Bold & Herby Baked Brie en Croûte

Some recipes just feel special the moment they hit the table. This baked brie is one of them. Wrapped in buttery puff pastry and filled with basil pesto, bright lemon zest, and a touch of heat, it’s rich, savory, and delicately crisp. Whether you’re entertaining or indulging yourself, this golden, flaky appetizer comes together in minutes but looks and tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

1 sheet Pepperidge Farm puff pastry, thawed for 30 minutes

1 wheel Brie cheese (8–12 oz)

4 tablespoons basil pesto

1 teaspoon Calabrian chili paste (or chili crisp, or a pinch of red pepper flakes)

1 teaspoon fresh lemon zest

2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

1 egg

1 tablespoon water

Optional garnish: fresh basil, flaky sea salt, or a light drizzle of olive oil

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Prepare the pastry:

On a lightly floured surface, roll the thawed puff pastry into a 14-inch square.

Prepare the filling:

Cut the Brie wheel in half horizontally.

In a small bowl, stir together the basil pesto, chili paste, lemon zest, and Parmesan until well combined.

Spread the mixture evenly over the bottom half of the Brie, then replace the top half.

Wrap it up:

Place the filled Brie in the center of the puff pastry. Trim excess corners if needed.

Beat the egg and water together, and brush a thin line along the pastry edges to help seal.

Fold the pastry up over the Brie, pressing gently to close. Brush with more egg wash to “glue” any seams.

Flip and finish:

Carefully turn the wrapped Brie over so the smooth side faces up. Brush the entire surface with egg wash.

Sprinkle a touch of flaky sea salt on top for extra flavor.

Bake:

Bake for 25–30 minutes, until the pastry is deep golden brown and crisp.

Serve:

Let rest 5–10 minutes before cutting. Garnish with fresh basil or a drizzle of olive oil.

Serve warm with toasted baguette slices, garlic crostini, or apple slices.

Tip:

If you want extra kick, brush the pastry with a mix of olive oil and a tiny bit of chili paste before baking—it adds gorgeous color and a whisper of heat on every bite.

Pro Tips

For extra shine, brush a second layer of egg wash halfway through baking.

Try a drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze just before serving for a sweet contrast.

You can swap basil pesto for sun-dried tomato pesto or fig jam for a new twist.

Serve on a wooden board surrounded by crackers, apple slices, or crostini for a beautiful presentation.

Golden, melty, and irresistibly rich, this Basil Pesto Baked Brie brings a touch of elegance to every occasion. ✨

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