Welcome to the recipe that will instantly elevate any gathering, whether it’s a holiday party, a casual weekend brunch, or a sophisticated cocktail hour. These exquisite Brie & Jam Pastry Appetizers often affectionately called Baked Brie Bites are the epitome of simple elegance. They deliver a perfect balance of flaky, golden puff pastry, warm, creamy Brie cheese, and a burst of sweet, tangy jam.
Forget spending hours in the kitchen crafting complicated hors d’oeuvres. This recipe for Elegant Baked Brie and Raspberry Jam Pastry Bites is designed for maximum impact with minimal effort. Using just five primary ingredients and about 20 minutes of hands-on time, you can produce a batch of gourmet appetizers that look stunning and taste even better. This is not just a snack; it’s a centerpiece.
The magic truly happens in the oven. As the puff pastry rises and turns deep golden brown, the cold Brie melts into a luxurious, gooey center, perfectly cradling the sweet jam. When served warm, these bites offer a contrasting symphony of textures and temperatures that is utterly addictive. If you are looking for a show-stopping dish that is guaranteed to receive compliments, you have found it. Let’s dive into how you can easily master the art of making flawless, melt-in-your-mouth Brie & Jam Pastry Appetizers today.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 15–18 minutes
Yields: 12 to 15 appetizers
Why You’ll Fall in Love with These Elegant Puff Pastry Appetizers
The appeal of these Brie & Jam Pastry Appetizers extends far beyond their sophisticated appearance. They hit every desirable mark for entertaining, offering a foolproof method to impress your guests without the stress traditionally associated with gourmet cooking. Here are several compelling reasons why this recipe will quickly become a fixture in your rotation:
1. Unbeatable Flavor Harmony
The combination of creamy, slightly earthy Brie and bright, sweet jam (especially the classic Raspberry Jam) is a pairing made in culinary heaven. When baked inside light, buttery puff pastry, the flavors meld into a complex but comforting experience. The saltiness of the Brie rind, the sweetness of the fruit, and the richness of the butter in the pastry create a complete flavor profile it’s sweet, savory, and rich all at once. If you appreciate the delicate balance found in simple, high-quality ingredients, these Baked Brie Bites will be your new favorite. Unlike heavier appetizers, these remain light despite the richness of the cheese, making them ideal for pacing a meal.
2. The Perfect Texture Contrast
Texture is everything in a great appetizer, and these Brie & Jam Pastry Appetizers deliver a masterclass in contrast. You get the crispy, flaky shatter of the puff pastry shell upon first bite, followed immediately by the warm, liquid creaminess of the melted Brie, and finally, the soft stickiness of the jam. This layered texture experience is what makes them so profoundly satisfying. The structure of the pastry means they are easy to hold and eat in two to three bites, making them ideal for standing receptions or cocktail parties.
3. Remarkable Speed and Simplicity
Despite appearing complex, the recipe leverages the convenience of high-quality frozen ingredients. Puff pastry is a baker’s secret weapon, providing professional-level results without the hours of lamination work. The use of pre-made jam and a small wheel of Brie means minimal preparation. From the freezer to the oven, you can have a batch of these exquisite Baked Brie Bites ready in under 40 minutes total. This is a crucial factor when juggling multiple dishes for an event, allowing you to focus time and energy on other elements, such as preparing a vibrant Spanish side like Chorizo a la Sidra or a comforting dessert.
4. Versatility for Any Occasion
While the name suggests elegance, these appetizers are surprisingly versatile. They are perfect for formal holiday gatherings (think Christmas or New Year’s Eve), but they are equally fitting for a relaxed weekend football game or a simple afternoon tea. Because they utilize classic, recognizable ingredients, they appeal to almost every palate. Furthermore, their small, individual size ensures effortless portion control and presentation. They look stunning arranged simply on a platter, perhaps garnished with a sprig of rosemary or a dusting of powdered sugar.
5. High “Wow Factor”
The visual impact of these golden-brown pastry parcels is undeniable. The rich color provided by the egg wash, the perfect puffiness of the dough, and the subtle sight of the melted cheese peeking out generate immediate curiosity and excitement. Serving individual Brie & Jam Pastry Appetizers elevates the standard presentation of traditional baked Brie, offering guests a personalized, gourmet experience. Just like the impressive presentation of a creamy Tarta de Queso Vasca, these bites promise a memorable finish to any gathering.
