Poached Pear Wrapped in Brie, Baked in Puff Pastry

Published: November 16, 2025

by Alexia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Impressive Presentation: The golden puff pastry encasing the pear and brie makes for an eye-catching dish that is sure to wow your guests.
Rich Flavors: The combination of sweet poached pear, creamy brie, and the warmth of spices creates a complex flavor profile that is both comforting and sophisticated.
Versatile Serving Options: Perfect as an appetizer or dessert, this dish can be enjoyed at any time of day or during various occasions.
Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and easily accessible ingredients, you can create this gourmet treat without spending hours in the kitchen.

Tools and Preparation

To successfully make your Poached Pear Wrapped in Brie, Baked in Puff Pastry, you’ll need some essential tools. These will help streamline your preparation process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

A small pot
A cutting board
A sharp knife
Rolling pin
Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Pastry brush

Importance of Each Tool

Small pot: Ideal for poaching the pear evenly while allowing for easy stirring of ingredients.
Rolling pin: Ensures even thickness when rolling out the puff pastry for wrapping.
Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy base for baking, preventing spills and ensuring even cooking.

Poached Pear Wrapped in Brie, Baked in Puff Pastry

Ingredients

For the Poached Pear:

1 firm pear, peeled and cored from the bottom
200 ml apple vinegar
2 tbsp brown sugar
Zest of orange
1 cinnamon stick
2 whole cloves
Splash of balsamic vinegar (optional)

For the Wrapped Brie:

1 wheel brie or camembert (200-250 g)
1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Pinch of flaky salt or chopped rosemary (optional)

How to Make Poached Pear Wrapped in Brie, Baked in Puff Pastry

Step 1: Poach the Pear

In a small pot, combine apple vinegar, brown sugar, orange zest, cinnamon stick, cloves, and balsamic vinegar if using.
Add the peeled pear to the mixture.
Simmer gently for 20-25 minutes until tender.
Remove from heat and let cool in the liquid.

Step 2: Prep the Brie

Carefully slice the brie wheel in half horizontally.
Position the cooled pear upright on the bottom half of the brie.
Place the top half over the pear and gently press down to seal.

Step 3: Wrap in Pastry

Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a floured surface until it’s large enough to encase the brie and pear completely.
Wrap the puff pastry around the brie and pear securely.
Seal the edges underneath so that it stays closed during baking.
Place seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 4: Bake

Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F).
Brush the wrapped creation with beaten egg wash to achieve a golden finish.
Sprinkle with flaky salt or rosemary if desired.
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Allow resting for 5 minutes before slicing into this delightful dish!

How to Serve Poached Pear Wrapped in Brie, Baked in Puff Pastry

Serving Poached Pear Wrapped in Brie, Baked in Puff Pastry is a delightful experience. This dish combines the sweetness of poached pears and the creaminess of brie with the flaky texture of puff pastry, making it perfect for various occasions.

Elegant Dinner Parties

Serve as a main course alongside a fresh salad for a sophisticated meal.
Pair with a light white or herbal tea to complement the flavors.

Festive Gatherings

Present on a large platter for a stunning centerpiece that invites sharing.
Offer with assorted crackers or bread to enhance the tasting experience.

Cozy Family Nights

Slice into wedges and serve warm for an inviting family dessert.
Accompany with a scoop of vanilla or almond ice cream for added indulgence.

Romantic Dinners

Plate individually for an intimate setting, garnished with fresh herbs or edible flowers.
Pair with sparkling cider for a non-alcoholic toast.

How to Perfect Poached Pear Wrapped in Brie, Baked in Puff Pastry

Achieving perfection with your Poached Pear Wrapped in Brie, Baked in Puff Pastry can be simple with these helpful tips.

Choose the right pear: Select firm pears that won’t break down during poaching. Bartlett or Anjou varieties work well.
Control the poaching temperature: Keep the liquid at a gentle simmer to ensure even cooking without mushiness.
Cool properly: Allow the pear to cool in its poaching liquid for enhanced flavor absorption.
Seal well: Ensure the puff pastry is sealed tightly around the brie and pear to prevent leaks during baking.
Watch the baking time: Bake until golden brown; overbaking can dry out the brie and pastry.
Rest before slicing: Let it sit for about 5 minutes after baking to help set the filling and make slicing easier.

Best Side Dishes for Poached Pear Wrapped in Brie, Baked in Puff Pastry

Pairing side dishes with your Poached Pear Wrapped in Brie, Baked in Puff Pastry can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options:

Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables add color and nutrition while enhancing flavors.
Quinoa Pilaf: Fluffy quinoa mixed with herbs provides a hearty yet healthy complement.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes add comfort and warmth to your plate.
Caramelized Brussels Sprouts: Sweet and savory sprouts offer a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the pears.
Herbed Couscous: Light and fluffy couscous infused with herbs rounds out this elegant meal.
Steamed Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears provide a crisp texture that pairs beautifully.
Fruit Chutney: A tangy fruit chutney enhances flavors and adds an exciting twist.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Poached Pear Wrapped in Brie, Baked in Puff Pastry, avoid these common pitfalls.

Ignoring the pear’s ripeness: Always choose a firm pear. If too ripe, it may turn mushy when poached.
Overcooking the pastry: Watch your puff pastry closely while baking. Remove it once golden brown to avoid burning.
Not sealing properly: Ensure the edges of the pastry are well sealed. This prevents leakage of cheese and juices during baking.
Skipping egg wash: Brushing with egg wash gives a beautiful golden finish. Don’t skip this step for that shiny look!
Using too much filling: Be careful not to overstuff the brie and pear. A little goes a long way to keep everything intact.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
Consume within 2-3 days for best quality.

Freezing Poached Pear Wrapped in Brie, Baked in Puff Pastry

Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn.
Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Poached Pear Wrapped in Brie, Baked in Puff Pastry

Oven: Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake for about 15 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Use medium power for 1-2 minutes but be cautious as it can make the pastry soggy.
Stovetop: Place on low heat in a skillet covered with a lid for about 5-7 minutes until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best type of pear for poaching?

Bartlett or Anjou pears are ideal due to their firm texture and sweet flavor, making them perfect for poaching.

Can I substitute other cheeses instead of brie?

Yes! You can use camembert or even a soft goat cheese if you prefer a different flavor profile.

How long do I need to poach the pears?

Poach the pears gently for about 20-25 minutes until they are tender but not falling apart.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can poach the pears and assemble them wrapped in brie before baking. Just refrigerate until ready to bake.

What can I serve with Poached Pear Wrapped in Brie, Baked in Puff Pastry?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a mixed greens salad or can be served as an elegant appetizer at gatherings.

Final Thoughts

The Poached Pear Wrapped in Brie, Baked in Puff Pastry is not only visually stunning but also offers a delightful combination of flavors. Its versatility allows for various customization options; consider adding nuts or dried fruits for extra crunch. Give this recipe a try and impress your guests with this unique treat!