Festive Baked Brie in Phyllo Dough

I first discovered baked brie at a holiday gathering years ago, when a friend casually placed this golden parcel of cheese on the table. Everyone rushed to it, and within minutes, the flaky layers had shattered into buttery shards while creamy brie and sweet preserves oozed out like a gift waiting to be unwrapped. I’ll admit, I was skeptical at first brie felt like a “fancy” cheese that belonged on a board, not wrapped in pastry.

Fast forward to today, and baked brie has become my festive signature dish. I’ve tested it at Friendsgiving, Christmas Eve, and even casual wine nights, and it never fails to draw a crowd. Phyllo dough, while delicate, creates an irresistible shattering crunch that puff pastry can’t quite match. And when paired with jewel-toned preserves fig, apricot, or raspberry the presentation feels almost too pretty to cut into.

Baked Brie in Phyllo Dough became extra special to me one winter when I brought it to a potluck where everyone else had prepared hearty casseroles and savory mains. My little round of golden brie was the surprise star of the evening, with people asking for the recipe between bites.

Since then, I always keep brie and phyllo sheets in the freezer, because you never know when a celebration might call for something warm, elegant, and just a bit indulgent.

Short Description

A warm wheel of creamy brie wrapped in crisp, buttery phyllo dough and filled with sweet preserves. Perfect for holidays, parties, or cozy nights in.

Key Ingredients

• 1 wheel French brie (12 oz)
• 4 sheets phyllo dough, thawed overnight
• 4 tbsp butter, melted
• ⅓ cup preserves (apricot, raspberry, or fig work beautifully)
• 1 tbsp honey (optional)
• 1 tbsp freshly chopped nuts (optional, for garnish)

Tools Needed

• Pastry brush
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl (to melt butter)
• Sharp knife

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 400ºF. Thaw the phyllo dough overnight so it’s pliable and easier to handle. Melt the butter in a small dish and set aside with your pastry brush.

Step 2: Layer the Phyllo Sheets

Lay one phyllo sheet on a clean surface and brush lightly with melted butter. Place another sheet on top and butter again. Repeat with the third sheet. Place the fourth sheet on top without brushing. Work quickly to prevent the sheets from drying out.

Step 3: Add Brie and Preserves

Unwrap the brie and place it in the center of the layered phyllo. Spread the preserves evenly on top of the brie for sweetness that will contrast with the creamy cheese.

Step 4: Wrap the Brie

Fold the phyllo sheets over the brie one by one, brushing butter on each fold so they stick and crisp beautifully. Be gentle to avoid tearing.

Step 5: Bake the Wrapped Brie

Place the wrapped brie on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the phyllo turns golden and crisp. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Remove from the oven and let it rest for 3–5 minutes. Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with chopped nuts if desired. Serve warm with crackers, baguette slices, or extra preserves on the side.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Customizable with different preserves and toppings

Elegant yet simple to prepare

Perfect centerpiece for holidays or parties

Pairs well with wine and cocktails

Crispy, golden layers with a molten, cheesy center

Mistakes to Avoid & Solutions

Mistake 1: Using cold phyllo dough
Solution: Cold dough cracks easily. Always thaw overnight in the fridge.

Mistake 2: Overbaking the brie
Solution: Too much time in the oven can cause the cheese to burst out. Check at the 15-minute mark.

Mistake 3: Skipping butter between layers
Solution: Without butter, phyllo won’t crisp. Brush lightly but thoroughly between sheets.

Mistake 4: Cutting immediately
Solution: Hot brie can spill out too quickly. Let it rest 3–5 minutes before serving.

Mistake 5: Using too much filling
Solution: Overloading with preserves can cause leaks. Stick to about ⅓ cup.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Serve as an appetizer with crostini, crackers, or sliced baguette.

Pair with sparkling wine, rosé, or a dry white like Sauvignon Blanc.

For a holiday table, place it on a wooden board surrounded by grapes, figs, or fresh herbs for a rustic look.

This dish works beautifully in buffet-style spreads or as a plated starter at a dinner party.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

To reheat, place on a baking sheet and warm in a 350ºF oven for 10 minutes.

Avoid microwaving it makes the pastry soggy.

FAQs

1. Can I use puff pastry instead of phyllo?
Yes, puff pastry will give a thicker, more buttery crust, though it will be less flaky than phyllo.

2. What preserves work best?
Fig, apricot, raspberry, and cranberry are classic, but any fruit preserve you love will work.

3. Do I need to remove the rind from the brie?
No, the rind is edible and helps the cheese hold its shape when baked.

4. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the brie up to 4 hours in advance and keep it covered in the fridge. Bake just before serving.

5. How do I prevent the phyllo from drying out?
Keep unused sheets covered with a damp towel while working.

Tips & Tricks

Add fresh rosemary or thyme under the phyllo for a subtle herby note.

Sprinkle sea salt flakes on top after baking for a gourmet finish.

Serve with a charcuterie board for a stunning appetizer spread.

Recipe Variations

Savory twist: Replace preserves with caramelized onions and top with fresh thyme.

Nutty crunch: Add crushed pecans or walnuts inside with the jam.

Spiced brie: Mix a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the preserves for holiday warmth.

Mini brie bites: Use small brie rounds and cut phyllo into squares for individual portions.

Final Thoughts

The way the phyllo shatters when cut, the cheese slowly stretching onto the bread, and the balance of sweet and savory flavors always makes guests pause for a moment of delight. It’s a dish that invites people to gather, talk, and linger around the table.

If you want an appetizer that looks stunning, tastes indulgent, and feels festive without hours of work, this baked brie will never disappoint. I always keep the ingredients on hand because celebrations deserve something golden and unforgettable.