Why You Should Try This Recipe Now: Mastering the Art of Easy Entertaining
If you’ve been hesitant to bake with puff pastry or try an appetizer involving cheese, this recipe is your perfect starting point. It requires very little specialized technique but yields exceptionally professional results. Trying this recipe for Brie & Jam Pastry Appetizers is not just about making a snack; it’s about adding a reliable, highly praised recipe to your culinary arsenal that saves you time and stress.
Ease of Execution: The Power of Puff Pastry
Many recipes rely on homemade doughs or complex folding techniques. These Raspberry Brie Pastry bites bypass all that effort. Frozen puff pastry is the secret weapon of caterers and professional chefs for a reason: it’s perfectly layered and rises consistently every time. The most technically challenging part thawing the pastry is easily managed by following the package directions. Even the assembly involves a simple four-corner fold, which, while needing a good pinch, doesn’t require advanced skills. This simplicity makes the Brie & Jam Pastry Appetizers accessible to novice cooks while still satisfying experienced bakers looking for speed.
The Cold Brie Advantage
A major tip in this recipe is cutting the Brie while it is cold. If you try to cut soft or room-temperature Brie, it will mush and stick to your knife, making clean, even cubes impossible. By keeping the cheese well-chilled, you achieve those perfect 3/4-inch squares that sit neatly on the jam dollop. This minor preparation step ensures your final pastries cook evenly and look uniform. When the assembly is precise, the outcome is always better a key lesson in simple baking.
Customization and Dietary Adaptability
While the recipe focuses on classic flavors, it is highly customizable. Do you prefer something tart? Use apricot jam. Craving something deeper and more savory? Fig jam works wonderfully. You can also experiment with different cheeses, such as Camembert (which is similar to Brie but firmer) or goat cheese (for a tangier profile). For those needing gluten-free options, several frozen gluten-free puff pastry brands are now available, making these Brie & Jam Pastry Appetizers enjoyable for everyone. This adaptability ensures the recipe remains useful regardless of your guests’ specific preferences or dietary needs.
Perfect Serving Temperature
One critical reason to try this recipe immediately is understanding the serving temperature. These Baked Brie Bites are not meant to be served piping hot; they need 5 to 10 minutes to cool. During this brief rest period, the molten Brie sets slightly, moving from liquid to perfectly gooey. Serving them warm prevents the cheese from flowing out excessively when bitten into and ensures the flavors are fully developed. Mastering this serving timing is the final touch of perfection for these elegant small pastries.
Cost-Effective Gourmet Appetizers
For the quality and gourmet feel they provide, these appetizers are surprisingly cost-effective. A single sheet of puff pastry and a small wheel of Brie yield 12 to 15 substantial bites. Compared to purchasing ready-made appetizers from a bakery or catering service, making your own Easy Party Snacks saves significant money without compromising on flavor or presentation. This makes the Brie & Jam Pastry Appetizers an intelligent choice for budget-conscious hosts aiming for luxury.
Ingredients and Necessary Utensils: Achieving Perfection in Brie & Jam Pastry Appetizers
The beauty of this recipe lies in its incredibly short ingredient list. Success hinges entirely on the quality of these few components and the use of the right basic kitchen tools. This section details the necessary items and the rationale behind each choice, ensuring your batch of Baked Brie Bites is flawless.
Detailed Ingredients List
Achieving perfect Brie & Jam Pastry Appetizers starts with precise quantities and understanding how each element contributes to the final product. We divide the list into the core filling components and the simple egg wash:
Pastry and Filling
- 1 Sheet (approx. 14.1 ounces) Frozen Puff Pastry: The foundation of our appetizer. It must be thawed correctly usually 30–40 minutes at room temperature until pliable but still cold. Using a high-quality all-butter puff pastry (if available) will significantly enhance the final flavor, adding an extra layer of richness to the Brie & Jam Pastry Appetizers.
- 1 Small Wheel (4 to 6 ounces) of Brie Cheese: Use a standard size small Brie wheel. Ensure it is well-chilled before cutting. The rind is essential here; it helps the cheese maintain its shape and contain the molten interior slightly as it bakes, contributing a subtle textural complexity to the Baked Brie Bites.
