Description

This elegant baked brie with saffron honey and lemon fennel is a luxurious appetizer featuring creamy, melted brie topped with floral saffron-infused honey and a bright, citrusy fennel garnish. Perfect for entertaining, this easy recipe delivers a stunning balance of rich, sweet, and refreshing flavors.

Ingredients

1 wheel brie cheese (8–12 ounces)
2 tablespoons honey
1/4 teaspoon saffron threads
1 small fennel bulb, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Crackers or sliced bread, for serving

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Place brie on a parchment-lined baking dish or oven-safe skillet.
Gently warm honey in a small saucepan or microwave, then stir in saffron threads. Let infuse for 5–10 minutes.
In a bowl, toss sliced fennel with lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Set aside to soften slightly.
Bake brie for 10–15 minutes until soft and gooey in the center.
Remove from oven and drizzle saffron honey over the top.
Spoon lemon fennel mixture over or alongside the brie.
Serve immediately with crackers or sliced bread.

Notes

The rind of the brie is edible and helps hold its shape while baking.Do not overbake, or the cheese may lose its structure completely.Prepare toppings ahead, but bake just before serving for best texture.Saffron adds subtle floral notes but can be omitted if unavailable.