Description
8 oz wheel of Brie cheese, rind removed and softened
2 tablespoons heavy cream
2 tablespoons honey (plus extra for drizzling)
¼ cup toasted hazelnuts, roughly chopped
½ teaspoon flaky sea salt
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (optional)
Crackers or toasted baguette slices, for serving
Directions:
In a food processor, blend the Brie and heavy cream until smooth and creamy. This should take about 1-2 minutes.
Transfer the whipped Brie to a serving dish and drizzle with honey.
Sprinkle with toasted hazelnuts, flaky sea salt, and fresh thyme leaves if using.
Serve immediately with crackers or toasted baguette slices.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Kcal: 180 kcal per serving
Servings: 4-6
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect Whipped Brie every time. First, ensure your Brie wheel is at room temperature for at least 30 minutes; this is crucial for a smooth texture. Use a sharp knife to carefully remove the top and bottom rinds. Cut the cheese into chunks and place them in a clean, dry food processor bowl. Add the heavy cream. Process on high for 1-2 minutes, stopping to scrape down the sides once, until the mixture is completely smooth and has a light, airy consistency. Do not rush this step.
Using a spatula, transfer the whipped cheese to a shallow serving bowl or a small board. Use the back of a spoon to create gentle swirls or wells on the surface. Drizzle the 2 tablespoons of honey evenly over the top. In a small, dry pan over medium heat, toast the hazelnuts until fragrant, let them cool, then chop them roughly. Sprinkle the nuts, flaky sea salt, and fresh thyme leaves over the honey. For best presentation, add a final, light drizzle of extra honey just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
While crackers and baguette slices are classic, this whipped Brie is incredibly versatile. For a sweet and savory board, serve it with apple and pear slices, dried figs, or a dollop of fruit preserves. It also makes a luxurious spread for breakfast on toasted brioche or croissants. For a festive appetizer, present it in a hollowed-out bread bowl surrounded by an array of dippers like pretzel rods, endive leaves, and crisp celery sticks.
How-to Summary
In summary, create this elegant appetizer in three simple stages: blend room-temperature Brie and cream until smooth, transfer to a dish and top with honey, nuts, salt, and herbs, then serve immediately with your chosen accompaniments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time? You can blend the Brie and cream up to a day in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator, but let it come to room temperature and give it a quick stir before adding toppings and serving.
What can I use instead of hazelnuts? Toasted pecans, walnuts, or pistachios are excellent substitutes. For a nut-free version, use toasted pumpkin seeds (pepitas).
Is it necessary to remove the rind? Yes, for the silkiest texture, the rind should be removed. It will not blend smoothly and can create a grainy consistency.
My mixture is too thick. What went wrong? This usually means the Brie was too cold. Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes, then process again, adding an extra teaspoon of heavy cream if needed.
Can I use a hand mixer instead of a food processor? A stand mixer or a powerful hand mixer with a bowl can work, but a food processor yields the smoothest, most whipped result most efficiently.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid using cold Brie straight from the fridge, as it will not whip properly. Do not over-process the cheese once it’s smooth, as this can cause it to become greasy. Ensure your nuts are properly cooled before chopping and sprinkling, or they will melt the cheese. Finally, do not skip the flaky sea salt—it is essential for balancing the sweetness of the honey and richness of the cheese.
Conclusion
This Whipped Brie with Honey and Hazelnuts is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that marries luxurious texture with sophisticated flavors. Its minimal prep time and stunning presentation make it an ideal choice for effortless entertaining. By following this enhanced guide, you can avoid common pitfalls and customize it to your taste, ensuring a perfect appetizer for any occasion.