- 1/2 Cup Raspberry Jam, Apricot Jam, or Fig Jam: Choose a thick, high-quality variety. Seedless raspberry is classic, offering a tart counterpoint to the creamy Brie. Fig jam provides a more sophisticated, slightly savory note, making these Brie & Jam Pastry Appetizers perfect for pairing with red wine. Avoid thin, watery preserves, as they are more likely to leak out during baking.
- 1 Tablespoon All-Purpose Flour: Strictly for dusting the work surface. This prevents the delicate puff pastry from sticking, tearing, or warming up too quickly during the cutting and assembly process.
Egg Wash
- 1 Large Egg: Provides the protein needed for the wash.
- 1 Teaspoon Water or Milk: Dilutes the egg slightly, making it easier to brush and ensuring a smooth, even, glossy coating. Milk tends to create a slightly richer, browner finish, while water provides maximum shine.
Essential Tools and Utensils for Puff Pastry Success
While this recipe doesn’t require complex kitchen machinery, having the right tools on hand makes the preparation of these elegant Puff Pastry Appetizers significantly smoother and faster. Investing in a few basics will ensure professional results every time you make Brie & Jam Pastry Appetizers.
Required Kitchen Utensils:
- Large Baking Sheet: Essential for holding all 12-15 squares. Ensure it is sturdy and flat to promote even heat distribution.
- Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat: Absolutely mandatory. Puff pastry is buttery and prone to sticking. Using parchment or a silicone mat ensures easy removal and prevents scorching the bottoms of your Brie & Jam Pastry Appetizers.
- Sharp Knife or Pizza Cutter: Necessary for cleanly cutting the pastry sheet into uniform squares. A dull knife will drag and compress the pastry layers, which inhibits the rise (the “puff”).
- Ruler or Measuring Tape (Optional but Recommended): Since uniformity is key for professional-looking Easy Party Snacks, a quick measure ensures all squares are approximately 2.5 to 3 inches.
- Small Bowl and Fork/Whisk: Used specifically for mixing the egg wash.
- Pastry Brush: Crucial for applying the egg wash evenly. A silicone or natural bristle brush works well, provided you use it lightly to avoid pooling the egg wash.
- Cutting Board: For preparing and cubing the cold Brie cheese.
- Tines of a Fork: Used for firmly sealing the edges of the pastry bundles (crimping). This step is essential to prevent the jam and cheese from escaping during the rigorous heat of the oven.
By preparing your ingredients (especially ensuring the Brie is cold and the pastry is still cool) and having these simple tools ready, you streamline the assembly process, which is the most time-sensitive part of making successful Brie & Jam Pastry Appetizers.
Detailed Recipe Steps: Assembling Perfect Brie & Jam Pastry Appetizers
Follow these steps precisely to ensure your puff pastry achieves its maximum rise and your fillings remain safely contained, resulting in perfect Baked Brie Bites every time. The key is to work quickly, keeping the dough cold.
Part 1: Preparation and Cutting
- Preheat the Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Adjust an oven rack to the middle position. Preheat the oven rigorously to 400°F (200°C). High heat is essential for activating the layers in the puff pastry. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Thaw the Puff Pastry: Ensure the sheet is thawed but still very cold. If the pastry feels sticky or soft, place it in the refrigerator for 5–10 minutes before proceeding. Unfold the pastry sheet carefully onto a lightly floured work surface. Do not over-flour; use just enough to prevent sticking.
- Cut the Pastry: Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the puff pastry sheet into 12 to 15 equal squares. Aim for squares measuring approximately 2.5 to 3 inches per side. Work efficiently here to minimize dough warming.
- Prepare the Brie: While the Brie is still chilled, use a sharp knife to cut the cheese into small, uniform cubes. Each piece should be approximately 3/4-inch square, ensuring the rind remains intact on each piece. Yield enough pieces to place one cube onto each pastry square. Cutting the Brie while cold is crucial for clean, manageable cubes.
Part 2: Assembly
- Lay Out the Squares: Transfer all the cut pastry squares onto the prepared baking sheet. Space them out slightly (about 1 inch apart) to allow ample room for expansion during baking. Overcrowding will compromise the rise of your Brie & Jam Pastry Appetizers.
- Add the Jam: Place a small, centered dollop of your chosen jam (about 1/2 to 3/4 teaspoon) onto the center of each puff pastry square. Warning: Be careful not to use too much jam. Excess jam will boil and inevitably leak out, causing sticky, burnt spots on the parchment paper and potentially fusing the pastry seams shut.
