Blackberry Brie Pastry Swirls
These Blackberry Brie Pastry Swirls are a perfect blend of sweet and savory. The combination of rich, creamy brie cheese and the tart sweetness of fresh blackberries wrapped in a flaky puff pastry makes for an irresistible appetizer or treat. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just craving a special snack, these swirls are sure to impress!
Ingredients:
1 sheet puff pastry (store-bought or homemade, thawed if frozen)
1 cup brie cheese, cut into small cubes (remove rind)
1/2 cup fresh blackberries (or substitute with blackberry jam)
1 tablespoon honey (optional for extra sweetness)
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Fresh thyme or rosemary (optional, for garnish)
A pinch of sugar (optional, for sprinkling on top)
Flour, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry
Unroll the puff pastry sheet onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it out a little if needed to smooth out any creases.
Cut the pastry into squares or rectangles (about 3-4 inches each). You can adjust the size depending on how large you want the swirls.
Step 3: Add the Filling
Place a few cubes of brie cheese in the center of each pastry square.
Top with 2-3 fresh blackberries. If you’re using blackberry jam, spread a small spoonful on top of the brie instead.
Step 4: Fold and Seal
Gently fold the corners of each pastry square over the filling, forming a loose swirl or packet. Pinch the edges together to seal. Alternatively, you can fold the pastry into a triangle or even roll it up like a pinwheel.
Step 5: Egg Wash
In a small bowl, whisk the egg to create an egg wash. Using a pastry brush, lightly brush the top of each pastry swirl with the egg wash to give it a golden, glossy finish once baked.
Step 6: Bake
Place the filled and egg-washed pastries onto your prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and puffed up.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, drizzle a bit of honey over the top of each pastry for added sweetness and flavor.
Optionally, sprinkle with fresh thyme or rosemary for an extra touch of flavor.
If you like, lightly dust with sugar for an added sparkle.
Step 8: Enjoy!
Let the pastries cool slightly before serving, then enjoy them warm and gooey!
Q&A:
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can swap brie for other soft cheeses like camembert, goat cheese, or even cream cheese for a similar creamy texture.
Can I use frozen puff pastry?
Definitely! Frozen puff pastry works great for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw it fully before using, and follow the instructions on the packaging.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the pastries and store them on a baking sheet in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to brush them with the egg wash just before baking.
Can I use blackberry jam instead of fresh blackberries?
Yes! If fresh blackberries are out of season or hard to find, blackberry jam works beautifully in place of fresh berries. Just use a small spoonful on top of the brie to avoid it oozing too much.
What if I don’t have an egg for the wash?
If you don’t have an egg, you can use a bit of milk or cream brushed on top instead for a slightly less glossy finish. It’ll still give you a golden crust!
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days, but they are best enjoyed fresh. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to get the puff pastry crisp again.
Tips:
Be gentle when folding the puff pastry so the filling doesn’t spill out. If using fresh blackberries, you can gently mash them with a fork before adding them to the pastry to help release their juice.
You can sprinkle some cinnamon sugar on top of the pastries for a slightly different flavor profile—perfect if you’re making them as a dessert.
If you want to make these extra fancy, serve them with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a perfect sweet-salty balance.