Creamy Brie with Prosciutto

This creamy brie cheese dip combines the rich smoothness of whipped brie with the salty crunch of crispy prosciutto and pistachios, all elevated by a hint of sweet honey. It makes an elegant yet easy appetizer perfect for entertaining or cozy nights in.

I first served this dip at a casual gathering, and it quickly became the star of the party. The balance of creamy, salty, sweet, and crunchy keeps everyone coming back for more.

Ingredients

• Brie cheese: thirteen to sixteen ounces without the rind – choose a creamy and well-aged block for best flavor
• Prosciutto: four slices – look for thinly sliced and fresh to crisp beautifully in the oven
• Honey: two to three tablespoons – hot honey if you like a little spice or regular honey for sweetness
• Roasted shelled pistachios: two to three tablespoons lightly salted – adds texture and a nutty contrast
• Fresh herbs such as thyme and rosemary: optional – use fresh sprigs to brighten and garnish

Instructions

Softer the Brie:

Use a sharp knife to carefully remove the rind from the chilled brie. Cut the cheese into cubes. Let the cubes sit at room temperature for about fifteen minutes to soften. This will help them whip up smoothly.

Prepare the Prosciutto:

Preheat your oven to four hundred twenty five degrees Fahrenheit. Lay the prosciutto slices loosely shaped into little nests on a baking sheet. Bake for ten to twelve minutes or until crispy. Remove and let cool, then chop into small bite-sized pieces.

Whip the Brie:

Place the brie cubes into a food processor. Pulse for three minutes to start breaking down the cheese. Scrape down the sides with a rubber spatula to gather all the cheese. Pulse for another three minutes. Scrape the sides again, then continue whipping for two more minutes until the brie is light, fluffy, and creamy.

Assemble and Serve:

Transfer the whipped brie to a serving bowl and spread it out evenly with a spoon. Drizzle the hot or regular honey over the top. Sprinkle the crispy chopped prosciutto pieces and roasted pistachios across the surface. Finish with scattered fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs if using. Serve immediately with crackers or baguette slices.

The pistachios are my favorite ingredient here because they provide a wonderful crunch that balances the silky cheese. I remember making this for a holiday party and watching friends’ eyes light up with each bite, it’s that kind of crowd-pleaser.

Storage Tips

This dip is best served fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Because the whipped texture may firm up, give it a quick stir to bring it back to creaminess before serving. Avoid freezing as the texture will degrade.

Ingredient Substitutions

If prosciutto is not available, try using crispy cooked bacon or pancetta for a similar salty crunch. For a nut-free version, sunflower seeds toasted lightly work as a good alternative to pistachios. Honey can be replaced with maple syrup for a different but complimentary sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the dip with crisp crackers such as water crackers or thin baguette slices toasted just golden. Fresh vegetables like cucumber rounds or celery sticks also pair nicely. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top can help elevate the flavor even more.

Seasonal Adaptations

In winter months, add a pinch of smoked paprika or a few dried chili flakes for warmth. During spring and summer, fresh herbs like basil or chives can replace the thyme and rosemary for brighter notes. Switching to wildflower honey in peak honey season adds a fragrant touch.

This dip is elegantly simple yet impressive, perfect for both casual gatherings and special occasions.

FAQs about Recipes

→ How do I soften the brie for whipping?

Let the brie sit at room temperature after removing the rind. This softens the cheese, making it easier to whip into a fluffy texture.

→ What temperature and time are ideal for baking prosciutto?

Preheat the oven to 425°F and bake prosciutto slices for 10-12 minutes until they become crisp and golden brown.

→ Can I substitute pistachios with other nuts?

Yes, you can replace pistachios with roasted almonds or walnuts for a different crunch and flavor profile.

→ What types of honey work best for drizzling?

Both hot honey and regular honey complement the dish well, adding a sweet and slightly spicy or floral note.

→ Are fresh herbs necessary for the final touch?

Fresh thyme or rosemary are optional but enhance aroma and add a subtle herbal contrast to the creamy and salty flavors.