- Place the Brie: Gently place one square of the cut Brie cheese directly on top of the jam layer on each pastry square. Ensure the cheese cube is centered over the jam.
- Form the Appetizers (The Envelope Fold): This is the key folding technique for beautiful, secure Raspberry Brie Pastry pockets.
- Take two opposing corners of the pastry square and bring them together over the top of the cheese. Pinch these corners firmly together.
- Then, take the remaining two opposing corners and bring them up to meet the first two corners at the central point.
You should now have a bundle where all four corners meet at the center, leaving small diamond-shaped openings where the filling is visible.
- Seal the Edges: This step provides necessary security. Pinch all four seams together firmly to create a secure bundle. For extra reinforcement and a classic, decorative touch, use the tines of a fork to press down along the seams and edges of the pastry. A firm seal prevents leakage and is non-negotiable for successful Brie & Jam Pastry Appetizers.
Part 3: Baking and Finishing
- Prepare the Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk the large egg with the teaspoon of water or milk until well combined. This simple mixture provides the characteristic rich, golden-brown color and a beautiful glossy finish that makes these Easy Party Snacks look so professional.
- Apply the Egg Wash: Using a clean pastry brush, lightly brush the tops and sides of each assembled pastry appetizer with the egg wash. Crucial Tip: Avoid letting the egg wash pool around the base of the pastry, as this can impede the crucial layer separation (the “puff”) along the bottom edges.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet into the preheated 400°F (200°C) oven. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes. The appetizers are done when the puff pastry is fully puffed, beautifully golden brown, and the Brie cheese is visibly soft (you might see small amounts of melted cheese just peeking out of the seams). If you notice them browning too quickly, you can reduce the temperature to 375°F (190°C) for the last few minutes.
- Cool and Serve: Carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Let the appetizers cool on the baking sheet for at least 5 to 10 minutes before attempting to serve them. The filling will be extremely hot and needs time to set slightly. Serving Tip: Serve warm, not piping hot, for the best flavor and texture. For more presentation ideas and sharing beautiful food photography, follow my boards on Pinterest.
Tips, Variations, and Troubleshooting for Brie & Jam Pastry Appetizers
While the core recipe is straightforward, small adjustments can tailor these appetizers to any season or dietary need. Understanding potential pitfalls will also ensure your baking experience is frustration-free.
Ingredient Alternatives and Flavor Variations
Cheese Swaps:
- Camembert: A common and excellent substitute for Brie. It often has a slightly stronger flavor and a thinner rind, which melts beautifully.
- Goat Cheese (Chèvre): For a tangier profile, crumble firm goat cheese into the center instead of a solid cube. Pair this with fig or honey jam for a gourmet contrast.
- Cream Cheese: If Brie is unavailable or too rich, use a small cube of high-quality cream cheese mixed with a teaspoon of powdered sugar for a simpler, sweeter filling.
Jam and Flavor Pairings:
While Brie & Jam Pastry Appetizers are famous for the raspberry contrast, feel free to experiment:
- Sweet Citrus: Orange marmalade or lemon curd offers a refreshing, tart kick, especially suitable for springtime gatherings.
- Savory Indulgences: For a purely savory appetizer, swap the jam for caramelized onions, a small dollop of pesto, or sun-dried tomato paste. Finish these savory Baked Brie Bites with a pinch of black pepper or herbs like thyme before folding.
- Honey & Nuts: Skip the jam altogether and place a teaspoon of honey and a few crushed pecans or walnuts over the Brie before sealing.
Dietary Adaptations
- Gluten-Free: The biggest hurdle is the pastry. Look for ready-made gluten-free puff pastry (which is becoming increasingly available in freezer sections). The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
- Vegan/Dairy-Free: This requires two swaps: use a dairy-free puff pastry (many commercial brands are accidentally vegan, but always check labels) and substitute the Brie with a high-quality vegan cashew-based soft cheese designed for baking. Replace the egg wash with a simple wash of non-dairy milk (like almond milk) mixed with a tiny pinch of sugar for browning.
Troubleshooting Common Mistakes
Issue 1: Leaking Filling
The number one complaint when making Puff Pastry Appetizers with cheese and jam is leakage.
Solution:
- Use less jam (maximum 3/4 teaspoon).
