Description
The Hidden Pearl is a decadent appetizer or dessert featuring a sweet poached pear wrapped in creamy Brie cheese, all encased in golden, flaky puff pastry. This elegant dish blends textures and flavors into a show-stopping centerpiece.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 large ripe pear, peeled and cored
- 2 cups water
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 strip lemon peel
- 4 oz Brie cheese (enough to fully wrap the pear)
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tbsp honey (optional, for drizzling)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a saucepan, combine water, sugar, cinnamon stick, and lemon peel. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer.
- Add the peeled and cored pear to the poaching liquid and simmer for 15–20 minutes until tender. Remove and let cool completely.
- Roll out the puff pastry slightly and place the Brie in the center. Place the cooled pear upright on the Brie.
- Wrap the Brie and pear entirely with the puff pastry, trimming excess and sealing the edges well. Optionally use trimmed pastry to create decorative leaves or accents.
- Brush the entire pastry with beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20–25 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown.
- Let cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Drizzle with honey before serving if desired.
Notes
- Choose a firm pear like Bosc or Anjou for best poaching results.
- Chill the poached pear before wrapping to prevent melting the Brie too quickly.
- Serve warm for the best texture and flavor contrast.
- This dish pairs beautifully with a glass of chilled white wine or champagne.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 wrapped pear
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 260mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Keywords: poached pear, brie, puff pastry, baked pear brie, elegant appetizer, holiday dessert