Golden Baked Brie with Caramelized Apples and Thyme

 Golden Baked Brie with Caramelized Apples and Thyme 

Ingredients:

2 Honeycrisp apples, sliced

3 tablespoons salted butter

3 tablespoons maple syrup

1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed

1 wheel of brie (8-12 ounces)

2 tablespoons apple butter (or fig preserves)

1 beaten egg, for brushing

Coarse sugar, for sprinkling

Fresh thyme, for garnish

Directions:

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure the puff pastry becomes golden and crispy while the brie melts inside.

2. Caramelize the Apples

Toss the sliced apples with butter and maple syrup in a baking dish. Roast in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are soft and caramelized. Set aside.

3. Prepare the Brie and Puff Pastry

Lay the thawed puff pastry on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Place the brie wheel in the center. Cut away a small section of the brie rind from the top to expose the cheese, and spread 2 tablespoons of apple butter (or fig preserves) over the top.

4. Wrap the Brie in Pastry

Fold the puff pastry over the brie, sealing the edges. Trim any excess pastry if needed. Brush the pastry with the beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse sugar for added sweetness and texture.

5. Bake

Bake the wrapped brie in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and crisp. Check periodically to prevent over-baking.

6. Serve

Top the baked brie with the caramelized apples and garnish with fresh thyme. Serve warm with crackers, baguette slices, or even apple slices for dipping.