Whipped Brie with Garlic Confit and Fig Jam Recipe

If you’re looking to impress your guests with something both elegant and irresistibly delicious, Whipped Brie with Garlic Confit and Fig Jam is your go-to appetizer. This dreamy combination brings together the creamy, buttery goodness of whipped Brie, the sweet and subtle richness of fig jam, and the mellow, caramelized depth of slow-roasted garlic confit. Each bite offers a delightful harmony of textures and flavors that’s perfect for cozy gatherings or festive celebrations. Trust me, once you make this, it’ll quickly become one of your favorite party starters to share with friends and family!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Whipped Brie with Garlic Confit and Fig Jam lies in its simplicity, using just a handful of ingredients that each play a crucial role in building its complex flavor profile. Every element contributes to the overall harmony—creamy cheese, luscious fig jam, fragrant garlic, and fresh herbs come together to create something truly special.

• Peeled garlic cloves: Slow-roasting these softens their bite and transforms them into sweet, mellow morsels that elevate the dish.
• Olive oil: Used to gently cook the garlic, this also doubles as an infused drizzle that adds richness.
• Fresh thyme sprigs (optional): Adds a subtle herbal note that brightens the flavor of the garlic confit.
• Pinch of salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• Brie cheese: Choose a creamy, ripe Brie for the smoothest base.
• Cream cheese: Blended in for extra smoothness and to help the cheese whip beautifully.
• Heavy cream: Just enough to lighten the texture and make the Brie irresistibly fluffy.
• Fig jam: The sweet, fruity element that pairs perfectly with the tangy cheese and garlic.
• Fresh thyme leaves: For garnish, adding color and fresh aroma.
• Cracked black pepper: Adds a gentle spice kick to finish off the dish.
• Toasted baguette slices or crackers: For scooping and savoring every last bite.

How to Make Whipped Brie with Garlic Confit and Fig Jam

Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Confit

Begin by preheating your oven to a low 250°F (120°C). In a small oven-safe dish, nestle the peeled garlic cloves and cover them completely with olive oil. Toss in a few sprigs of fresh thyme if you have it on hand, and sprinkle a pinch of salt. Bake gently for 35 to 45 minutes until the garlic is meltingly soft and just golden. This slow cooking takes away any harshness and brings out its sweet, buttery characteristics. Let it cool slightly before moving on.

Step 2: Whip the Brie

While the garlic confit cools, get your food processor ready. Add the Brie (you can trim off the rind if you prefer, but it’s edible), cream cheese, and 1 to 2 tablespoons of heavy cream. Pulse and blend everything until it reaches a smooth, light, and whipped texture. You’ll want to stop and scrape down the sides a couple of times to ensure even blending. This whipped Brie forms a luscious base that’s both creamy and airy, perfect for spreading or scooping.

Step 3: Assemble the Dish

Spread the whipped Brie generously onto a pretty serving plate. Take the soft garlic cloves from your confit and spoon them on top, giving some a gentle mash to release even more flavor. Drizzle over a bit of the garlic-infused oil left in the baking dish for another layer of richness. Dollop on the fig jam, adding sweet bursts that perfectly contrast the savory cheese. Finally, sprinkle with fresh thyme leaves and crack some black pepper right over everything.

How to Serve Whipped Brie with Garlic Confit and Fig Jam

Garnishes

Fresh thyme leaves are a classic choice for garnishing this dish, lending a pop of green and a lovely herbal fragrance. A pinch of cracked black pepper adds slight heat and visual contrast. You might also try a few finely chopped toasted nuts like walnuts or pecans to add crunch and earthy notes.

Side Dishes

This appetizer pairs beautifully with simple yet flavorful sides. Serve it alongside crisp, toasted baguette slices or quality crackers—these sturdy vehicles let you enjoy every creamy and luscious mouthful. A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette makes a refreshing counterpoint, or some roasted seasonal vegetables complement the richness perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

To elevate your presentation, try serving the whipped Brie in a rustic wooden board or a shallow bowl. You can pipe it into pretty swirls using a piping bag for a fancy touch. For a cozy, inviting vibe, arrange the figs, bread, and whipped Brie on a large cheese platter with small bowls of garlic confit and fig jam nearby, allowing guests to help themselves.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, keep the whipped Brie covered tightly in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will maintain its creamy texture for up to 3 days. Keep the garlic confit and fig jam separate to preserve their flavors and textures.

Freezing

Freezing Whipped Brie with Garlic Confit and Fig Jam is not recommended because the texture of the cheese will change and become grainy upon thawing. Instead, enjoy it fresh for the best experience.

Reheating

The garlic confit can be gently reheated in a warm oven or on the stovetop to bring back its softness and aroma. However, avoid heating the whipped Brie itself; it is best served fresh and chilled or at room temperature to retain its fluffy texture.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese besides Brie?

While Brie’s creamy texture and mild flavor work best for this dish, you can experiment with Camembert or a soft goat cheese blend. Keep in mind that texture and taste will vary.

Is the garlic confit difficult to make?

Not at all! Garlic confit requires minimal hands-on time and a low oven temperature, making it an easy but impressive addition that enhances flavor beautifully.

Can I make the dish vegan?

This particular recipe relies on dairy for its signature creaminess, so it’s tough to replicate as vegan. However, you might try vegan cream cheese and plant-based cream alternatives along with a garlic confit made in olive oil for a similar vibe.

How long does the garlic confit keep in the fridge?

Stored submerged in olive oil and refrigerated, garlic confit can last up to two weeks. Just be sure to use a clean utensil each time to keep it fresh and safe.

What’s the best way to serve this for a party?

Serve the whipped Brie spread elegantly on a platter with garlic confit and fig jam placed nearby for guests to help themselves with their favorite crackers or bread. Adding fresh herbs and some colorful accompaniments makes the spread inviting and festive.

Final Thoughts

If you want to wow everyone with something elevated yet surprisingly simple, Whipped Brie with Garlic Confit and Fig Jam is a winner every time. Its beautiful blend of creamy, sweet, and savory flavors feels both indulgent and comforting. Once you try this, I’m confident it’ll be your go-to appetizer for every special occasion or casual get-together. So grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a dish that’s as delicious as it is memorable!

Print