1 large Honeycrisp or Granny Smith apple, thinly sliced or diced
3 tablespoons honey
1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon fresh thyme or rosemary (optional)
Crackers, baguette slices, or apple slices for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a small baking sheet with parchment paper or choose a small, oven-safe baking dish that is just slightly larger than the wheel of cheese. This ensures the cheese stays contained once it begins to soften.
Step 2: Score the Cheese: Place the Brie wheel on the prepared pan or dish. Using a sharp knife, gently score the top rind of the cheese in a crosshatch pattern. Do not cut all the way through; you just want to create shallow slits to allow the honey and apple juices to seep into the cheese.
Step 3: Prepare the Apple Topping: In a medium bowl, toss the sliced or diced apples with 2 tablespoons of honey and the ground cinnamon. Ensure the apples are evenly coated so they caramelize beautifully in the oven. If you are using nuts, you can mix them in now or save them for the end for extra crunch.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake: Pile the apple mixture generously on top of the Brie wheel. Place the dish in the center of the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. The cheese should be very soft to the touch, and the apples should be tender and fragrant.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve: Remove the cheese from the oven. Drizzle the remaining tablespoon of honey over the top and sprinkle with fresh thyme or rosemary and the chopped nuts if you haven’t already. Serve immediately while the cheese is warm and melted.