Layered Brie with Pesto Recipe
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Prep Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
Yield: 1 Brie wheel, serves 12
Description:
Layered Brie with Pesto is a visually stunning addition to any appetizer spread, perfect for festive occasions like Christmas with its vibrant red and green hues. Whether using store-bought pesto or homemade during basil season, this dish promises a delightful blend of flavors. The preparation involves freezing the Brie to achieve the perfect texture, making it a make-ahead option for gatherings.

Ingredients:
- 1 wheel Brie cheese
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Fresh ground pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons pesto sauce
- 1/2 cup pine nuts
Nutrition Per Serving:
- Calories: 343
- Fat: 28.3g
- Saturated Fat: 13.8g
- Cholesterol: 75.6mg
- Sodium: 570mg
- Carbohydrates: 5.2g
- Fiber: 1.9g
- Sugar: 2.6g
- Protein: 18.9g
Instructions:
-
Prepare Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
- Cover sun-dried tomatoes with hot water and soak for 30 minutes.
- Drain well and chop in a food processor until finely pureed.
-
Make Sun-Dried Tomato Mixture:
- Add olive oil and lemon juice to the chopped tomatoes in the food processor.
- Process until the mixture is well combined and smooth.
- Season with fresh ground pepper to taste. Set aside.
-
Prepare Brie:
- Freeze the Brie wheel for 2 hours to firm it up for easier handling.
-
Assemble and Bake:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Using a sharp knife, carefully slice the Brie horizontally to create two even halves.
- Spread a layer of pesto evenly over the bottom half of the Brie.
- Follow with an even layer of the sun-dried tomato mixture, leaving a 1/4-inch border around the edge.
- Carefully place the top half of the Brie over the filling and press gently to secure.
-
Bake:
- Place the assembled Brie on a baking sheet or in a baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, just until the cheese begins to soften.
-
Finish and Serve:
- Remove the Brie from the oven and sprinkle evenly with pine nuts, gently pressing them into the softened cheese.
- Serve warm with crackers and fruit slices for spreading and dipping.
Tips for Success:
- Ensure the Brie is sufficiently frozen before slicing to maintain its shape during assembly.
- Use a sharp knife to slice the Brie cleanly and evenly.
- Press the pine nuts gently into the Brie to ensure they adhere well without crushing the cheese.
- Serve the layered Brie warm for the best flavor and texture.
This Layered Brie with Pesto recipe not only makes for a delicious appetizer but also adds a festive touch to any holiday gathering or brunch spread. Its blend of creamy Brie, savory pesto, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes creates a flavor profile that will impress guests and leave them coming back for more. Perfect for Christmas, brunches, or any occasion where you want to elevate your appetizer game with minimal effort and maximum flavor impact!