- Ensure your sealing is robust. Pinch the corners firmly, then use a fork to crimp all seams. This is your insurance policy.
- Do not overfill; keep the Brie cubes modest.
Issue 2: Pastry Did Not Puff
If your pastry looks flat and dense rather than light and airy, one of two things likely happened:
Solution:
- The dough got too warm: Puff pastry needs to be cold when entering the oven. If your kitchen is hot or you worked too slowly, the butter melted.
- Egg wash pooling: If the egg wash pools around the base or the sides, it glues the layers together, preventing them from separating and rising correctly. Brush lightly!
Issue 3: Burnt Edges/Underbaked Center
If the pastry browns too fast before the cheese fully melts, the oven temperature may be slightly too high, or your oven runs hot.
Solution: Ensure your oven thermometer is accurate. If the tops are beautifully golden after 10 minutes but the time isn’t up, loosely tent the appetizers with aluminum foil for the remaining 5–8 minutes. This protects the color while allowing the heat to finish melting the cheese.
By keeping the dough cold and sealing the edges carefully, you guarantee a batch of visually appealing, leak-free Brie & Jam Pastry Appetizers every time.
Nutritional Values and Benefits of These Easy Party Snacks
While these Brie & Jam Pastry Appetizers are undoubtedly an indulgence, understanding their nutritional profile can help you appreciate them as part of a balanced diet, particularly when enjoying them as part of a celebratory meal. Please note that nutritional values provided here are estimates, as ingredients (especially puff pastry brands and jam sugar content) vary significantly.
Estimated Nutritional Breakdown (Per Appetizer, 14 servings)
| Nutrient | Estimated Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 140–160 kcal | Primarily derived from fat (pastry butter/Brie) and carbohydrates (pastry/jam sugar). |
| Total Fat | 10–12 g | High due to the butter in the puff pastry and the fat content of the Brie cheese. |
| Saturated Fat | 6–8 g | Typical of dairy products. |
| Carbohydrates | 9–12 g | Source: Flour and the natural/added sugars in the jam. |
| Protein | 4–5 g | Provided by the egg wash and the Brie cheese. |
| Sodium | 120–150 mg | Due to salt in the pastry and cheese. |
Nutritional Benefits and Ingredient Insights
The Power of Brie Cheese
Brie is an excellent source of protein and fat, which contributes to satiety. Like other soft cheeses, Brie contains a decent amount of calcium and phosphorus, vital for bone health. The fermentation process involved in making Brie introduces beneficial probiotics, which support gut health. While high in saturated fat, consuming these Baked Brie Bites in moderation allows you to enjoy the flavor and nutritional benefits of the cheese without overindulging.
Antioxidants from the Jam
If you choose Raspberry Jam, you benefit from the fruit’s high antioxidant content. Raspberries are rich in Vitamin C and quercetin, which can help combat free radicals and reduce inflammation. Choosing a jam variety with lower added sugar or using a homemade fruit preserve can enhance the health benefits of your Brie & Jam Pastry Appetizers further. Apricot jam, meanwhile, provides Vitamin A and dietary fiber.
Puff Pastry and Energy
Puff pastry is primarily a source of complex carbohydrates and fats, making these appetizers quite energy-dense. This rapid energy boost is perfect for kickstarting a festive gathering. The carbohydrates in the pastry provide the body with immediate fuel, making these Raspberry Brie Pastry bites a satisfying and fueling treat.
In short, while these are an appetizer designed for enjoyment, they provide solid protein, calcium, and antioxidants from the fruit component. Enjoying two or three of these Brie & Jam Pastry Appetizers is a delicious way to enjoy rich flavors without excessive portion commitment, unlike larger baked Brie preparations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Brie & Jam Pastry Appetizers
Hosts often have questions about preparation, storage, and customization when tackling baked Brie recipes. We address the most common inquiries regarding these elegant Brie & Jam Pastry Appetizers below.
Can I prepare Brie & Jam Pastry Appetizers ahead of time?
Yes, assembly can be completed up to 24 hours in advance. Complete steps 1 through 9, including the sealing of the edges. Place the assembled but un-washed appetizers on the parchment-lined baking sheet, cover loosely with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. Just before baking, apply the egg wash and proceed to step 12. This is one of the biggest advantages of making these easy Baked Brie Bites.
