plums:
   Roast for 15–20 minutes until softened and caramelized. Set aside.
4. Prepare Brie:
   Place brie wheel on parchment-lined baking dish. Bake for 12–15 minutes until soft but not collapsing.
5. Assemble the Dish:
   Spoon roasted plums over baked brie.
6. Finishing Touches:
   Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs and an extra drizzle of honey if desired.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   Serve immediately with bread or crackers for dipping.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

The magic lies in the contrast—creamy, buttery brie meets juicy, caramelized plums and earthy thyme. Each bite is silky, tangy, sweet, and savory.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

• Score the top rind of brie in a crisscross pattern for easier dipping.
• Add a splash of balsamic vinegar to plums before roasting for depth.
• Use a small cast-iron skillet for rustic presentation.

What to Avoid

• Don’t overbake brie—it will burst and lose shape.
• Avoid overripe plums—they’ll turn mushy when roasted.
• Don’t skip parchment—the melted cheese can get messy.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6–8
Calories per serving: 190
Note: Approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

• Roast plums up to 2 days ahead and store in fridge.
• Assemble and bake brie just before serving for best results.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated, but texture won’t be the same.

How to Serve Baked Brie with Roasted Plums

Serve on a wooden board with bread, crackers, or even crostini. Pair with a glass of crisp white wine or sparkling cider.

Creative Leftover Transformations

• Brie Toasts: Spread on toasted bread with leftover plums.
• Savory Crepes: Use as a filling with greens.
• Salad Topping: Spoon cold leftovers over arugula.

Additional Tips

• Add chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch.
• Garnish with edible flowers for a dramatic finish.
• Use mini brie wheels for individual servings.

Make It a Showstopper

Serve brie on a rustic wooden board surrounded by grapes, nuts, and extra bread. Scatter fresh thyme sprigs for elegance.

Variations to Try

• Balsamic Brie: Add balsamic glaze over plums.
• Nut-Crusted Brie: Sprinkle nuts over brie before baking.
• Berry Brie: Use roasted blackberries or blueberries instead of plums.
• Savory Brie: Add caramelized onions and garlic with thyme.
• Holiday Brie: Use cranberries for a festive twist.

FAQ’s

Q1. Can I bake brie in puff pastry?

Yes, but this recipe highlights brie without pastry.

Q2. Do I need to remove the rind?

No, the rind is edible and keeps the cheese together.

Q3. Can I use dried thyme?

Yes, but use less—about 1/2 teaspoon.

Q4. What kind of plums are best?

Firm, ripe plums that hold shape when roasted.

Q5. Can I use frozen plums?

Yes, thaw first and pat dry.

Q6. How do I know when brie is ready?

Press gently—it should feel soft but not collapsed.

Q7. Can I reheat leftovers?

Yes, but texture won’t be as creamy.

Q8. Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, just serve with GF crackers or bread.

Q9. Can I add herbs to plums?

Yes, rosemary and sage pair beautifully.

Q10. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, bake two wheels side by side.

Conclusion

Baked Brie with Roasted Plums and Thyme is a stunning appetizer that delivers elegance with ease. With creamy cheese, sweet-tart plums, and fresh thyme, it’s a dish that feels both comforting and sophisticated. Trust me, this recipe will wow your guests and become a go-to for gatherings, holidays, and cozy nights alike.

Watch How To Make Baked Brie with Roasted Plums and Thyme