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Ingredients
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Cheese plate
Method
Cheese plate
- 1
Prepare the brie
Remove the Brie from the refrigerator 30–60 minutes before serving to come to room temperature. Leaving it whole helps it warm evenly and reach a creamy texture.
- 2
Optional warm/soften (oven)
If you prefer a slightly oozing Brie, preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the whole wheel on a small baking sheet or in a shallow oven-safe dish. Score a shallow cross on the rind top with a sharp knife. Drizzle 1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil over the top, sprinkle 1/4 teaspoon coarse sea salt and a light grind (1/8 teaspoon) of black pepper, then scatter the toasted chopped walnuts and quartered figs over the top. Bake 8–12 minutes until the center is soft but the shape holds. Remove and let sit 2 minutes before transferring to the serving board.
- 3
Arrange accompaniments
Place the Brie wheel (warm or room temperature) on a serving board. Fan the crackers or baguette slices to one side. Arrange grape clusters, dried apricots, and remaining quartered figs around the cheese in small piles. Spoon honey into a small bowl or drizzle part of it over the top of the Brie and scatter a couple of thyme sprigs across the cheese for aroma and presentation.
- 4
Finish and serve
Sprinkle any remaining chopped walnuts around the board. If the Brie was warmed, transfer it on the board using a spatula. Place a small cheese knife nearby for guests to slice or spread. Serve immediately so the Brie is soft and spreadable; if served at room temperature, encourage guests to cut wedges and top with honey, figs, or nuts to taste.