Why does the recipe insist on using cold Brie cheese?
Brie cheese becomes very soft and sticky at room temperature, making it nearly impossible to cut into clean, uniform cubes. Keeping the Brie chilled ensures precise cuts (3/4-inch squares) that fit neatly onto the pastry squares. These precise shapes are necessary for neat folding and even baking, guaranteeing success with your Puff Pastry Appetizers.
What is the best type of jam to use, other than raspberry, for Brie & Jam Pastry Appetizers?
Fig jam or apricot jam are the two most popular alternatives, offering a slightly more sophisticated flavor profile. Fig jam is deeply savory-sweet and pairs beautifully with the earthy notes of Brie. Apricot jam provides a bright, acidic counterpoint. Crucially, regardless of the flavor, always choose a high-quality, thick preserve that will not turn overly liquid when heated.
How do I store and reheat leftover Baked Brie Bites?
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, though they are best eaten the day they are made. Reheat the Easy Party Snacks in a toaster oven or standard oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 to 8 minutes. Microwaving is not recommended, as it will make the pastry soggy.
Can I use crescent roll dough instead of puff pastry for this recipe?
While you technically can use crescent roll dough, the results will differ significantly. Crescent dough is yeast-leavened and results in a softer, breadier texture rather than the light, airy flakiness of puff pastry. For true Brie & Jam Pastry Appetizers, the flaky layers of puff pastry are essential to balance the rich, gooey filling.
Conclusion: Mastering Elegant Entertaining with Brie & Jam Pastry Appetizers
The journey to crafting perfect Brie & Jam Pastry Appetizers is one of minimal steps but maximal reward. This guide has shown that true culinary elegance doesn’t require hours of complex labor; it relies on smart ingredient choices and precise execution of simple techniques. By embracing the convenience of frozen puff pastry, keeping your Brie chilled for perfect cuts, and ensuring a robust seal on your little pastry bundles, you unlock an appetizer that is both sophisticated and utterly effortless.
These Baked Brie Bites are more than just a quick snack; they are a guarantee of warmth, flavor, and visual appeal. Whether you opt for the classic raspberry pairing or venture into the savory world of fig and thyme, these individual servings of baked goodness are universally loved. They serve as the perfect welcome for guests, setting a celebratory tone without overwhelming the palate before the main course. Just remember the golden rules: keep the dough cold, use a minimal amount of jam, and let them rest for that crucial 5-10 minutes post-bake.
We encourage you to try this recipe for your next event. Once you see how quickly these elegant Brie & Jam Pastry Appetizers disappear from the platter, you will understand why they are a professional caterer’s best-kept secret. Don’t forget to explore our other quick, crowd-pleasing recipes like our guide to the ultimate Basque Cheesecake or our favorite fast appetizers. If you enjoyed creating these delightful bites, please share this article with fellow food enthusiasts and leave a comment below letting us know which jam variety you chose!

Elegant Baked Brie and Raspberry Jam Pastry Bites
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Ensure the puff pastry sheet is fully thawed but still cold enough to handle. Unfold the pastry sheet onto a lightly floured work surface.
- Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the puff pastry sheet into 12 to 15 equal squares (approx. 2.5 to 3 inches per side).
- While the Brie is still chilled, cut the cheese into small cubes (about 3/4-inch square), ensuring the rind remains intact. You will need one cube for each pastry square.
- Lay all the cut pastry squares onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them out slightly. Place a small, centered dollop of jam (about 1/2 to 3/4 teaspoon) onto the center of each square, followed immediately by one cube of Brie cheese on top of the jam layer.
- To form the pocket, take two opposing corners of the pastry square and bring them together over the top of the cheese. Pinch these corners firmly together. Repeat with the remaining two opposing corners, bringing them up to meet the center point.
- Pinch all four seams together firmly to create a secure bundle. For extra security, use the tines of a fork to press down along the seams and edges of the pastry to help prevent leaks.
- Prepare the Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk the large egg with the teaspoon of water or milk until well combined. Using a pastry brush, lightly brush the tops and sides of each assembled appetizer with the egg wash. Avoid letting the wash pool near the base.
- Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the puff pastry is fully puffed, beautifully golden brown, and the Brie cheese is melted and slightly visible.
- Remove from the oven and let the appetizers cool on the baking sheet for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. Serve warm, as the filling is extremely hot right out of the oven.