Brie and Raspberry Jam Puffs – The Perfect Valentine’s Day Starter

Looking for an elegant yet easy appetizer to impress your Valentine? These Brie and Raspberry Jam Puffs are the perfect blend of creamy, sweet, and flaky goodness. With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, they’ll elevate your Valentine’s celebration without keeping you in the kitchen for too long.

Recipe: Brie and Raspberry Jam Puffs

Ingredients:

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
• 4 oz Brie cheese, cut into small cubes
• 1/4 cup raspberry jam
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Fresh thyme leaves (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the puff pastry and cut it into 12 equal squares.
3. Place a cube of Brie in the center of each square and top with a small dollop (about 1/2 tsp) of raspberry jam.
4. Fold the pastry corners over the filling to create a neat little bundle. Press to seal.
5. Brush the tops with beaten egg for a golden finish.
6. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the puffs are golden and crispy.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired, and serve warm.

Tips for Success:

• Perfect Pastry: Keep your puff pastry cold before baking for the best puff and texture.
• Jam Choice: While raspberry jam offers a lovely balance of sweet and tart, feel free to experiment with fig, apricot, or cranberry jam.
• Add a Crunch: Sprinkle chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, on top of the jam for added texture and flavor.

Variations:

• Savory Twist: Swap the raspberry jam for caramelized onions or pepper jelly for a savory bite.
• Herbaceous Flavor: Add a touch of fresh rosemary or thyme inside the puff for an herbal note.
• Cheese Substitution: Try Camembert or goat cheese in place of Brie for a different flavor profile.