baked brie with maple caramelized apples and spiced praline bacon
Dorian Achterhof
Ingredients
- Baked Brie
- Maple Caramelized Apples
- Gala Apples, sliced
- Maple Syrup
- Butter
- Brown Sugar
- Ground Cinnamon
- Salt
- Spiced Praline Bacon
- Thick-Cut Bacon
- Light Brown Sugar
- Granulated Sugar
- Vanilla Extract
- Allspice
- Cinnamon
- Nutmeg
- Salt
- Additional Ingredients
- Chive or Onion Powder (optional, for extra flavor)
- Fresh Thyme Sprigs (for garnish, optional)
Use these ingredients to create a delicious baked brie dish that combines the rich flavors of caramelized apples with a spicy praline bacon topping. Perfect for any special occasion or holiday gathering!
Steps
### Baked Brie with Maple Caramelized Apples and Spiced Praline Bacon Recipe
#### Introduction
Baked brie has always been a crowd-pleaser at gatherings, but adding maple caramelized apples and spiced praline bacon can elevate this classic dish to an unforgettable culinary experience. Follow these detailed steps for a delicious and visually stunning appetizer that will impress your guests.
- Spices: ground cloves, allspice, and a pinch of cayenne pepper
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#### Equipment
- Baking dish large enough to fit the brie wheel
- Small skillet or non-stick pan
- Tongs for handling bacon
- Aluminum foil
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### Step 1: Preparing the Maple Caramelized Apples
1. **Peel and Core the Apples**: Use a vegetable peeler to remove the skin from the apples, then cut them in half and core each half.
2. **Slice the Apples Thinly**: Cut each apple half into thin slices (about 1/8 inch thick).
3. **Cooking the Apples**:
- In a small skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Add the apples to the pan and cook until they begin to soften, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, cloves, allspice, and cayenne pepper. Continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes or until the mixture thickens and caramelizes slightly.
- Remove from heat and set aside.
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### Step 2: Preparing the Spiced Praline Bacon
1. **Mix the Dry Ingredients**: In a small bowl, combine brown sugar with your chosen spices (cloves, allspice, cayenne pepper).
2. **Coat the Bacon**:
- Place bacon pieces in a single layer on a plate.
- Sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over the bacon and toss until each piece is well-coated.
3. **Caramelize the Bacon**:
- Heat a non-stick pan or skillet over medium heat.
- Add the bacon slices, making sure they are not overcrowded in the pan.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes on one side, until the bacon starts to crisp and turn golden brown.
- Flip the bacon pieces and cook for another 3-4 minutes.
- Remove from heat and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat.
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### Step 3: Baking the Brie
1. **Preheat Your Oven**: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. **Prepare the Baking Dish**:
- Place the brie in the center of a baking dish.
- Spoon the maple caramelized apples around and over the brie wheel, ensuring it is evenly coated.
3. **Top with Bacon**:
- Arrange the spiced praline bacon pieces on top of the apples.
4. **Bake**: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the brie has melted slightly and the toppings are golden brown.
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### Step 4: Serving
1. **Let It Cool Slightly**:
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes to prevent burning yourself.
2. **Serve**: Garnish with additional spices if desired, and serve warm with crackers or bread slices.
Enjoy your beautifully prepared Baked Brie with Maple Caramelized Apples and Spiced Praline Bacon! This dish is perfect for any holiday gathering or special occasion.