Phyllo Baked Brie with Prosciutto and Fig Jam: A Decadent, Crowd-Pleasing Appetizer

When it comes to elegant appetizers that combine rich flavors and textures, few dishes are as impressive and indulgent as Phyllo Baked Brie with Prosciutto and Fig Jam . This show-stopping dish features a wheel of creamy brie cheese wrapped in buttery, flaky phyllo dough, topped with savory prosciutto and sweet fig jam. Perfect for holiday gatherings, dinner parties, or special occasions, this dish is both simple to prepare and unforgettable to taste. In this article, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know about making this delightful appetizer, including tips, variations, and serving suggestions. By the end, you’ll have a foolproof recipe for a dish that’s as sophisticated as it is satisfying.

---

Why You’ll Love Phyllo Baked Brie with Prosciutto and Fig Jam

1. Perfect Balance of Flavors

The combination of creamy brie, salty prosciutto, sweet fig jam, and crispy phyllo creates a symphony of flavors and textures in every bite.

2. Quick and Easy

With just a few simple steps, this appetizer comes together quickly, even for beginner cooks. The phyllo dough adds elegance without much effort.

3. Versatile

Whether served as a standalone appetizer or paired with a charcuterie board, this dish is versatile enough for any occasion.

4. Perfect for Special Occasions

The presentation is as stunning as the taste, making this dish ideal for impressing guests at dinner parties or celebrating milestones.

---

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make Phyllo Baked Brie with Prosciutto and Fig Jam:

For the Dish:

• 1 wheel of brie cheese (8–10 ounces)
• 6 sheets of phyllo dough (thawed if frozen)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 4 slices of prosciutto, torn into small pieces
• 2–3 tablespoons fig jam (or substitute with apricot or raspberry jam)
• Optional: Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs for garnish

For Serving:

• Crackers, sliced baguette, or apple slices for dipping

---

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Prepare the Phyllo Layers

1. Lay one sheet of phyllo dough on a clean surface and brush it lightly with melted butter.
2. Layer another sheet of phyllo on top, brushing it with butter as well. Repeat until you have 6 layers of phyllo dough stacked and buttered.
3. Cut the layered phyllo dough into a circle slightly larger than the wheel of brie using a knife or round cutter.

Step 3: Assemble the Brie

1. Place the wheel of brie in the center of the phyllo circle.
2. Spread the fig jam evenly over the top of the brie.
3. Sprinkle the torn prosciutto pieces over the fig jam.

Step 4: Wrap the Brie

1. Gently fold the edges of the phyllo dough up and over the brie, pleating them as needed to fully enclose the cheese. Brush the outside of the phyllo with additional melted butter for extra crispiness.
2. Optional: Garnish the top with fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs for added flair.

Step 5: Bake

Place the wrapped brie on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the phyllo is golden brown and crispy.

Step 6: Serve

Let the baked brie cool for 5 minutes before transferring it to a serving platter. Serve warm with crackers, sliced baguette, or apple slices for dipping.

---

Tips for the Best Phyllo Baked Brie

1. Handle Phyllo Carefully : Keep unused phyllo sheets covered with a damp towel to prevent them from drying out while working.
2. Experiment with Toppings : Swap fig jam for honey, apricot preserves, or caramelized onions for a different flavor profile.
3. Use Room-Temperature Butter : Melted butter spreads more evenly over the delicate phyllo dough.
4. Make Ahead : Assemble the dish (without baking) up to a day in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
5. Freeze for Convenience : Wrap the unbaked assembled brie tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 1 month. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

---

Variations to Try

While the classic version is divine, here are some creative twists to try:

1. Spicy Kick : Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or drizzle of hot honey over the fig jam for a spicy-sweet combination.
2. Nutty Crunch : Top the brie with chopped toasted walnuts, pecans, or almonds before wrapping it in phyllo.
3. Herb Infusion : Mix finely chopped fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil into the melted butter for an aromatic touch.
4. Gluten-Free Option : Use gluten-free phyllo dough or puff pastry for a gluten-free alternative.
5. Vegan Version : Substitute vegan brie, plant-based butter, and vegan prosciutto for a dairy-free and meat-free option.

---

Serving Suggestions

Phyllo Baked Brie with Prosciutto and Fig Jam is versatile enough to serve in a variety of settings:

• For Appetizers : Pair with a charcuterie board featuring cured meats, cheeses, nuts, and fruit for a festive spread.
• At Parties : Serve as a centerpiece at holiday gatherings, New Year’s Eve parties, or intimate dinners.
• For Brunch : Offer alongside quiches, frittatas, or salads for a luxurious brunch option.
• With Beverages : Enjoy with a glass of sparkling wine, red wine, or a cold beer for a refreshing pairing.

---

Nutritional Information

Understanding the nutritional content of your meals helps you enjoy them mindfully. Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving (assuming 8 servings):

• Calories: 180–200
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 6g

These numbers may vary slightly depending on the brands of ingredients used. Always check nutrition labels for accuracy.

---

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use puff pastry instead of phyllo dough? A: Yes! Puff pastry works well as a substitute for phyllo dough and provides a similar flaky texture.

Q: What can I use instead of fig jam? A: Apricot preserves, raspberry jam, or honey work well as substitutes for fig jam.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Absolutely! Assemble the dish (without baking) up to a day in advance and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.

Q: How do I prevent the phyllo from tearing? A: Handle the phyllo gently and keep unused sheets covered with a damp towel to prevent them from drying out.

Q: Can I freeze this dish? A: Yes! Wrap the unbaked assembled brie tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 1 month. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

---

Conclusion

Phyllo Baked Brie with Prosciutto and Fig Jam is proof that simplicity and sophistication can go hand in hand. With its flaky crust, creamy cheese, savory prosciutto, and sweet fig jam, this dish is sure to impress your guests or satisfy your own cravings for something indulgent yet refined. Whether you’re serving it for appetizers, brunch, or special occasions, this recipe guarantees a result that’s as easy to make as it is satisfying.

So gather your ingredients, fire up your oven, and get ready to create an appetizer that will leave everyone asking for more. Happy cooking—and happy indulging!

Print