Baked Brie with Fig Jam and Walnuts (vegan)
Printed from Inclusive Kitchen — Baked Brie with Fig Jam and Walnuts
Baked Brie with Fig Jam and Walnuts is a classic appetizer that has been enjoyed for centuries, often gracing the tables of festive gatherings and elegant soirées. Traditionally made with rich, creamy cheese, this vegan version swaps in a luscious cashew cheese that mimics the texture and flavor of brie, making it a perfect plant-based alternative. Topped with sweet fig jam and crunchy walnuts, this dish is not only visually stunning but also a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will impress your guests.
The history of baked brie can be traced back to France, where cheese is a staple of the culinary landscape. The French have long celebrated the art of cheese-making, and brie, with its soft, creamy texture, has been a favorite for centuries. This vegan adaptation pays homage to that tradition while embracing modern dietary preferences, proving that you can enjoy the same indulgent experience without animal products. Plus, it’s a great conversation starter—who knew cheese could be so versatile?
To prepare this dish, you’ll need a few essential ingredients and some basic kitchen equipment. The cashew cheese is made by blending soaked cashews with nutritional yeast, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt until smooth and creamy. The fig jam adds a touch of sweetness that perfectly complements the nuttiness of the walnuts. As you bake the cheese, it becomes warm and gooey, creating a delightful dip for crackers or fresh fruit. Just be careful; it’s so good you might find yourself fighting over the last bite!
This Baked Brie with Fig Jam and Walnuts is perfect for holiday gatherings, casual get-togethers, or even a cozy night in. Serve it warm, and watch as your guests dive in with enthusiasm. Just remember, if anyone asks for the recipe, you can always say it’s a “secret” ingredient—after all, who doesn’t love a little mystery in their cooking?
Ingredients
- 1.5 cups raw cashews
- 0.5 cup nutritional yeast
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 cup fig jam
- 0.5 cup walnuts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme
Instructions
- Begin by soaking 1.5 cups of raw cashews in water for at least 4 hours or overnight. This softens the nuts, making them easier to blend into a creamy cheese.
- After soaking, drain and rinse the cashews. In a high-speed blender or food processor, combine the cashews, 0.5 cup of nutritional yeast, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, and 0.5 teaspoon of salt.
- Blend the mixture on high until it becomes smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed. This should take about 2-3 minutes, and the texture should resemble that of traditional cheese.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is ideal for gently warming the cheese without burning it.
- In a small baking dish, spread the cashew cheese mixture evenly to form a round shape, mimicking a wheel of brie. Use a spatula to smooth the top.
- Spread 0.5 cup of fig jam over the top of the cashew cheese. The sweetness of the jam will contrast beautifully with the creamy cheese.
- Chop 0.5 cup of walnuts coarsely and sprinkle them over the fig jam. The nuts will add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
- Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the top and sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme for added flavor. Thyme pairs wonderfully with both figs and nuts.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is warm and slightly bubbling around the edges.
- Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This will help the cheese set slightly, making it easier to serve.
- Serve the baked brie warm with an assortment of crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh fruit. The combination of flavors will have everyone coming back for more.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven before serving again.
- Enjoy this dish as a centerpiece for your next gathering or as a cozy treat for yourself. Just remember to share—unless you want to be the only one enjoying this deliciousness!
- Feel free to experiment with different toppings, such as dried fruits or herbs, to make this dish your own. The possibilities are endless!
Nutrition (per serving)
- Calories: 220
- Carbs g: 12
- Protein g: 6
- Fat g: 18
- Sugar g: 5
