Baked Brie in Bread Bowl with Fig Preserves Recipe

If you’re looking for an appetizer that’s show-stopping, ridiculously delicious, and surprisingly easy to make, I’m about to share a secret weapon with you: Baked Brie in Bread Bowl with Fig Preserves Recipe. I absolutely love this because it brings together creamy, melty brie, sweet fig preserves, and crusty sourdough bread in a way that feels both fancy and comforting. Trust me, once you try this, it’s going to be your go-to for all your gatherings and cozy nights in.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

I always try to keep ingredients simple and accessible, and this Baked Brie in Bread Bowl with Fig Preserves Recipe is no exception. The key is using quality brie, a sturdy sourdough loaf, and rich fig preserves to balance out the savory cheese.

• Sourdough Bread: You want a round loaf with a firm crust that’ll hold up after hollowing and toasting.
• Brie Cheese: An 8-ounce wheel is perfect for fitting into the bread bowl and melting to creamy perfection.
• Fig Preserves: This adds just the right touch of sweetness and depth, but you can substitute with other fruit preserves if you want.
• Fresh Figs: Optional, for garnish – they add a lovely natural sweetness and a pop of color.
• Rosemary Sprigs: For garnish, giving an herby aroma that complements the rich brie and sweet figs beautifully.
• Olive Oil: To brush the bread slices, helping them crisp up nicely in the air fryer.

Variations

One of the things I adore about this Baked Brie in Bread Bowl with Fig Preserves Recipe is how flexible it is—you can truly make it your own depending on your mood or what you have in the pantry. Here are a few of my favorite twists you might enjoy trying out.

• Swap the Sweetener: I discovered adding a drizzle of honey over the fig preserves before baking enhances the sweetness and complexity.
• Add Nuts: Chopped toasted walnuts or pecans sprinkled on top add a delightful crunch and depth of flavor.
• Herb Infusion: Mixing fresh thyme or sage into the fig preserves gives it an earthy aroma I found pairs wonderfully with the brie.
• Make it Vegan: Try a plant-based cheese alternative with a similar creamy texture and your favorite fruit jam for a vegan-friendly version.

How to Make Baked Brie in Bread Bowl with Fig Preserves Recipe

Step 1: Hollow Out the Bread Bowl

Start by placing your brie wheel right on top of the round sourdough loaf. Using a sharp knife, gently trace a circle around the brie to mark where you’ll scoop out the bread. Carefully cut around and remove the bread within that circle—don’t dig too deep, just enough so the brie fits snugly inside. Next, cut 1-inch slits all around the cut circle without cutting all the way through. This might feel delicate, but it helps create those lovely pull-apart pieces later. Brush olive oil over the bread surface for a golden toast once it’s air-fried.

Step 2: Prepare the Brie

Place your brie on a clean surface. Take a small knife and carefully remove just the top rind of the brie—not the whole thing, just enough to expose the creamy cheese inside. This helps the preserves soak in and the cheese to melt perfectly without the outer rind getting too tough. Don’t toss that rind! It’s totally safe to eat on the sides and bottom.

Step 3: Assemble and Air Fry

Place the brie inside the hollowed-out bread bowl. Spoon the fig preserves over the top so you get that delicious sweet layer right where the cheese meets the bread. Line your air fryer basket with parchment or foil so cleanup is a breeze, then preheat it to 375°F. Place your bread bowl carefully in the basket and air fry for about 8 to 10 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the bread is golden and the brie is molten and oozy. Keep an eye during the last couple of minutes to make sure it doesn’t overcook.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Carefully remove your bread bowl from the air fryer to a serving plate. Garnish with fresh figs and rosemary sprigs for a stunning presentation. When I first made this recipe, my family went crazy for the way everything smelled as I brought it to the table—it’s that inviting! Serve it warm and watch everyone dive right in.

How to Serve Baked Brie in Bread Bowl with Fig Preserves Recipe

Garnishes

I usually go with fresh figs and rosemary sprigs like the recipe suggests—it’s such a classic, elegant combo. Sometimes I add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or chopped toasted nuts for a little extra texture and flavor contrast. If you want something different, sliced almonds or even a drizzle of balsamic glaze could work wonders.

Side Dishes

This baked brie bread bowl pairs beautifully with light, fresh sides. Think crisp salad greens dressed in lemon vinaigrette or a plate of sliced cured meats and olives. For a cozy night, I love serving it alongside roasted vegetables or a bright beet salad to balance the rich cheese.

Creative Ways to Present

One year for the holidays, I set up a little DIY charcuterie board around the bread bowl with different preserves, nuts, and crackers so everyone could customize their bites. It was a hit, and the bread bowl center piece really stole the show. For a rustic party vibe, try wrapping the bread bowl in a festive kitchen towel and place it in the center of the table for an inviting, shareable appetizer.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (not very likely, but it happens!), wrap the bread bowl tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the fridge. The brie won’t be quite as melty when cold, but the flavor still shines. You can slice it for sandwiches or small snacks the next day.

Freezing

I don’t usually freeze this because the texture of bread changes once thawed, but if you want to prep ahead, you can freeze the hollowed sourdough loaf separately or freeze the fig preserves if homemade. Brie freezes okay, but it’s best enjoyed fresh for that beautiful oozy melty texture.

Reheating

To reheat leftovers, I recommend wrapping the bread bowl in foil and warming it gently in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes, just until the cheese softens again. Avoid microwave reheating if you want to keep the bread crusty and the texture inviting.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I hope you give this Baked Brie in Bread Bowl with Fig Preserves Recipe a try because it truly is one of my favorite ways to impress guests without breaking a sweat. The blend of creamy cheese, sweet preserves, and crunchy bread is simple yet indulgent, perfect for holidays or special moments with friends and family. Once you experience it warming the table and brightening everyone’s faces, you’ll understand why it’s become such a beloved staple in my kitchen. Happy baking, and enjoy every oozy, flavorful bite!

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