Baked Brie with Brandy and Nuts

The first time I made this was at least three decades ago, and it is still on my much-loved list of easy but elegant appetizers. The contrast of sweet with savory is a match made in food heaven. This makes me think of holidays, as I almost always serve it at get togethers. And, an added bonus, if you are asked to bring a “dish to pass,” the ingredients are easy and few to pack up and bring along. This was a favorite on the Bistro menu!

Ingredients for 12 Servings

14 ounce brie round

¼ cup brown sugar

1 tablespoon brandy or whiskey

¼ cup toasted and chopped macadamia, pecans or walnuts

Preparation

Preheat oven to 500 degrees.

Place brie into a shallow, heat-proof dish, and bake until barely soft, approximately 5-7 minutes.

Mix sugar, brandy and nuts. Pour over brie and bake an additional 3-4 minutes, until sugar mix is bubbly. Do not let the cheese get too soft and runny.

Serve with crackers, croutons or, my favorite, a crusty warm baguette.

Garnish with grapes, seasonal fruit, think slices of apples, peaches or pears. Any dried fruit is great too especially figs and apricots.