These Fig Brie Bites are tiny, tasty treats that combine sweet figs and creamy brie cheese wrapped in flaky pastry. Perfect for any gathering or a cozy night in!
They’re so easy to make that I often prepare them when I’m feeling fancy (even if I’m still in my pajamas). Trust me, they’ll disappear faster than you can blink! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mini Tart Shells: I love using pre-made mini tart shells for convenience and perfect size. If you want to make them from scratch, consider using a simple pastry dough. Alternatively, phyllo dough can be used but will give a different texture.
Brie Cheese: Brie is creamy and rich, making it perfect here. If you can’t find Brie, try Camembert for a similar taste, or even goat cheese for a tangy twist!
Fresh Figs: Fresh figs add a delicate sweetness. If figs are out of season, use dried figs, but consider rehydrating them in warm water to soften before slicing.
Honey or Fig Jam: Honey adds a lovely floral sweetness. You can swap it for maple syrup or agave nectar. Jam is a great alternative, too; just choose a flavor that complements your figs!
Rosemary: Fresh rosemary finishes these bites beautifully. If you don’t have it, try thyme or omit it if herbs aren’t your thing!
How Can I Ensure My Brie Melts Perfectly?
Getting Brie to melt just right is key for these bites. Here’s how to do it:
- Cut Brie into small, uniform pieces so they melt evenly.
- Don’t overbake! Check at the 8-minute mark. You want it soft and melted, not oozing out.
- Let the shells cool for a couple of minutes after baking to avoid burns but serve them warm so the texture is just right.
Enjoy making these delightful bites, and feel free to get creative with the ingredients to suit your taste! They’re sure to impress everyone at the table.
Fig Brie Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bites:
- 1 package (8 oz) refrigerated mini tart shells or mini puff pastry shells
- 8 oz Brie cheese, rind removed and cut into small pieces
- 4-5 fresh figs, sliced into quarters
- 2 tablespoons honey or fig jam
- Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 10 minutes to bake, totaling roughly 25 minutes. You get a deliciously elegant treat in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure it’s nice and hot for baking your Fig Brie Bites perfectly!
2. Prepare the Tart Shells:
Arrange the mini tart shells or puff pastry shells on a baking sheet. Make sure they’re spaced evenly so they bake well.
3. Add the Brie:
Take your Brie and cut it into small pieces. Place a small piece of Brie cheese into each tart shell, filling them about halfway. Don’t worry; it will melt beautifully!
4. Bake Them Up:
Pop the baking sheet into the oven and bake for about 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them! You want the Brie to be soft and slightly melted, but not oozing out.
5. Cool Slightly:
Once done, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the bites cool for just a minute or two. They’ll be hot, so be careful!
6. Add Figs:
Top each melted Brie tart with a quarter slice of fresh fig. This adds a burst of sweetness and a beautiful pop of color!
7. Drizzle and Garnish:
Now, drizzle a small amount of honey or fig jam over each bite for extra sweetness. If you like, garnish with a little rosemary sprig on top for a fragrant finish!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
These bites are best served warm, but they also taste great at room temperature. Gather your friends or family around, serve them up, and watch them disappear!
Can I Use Frozen Puff Pastry Instead of Mini Tart Shells?
Absolutely! If you have frozen puff pastry, just thaw it according to package instructions and cut it into small squares or circles to fit your baking tray. Follow the same instructions for filling and baking, adjusting the baking time if needed until they’re golden and puffed up.
Can I Make These Bites Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the tart shells and fill them with Brie in advance. Store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Just add the figs and honey after baking to keep them fresh!
How to Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them gently in the oven at a low temperature for a few minutes to revive the delectable melty Brie.
Can I Swap Out the Figs?
Definitely! While figs provide a lovely sweetness, you can substitute them with other fruits like fresh pear slices, cherries, or even a dollop of cranberry sauce for a seasonal twist. Just adjust the sweetness accordingly!
