Does the thought of entertaining overwhelm you? This 3-ingredient 15-minute appetizer is what you need: Baked Brie with Cherry Preserves and Almonds.
I love catching up with friends and neighbors around the holidays. It heightens the festive feel of the time of year. Unfortunately for me I can't switch gears easily from the rigors of my mom responsibilities to be the hostess with the most-est these days. There is so much going on. When I'm overextended, thinking up what to serve for a gathering or cocktail party feels like reciting all the decimals of Pi, while standing on one leg, blindfolded.
My friends, I have a secret to let you in on. I have a foolproof appetizer recipe that takes 15 minutes max and only uses 3 ingredients: Baked Brie with Cherry Preserves and Almonds. I challenge you to think of a quicker, easier appetizer recipe AND one that is as sophisticated!
To make this, one side of a wheel of brie is sliced off exposing the soft, delicious cheese. Some cherry preserves are spread on top and then sprinkled with almonds (sliced or slivered or a mix). It is baked for 8-10 minutes; just until it has softened and is warmed through but not begun to melt. Serve it with a soft cheese knife, crackers and fruit. Bam! You are done. Guests can slice it and eat it on crackers or fruit.
I keep a couple wheels of brie in the refrigerator along with a selection of crackers. We always seem to have an abundance of preserves or all kinds as well as nuts. Even if caught completely off guard I can whip this up and no one would know I wasn't totally prepared at all times (well, I guess by having all the ingredients on hand I AM ready at all times).
I love the flavor combination of brie, cherries and almonds. Other preserves can certainly be used too. This is a very flexible appetizer to put together with what you have on hand.
Another super quick 3-ingredient recipe you’ll love is Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Roll. Very easy to make and perfect to add to holiday entertaining!
Recipe
Baked Brie with Cherry Preserves and Almonds
Ingredients
- 1 8- ounce wheel of Brie cheese
- 1/4 cup Cherry Preserves
- 2 tablespoons Sliced Almonds or Slivered Almonds (or a mix)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Place parchment paper on a baking sheet with sides (note: dark colored baking sheets may require less baking time).
- Carefully slice the top of brie off removing only the rind. Spoon the preserves over the top. Distribute the almonds evenly over the top. Bake 8-10 minutes until the cheese is warmed and soft but not melted. Remove and serve.
Lisa Bristol says
I have been looking for something like this to serve for the Holidays. I will have to get the ingredients I need to try this recipe.
Claudia Krusch says
That looks soooo good! Such a pretty presentation too! Great job!
Ann Bacciaglia says
This recipe looks so delicious and easy to make. I am excited to give it a try. I know it will be a hit.
gingermommyrants says
This Baked Brie with Cherry Preserves and Almonds looks amazing. I will have to make one for my Holiday party this weekend.
Theresa says
It really doesn’t get any easier than this! I love your presentation too. Such a classy and sophisticated appetizer!
Kathy says
This looks amazing. I can’t wait to give this a try. I love how you made the brie. I bet it tastes amazing!
Amy Desrosiers says
I love baked brie cheese. It looks really tasty and the nuts make for a sweet and savory element.
Lisa Favre says
I have a brie baker and I’m always looking for different recipes to try out! Totally love your idea of using slivered almonds.
Reesa Lewandowski says
This looks absolutely beautiful! It screams the holidays to me!!!
Toni Dash says
Oh good Reesa! That was my hope even though it can be eaten any time!
Marcie W. says
If I could take my favorite flavors and create the ideal appetizer, this would be it. Creamy cheese, the sweet yet tart preserves and the crunch of the almonds is all so perfect!
Toni Dash says
Yay! That makes me very happy Marcie!