Brie En Croute

It's New Years Eve! That means that if you have young children, you will need to make a decision for your family: will you stay up until midnight or will you hunker down and go to sleep? I read online today some parents will show their children a pre-recorded New Year's Eve countdown and fireworks show on the internet so their kids will go to bed at their regular scheduled bedtime. If you ask me, I think that's brilliant. However, if you will be hosting or attending any type of celebratory gathering there is a good chance food will play a central role all through the night. Today I'm sharing a very impressive and elevated twist on cheese and crackers. 

This recipe for Brie en Croute uses a pre-made unbaked puff pastry sheet, which is wrapped around a round disk of creamy brie cheese that has been topped with raspberry jam. An egg-white wash is brushed all around the pastry covered cheese then baked to a beautiful, crispy, flaky, and golden brown hue. Cutting into the disk is like unwrapping a surprise gift. The jam oozes down and all around the cheese. Best served warm and with crackers. It is one of my favorite appetizers to make and enjoy because it seems so fancy, yet is so simple. Whether you stay up late enough just to watch the New Years Eve countdown on TV, party through the night, or decide to go to sleep early, I hope you transition into the New Year with a renewed sense of inspiration, creativity, love of life, and good food. Happy New Year!