Upside-Down Brie Bites

These upside-down brie bites are a perfect little appetizer that balances flaky puff pastry with creamy nutty brie and a touch of honey sweetness. They look elegant but come together easily, making them ideal for holiday gatherings or any time you want to impress without too much fuss. Building the bites upside down is a fun twist that keeps the brie melted and gooey inside its golden puff pastry shell.

I first made these at a family party, and now everyone asks me to bring them. They always disappear quickly, which never surprises me.

Ingredients

• Mini brie rounds: creamy and nutty, these are the star of the show fresh and good quality brie melts best
• Frozen puff pastry: gives a buttery, flaky crust be sure to thaw fully before rolling
• Honey: adds delicate sweetness and pairs beautifully with brie use a mild floral honey for best results
• Large egg: used for an egg wash that gives a pretty golden crust
• Fresh chives: provide a subtle oniony freshness and pretty green garnish choose firm bright stalks

Step-by-Step Instructions

Roll out the Puff Pastry:

Gently roll your thawed puff pastry sheet to about one and a half times its original size for easier cutting and wrapping.

Cut the Rounds:

Using a circular cutter about three and a half inches wide, cut out eight rounds from the pastry sheet to match your number of brie rounds.

Build the Bites Upside-Down:

Place parchment paper on a baking sheet and pipe or dollop about half a tablespoon of honey for each bite. Score the top of each brie round lightly with a knife to help it melt evenly then place each brie on top of its honey dollop.

Wrap the Brie:

Carefully wrap each brie round from the edges with the puff pastry, tucking and folding neatly to encase the cheese.

Seal the Edges:

Press the edges of the pastry together with a fork to seal them tightly and prevent the dough from puffing too much in the oven.

Egg Wash and Bake:

Brush each wrapped brie bite with beaten egg to get a beautiful golden color as it bakes. Bake in a preheated 400 degree oven for 18 to 20 minutes until golden and puffed.

Finishing Touches:

Remove from the oven and transfer the bites to a serving plate. Sprinkle the chopped fresh chives on top and finish with an extra drizzle of honey just before serving.

Bookmark

Brie has been a family favorite here for years, and the first time I paired it with puff pastry and honey was a game changer. It’s one of those recipes that always brings smiles and lively conversation around the table.

Storage Tips

Once cooled, store leftover brie bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in a warm oven to revive the crisp pastry and melty cheese. Avoid microwaving as it can make the pastry soggy.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you can’t find mini brie rounds, slice a larger brie into small discs of similar size but be careful not to overfill. You can swap the fresh chives for finely chopped thyme or rosemary for a different herbal note. Maple syrup or agave can replace honey but might change the flavor profile slightly.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these bites alongside a crisp green salad or a simple charcuterie board with dried fruits and nuts. They also pair beautifully with a glass of light white wine or sparkling cider for holiday parties.

Pro Tips

• Make sure your puff pastry is fully thawed before rolling so it doesn’t crack or tear.
• Don’t skip scoring the brie top to help it melt evenly and prevent bursting.
• Brush the egg wash gently to avoid piercing the pastry and losing shape during baking.

Common Recipe Questions

→ What type of brie works best?

Mini brie rounds with a soft, creamy center work beautifully, allowing easy portioning and quick melting inside the pastry.

→ Can other cheeses be used instead of brie?

Soft cheeses like camembert or goat cheese can be substituted for a similar creamy texture and mild flavor.

→ Why are the bites assembled upside-down?

Placing brie on honey first helps caramelize the underside during baking, creating a subtle sweetness and a stable base for wrapping with pastry.

→ How can I make the pastry crispier?

Ensure the dough is chilled before cutting and baking; brushing with egg wash boosts golden color and crisp texture.

→ What’s a good garnish for these bites?

Freshly chopped chives add a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that brightens the richness of the brie and honey.

→ Can these be prepared ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble them in advance and refrigerate for a few hours before baking to save time on event day.