Description
This Brie Stuffed with Piloncillo-Caramelized Apples recipe is a delicious and elegant appetizer perfect for entertaining. Sweet and caramel-rich piloncillo-cooked apples complement the creamy, melted brie, all grilled to perfection for a warm, gooey delight served with crisp crostini or crackers.
Ingredients
For the Caramelized Apples
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 cup thinly sliced apples
- 2 fresh thyme sprigs
- 2 fresh rosemary sprigs
- ½ cup piloncillo (or dark brown sugar)
For the Brie and Serving
- 1 16-ounce wheel brie (chilled)
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- Crackers or crostini slices, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the caramelized apples: Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat. Add the sliced apples, thyme, and rosemary. Sauté gently until the apples become slightly tender, about 5 minutes.
- Caramelize with piloncillo: Stir in the piloncillo and continue cooking for another 5 minutes until the piloncillo begins to caramelize. Remove the pan from heat, then carefully remove and discard the thyme and rosemary sprigs.
- Cool the apples: Allow the caramelized apples to cool to room temperature to prevent melting the brie prematurely when assembled.
- Preheat the grill: Heat an outdoor grill to 500 degrees Fahrenheit, or alternatively, warm a stovetop grill pan over medium-low heat for grilling the brie.
- Assemble the stuffed brie: Slice the brie wheel horizontally into two even circles. Place the cooled caramelized apples evenly over the cut side of one cheese circle, then cover by sandwiching with the other cheese circle cut side down.
- Grill the brie: Brush the grill grates lightly with extra-virgin olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the assembled brie wheel on the grill and cook for about 3 minutes on each side until grill marks form and the cheese starts to soften.
- Serve immediately: Transfer the grilled stuffed brie to a serving platter and present with crostini slices or your preferred crackers for dipping and enjoying.
Notes
- Use a firm apple variety like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture in caramelizing.
- If piloncillo is unavailable, substitute with dark brown sugar for a similar flavor.
- Make sure the brie is chilled before assembly for easier slicing and handling.
- Serve promptly while the brie is warm and gooey for the best tasting experience.
- For an indoor option, a stovetop grill pan works well to create grill marks and even heating.
