Valentines Charcuterie Board with Baked Brie

Name: Valentines Charcuterie Board with Baked Brie
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: Serves 4-6
Ingredients: 1 wheel of brie cheese; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Assorted crackers; Sliced baguette; Fresh fruits (grapes, strawberries, apple slices); Dried fruits (apricots, figs); Nuts (almonds, walnuts); Cured meats (prosciutto, salami)

Highlighted under: Family Cooking

Valentine's Day is a special occasion for me, and I love celebrating it with a delightful charcuterie board featuring a warm, gooey baked brie. This combination not only impresses my loved ones but also allows for a variety of flavors and textures to shine. I enjoy picking out the freshest fruits, cheeses, and meats to create the perfect balance. It's fun to arrange everything beautifully, and I have to say, there's nothing quite like slicing into a perfectly melted brie that oozes decadently onto a crisp cracker.

Created by

Flora Kensington

Last updated on 2026-01-06T14:26:35.017Z

I remember the first time I made a charcuterie board; it was for a romantic picnic on Valentine's Day. The centerpiece was a baked brie, and it was an absolute showstopper. I combined it with honey and a sprinkle of fresh herbs to elevate the flavor. It was a hit, and everyone kept coming back for more!

Since then, I've experimented with different accompaniments like dips, fruits, and artisan crackers. Every time I prepare it, I learn something new about flavor pairings. My favorite tip? Always include a mix of sweet and savory elements to keep the palate dancing!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy, warm brie that pairs perfectly with fresh fruits
Variety of textures and flavors to satisfy any palate
A visually stunning centerpiece for any gathering

      

Crafting the Perfect Cheese Experience

When selecting the brie for your charcuterie board, opt for a wheel that is ripe but not overly soft. The ideal brie should have a creamy interior that melts beautifully without falling apart completely. For the best flavor, go with an artisanal brand if possible. Additionally, you can play with the sweetness levels by adjusting the amount of honey; using a floral variety can enhance the flavor profile even more.

Don't forget the importance of texture. A balancing act between creamy brie and crunchy accompaniments can elevate your serving experience. Fresh crackers provide an ideal vessel for the warmth of the cheese while adding a satisfying crunch. Experiment with different varieties—like seeded or whole grain—while keeping in mind that they can also influence the overall taste of the board.

Flavor Pairings and Presentation Tips

The beauty of a charcuterie board lies in its versatility. When arranging your ingredients, think about contrasting flavors. Sweet fruits like grapes and strawberries work well with the salty cured meats like prosciutto and salami. This not only creates a delightful palette but also showcases a variety of tastes that entice your guests to try different combinations.

For presentation, consider using small bowls for the nuts and dried fruits to create visual interest. Group similar items together, allowing the colors and shapes to complement one another. For an elegant touch, garnish the board with fresh rosemary or edible flowers. This way, your charcuterie board becomes not just a meal, but a centerpiece that invites conversation.

Ingredients

Ingredients for the Charcuterie Board

For the Baked Brie

1 wheel of brie cheese
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Board

Assorted crackers
Sliced baguette
Fresh fruits (grapes, strawberries, apple slices)
Dried fruits (apricots, figs)
Nuts (almonds, walnuts)
Cured meats (prosciutto, salami)

Optional Accents

Instructions

How to Prepare

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the brie cheese on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Add Toppings

Drizzle honey over the top of the brie. Sprinkle with chopped rosemary, olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Bake the Brie

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Arrange the Board

While the brie is baking, arrange the assorted crackers, breads, fruits, nuts, and cured meats on a large serving board.

Serve and Enjoy

Once the brie is ready, remove it from the oven and place it in the center of your board. Serve warm with all the accompaniments!

Serving Suggestions

Pro Tips

For a visually appealing board, vary the heights of the items and use colorful fruits. Pair with a light wine for a romantic touch.

Make-Ahead Tips

Preparing for your Valentine's celebration can be a breeze by assembling certain components ahead of time. You can slice your fruits and arrange them in a container 2-3 hours prior to serving. Just remember to toss apple slices in a little lemon juice to prevent browning. The baked brie can also be prepped early; drizzle honey and cover it with the rosemary and spices before baking, saving you time during the actual event.

For the meats and cheeses, consider purchasing quality items the day before. Arranging the board can be done just before serving; keeping elements in the fridge until ready to display ensures everything is fresh, particularly the brie, which is best served warm.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftover baked brie, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For reheating, place the brie in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until it's warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it tends to make the cheese rubbery and can disrupt its creamy texture.

The accompanying ingredients can usually be stored together if they remain separate, but dried fruits and nuts generally keep best in airtight containers. Consume the fresh fruits within a day for the best flavor and texture; keeping apples and berries in the fridge can help prolong their life.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cheese instead of brie?

Absolutely! Camembert or another soft cheese would work beautifully.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Keep any leftover brie in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I prepare this board in advance?

You can prep the ingredients a few hours ahead, but bake the brie just before serving for the best texture.

→ What should I serve with the board?

A light white wine or sparkling water pairs wonderfully with the flavors of the board.