Fig Brie Bites are little treats filled with creamy brie cheese and sweet figs, all wrapped up in crispy pastry. Perfect for a quick snack or a fancy appetizer!
These bites are so easy to make, and they disappear fast at parties! I like to serve them warm with a drizzle of honey on top. Your guests will be impressed—I promise!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mini Tart Shells or Puff Pastry: I recommend using mini tart shells for a flaky texture. If you can’t find them, puff pastry cut into circles works well too. Just roll it out and cut circles to fit your baking tray.
Brie Cheese: Brie is creamy and melts beautifully. If you’re looking for a light flavor, you can substitute with Camembert. For a lighter option, you can use goat cheese, which gives a different yet delightful taste.
Fig Jam or Preserves: Fig jam adds a lovely sweetness. If figs aren’t in season, consider using raspberry or apricot jam instead. They provide a fruity sweetness that pairs nicely too.
Fresh Figs: When fresh figs are in season, use them for a juicy texture. If not, you can skip them, or use dried figs. Just chop them finely to sprinkle on top instead!
How Do You Ensure Perfectly Baked Fig Brie Bites?
The key to getting those Fig Brie Bites just right is to keep an eye on the baking time. Here are some tips to help you succeed:
- Preheat your oven properly to help the tarts cook evenly. An oven thermometer can help check the temperature!
- Watch for a golden color on the pastry. If they start browning too much, take them out to avoid burning.
- Let them cool for a few minutes after baking. This gives the cheese a chance to set slightly, making them easier to eat.
- Serve warm for the best flavor and texture. The contrast of warm cheese, sweet figs, and crispy pastry is simply delicious!
How to Make Fig Brie Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 package (about 12 ounces) mini tart shells or mini puff pastry shells
- 8 ounces Brie cheese, cut into small pieces to fit tart shells
- 1/2 cup fig jam or fig preserves
- 6 fresh figs, quartered
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for drizzling)
- Fresh rosemary sprigs, for garnish
Time Estimate:
This delightful recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 10-12 minutes to bake, making it roughly 25-30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and fancy appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, while you’re preparing the bites, your oven will be ready for baking!
2. Prepare the Tart Shells:
Line up the mini tart shells on a baking sheet. Make sure they are placed apart to allow for even baking.
3. Add the Brie:
Take a piece of Brie cheese and place it in the center of each tart shell. Don’t worry if it doesn’t fit perfectly; it will melt and spread during baking!
4. Spoon on the Fig Jam:
Next, add about 1 teaspoon of fig jam or preserves on top of each piece of Brie. This adds a sweet and fruity flavor that pairs wonderfully with the cheese.
5. Top with Fresh Figs:
Now, place a couple of quartered fresh figs on top of the jam in each shell. They will add a beautiful garnish and more natural sweetness!
6. Bake the Bites:
Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven. Bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese has softened and melted and the pastry is golden brown. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
7. Cool Slightly:
Once baked, take them out of the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes. This makes them easier to handle and enhances the flavors.
8. Drizzle with Honey:
If you like, drizzle a little honey over each bite for extra sweetness. It complements the cheese and figs beautifully!
9. Garnish:
Finally, add a small sprig of fresh rosemary on top of each Fig Brie Bite for a pop of color and an aromatic touch.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Fig Brie Bites warm and watch them disappear quickly! These little treats are perfect for parties or a cozy night in.
Can I Use Other Cheeses Instead of Brie?
Absolutely! While Brie is a classic choice due to its creamy texture, you can also use Camembert or goat cheese for a different flavor profile. Just ensure to select a cheese that melts well.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prep the tart shells with cheese and fig jam up to a day in advance. Just cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Bake them fresh right before serving for the best taste!
How Should Leftovers Be Stored?
Store any leftover Fig Brie Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to regain their crispiness.
Can I Use Dried Figs Instead of Fresh Figs?
Yes, you can! If using dried figs, chop them finely and sprinkle them on top of the Brie instead of quartering fresh figs. They’ll add a sweet flavor and chewy texture!
