This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our disclosure policy
As the golden hues of autumn settle in and the air turns crisp, there’s no better time to indulge in comforting, homemade dishes that embrace the season’s flavors. This Brie and Pear Puff Pastry Tart is the perfect recipe for cozy gatherings or quiet evenings at home. Combining creamy brie, sweet pears, and crunchy walnuts, all wrapped in flaky puff pastry, it’s a true celebration of fall. With the warmth of thyme and a drizzle of honey, this tart is both simple and sophisticated—ideal for the season’s special moments.
Why This Tart is Perfect for Any Occasion
This Brie and Pear Puff Pastry Tart combines simple, high-quality ingredients to create a dish that feels luxurious without being complicated. The puff pastry provides a light and flaky base, while the combination of brie and pears delivers a beautiful contrast of creamy and sweet. The walnuts add crunch, and the thyme brings a subtle herbaceous note that ties everything together.
The tart can be served as an appetizer, a light lunch, or even as part of a festive spread for holidays or special occasions. It’s a great way to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The folded-edge design not only makes the tart look more refined but also helps keep the ingredients neatly in place during baking.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Puff Pastry: The backbone of this tart. Store-bought puff pastry is a time-saver and gives the tart its irresistible flaky crust.
- Brie Cheese: Creamy and mild, brie melts beautifully and pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the pears.
- Pear: A ripe pear adds just the right amount of natural sweetness and pairs wonderfully with the cheese.
- Walnuts: Roughly chopped for a touch of crunch, adding texture to every bite.
- Thyme: Dry thyme adds an aromatic, slightly earthy flavor that enhances both the cheese and pear.
- Egg Yolk: Used to brush the edges for a beautiful golden finish.
- Honey, Chili Flakes, and Fresh Basil (for garnish): A drizzle of honey brings everything together with a light sweetness, while chili flakes provide optional heat. Fresh basil leaves finish the dish with a burst of color and fresh flavor.
Tips for Perfection
- Thaw the Puff Pastry Properly: If using frozen puff pastry, be sure to thaw it in the fridge for a few hours. Working with semi-frozen puff pastry can cause cracking or uneven baking.
- Choose a Ripe Pear: A ripe pear adds the right amount of sweetness and softness. Bartlett or Bosc pears work particularly well in this recipe.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to swap the thyme for rosemary or add a sprinkle of sea salt for an extra flavor boost.
- Serve Warm: The tart is best served warm, straight from the oven when the cheese is gooey and the pastry is crisp.
Storage
If you have leftovers, store the Brie and Pear Puff Pastry Tart in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to maintain its crispness. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the puff pastry soggy.
Recipe Variations
- Swap the pear for thinly sliced apples, like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, for a slightly tart flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy brie.
- Replace brie with goat cheese and use fresh or dried figs instead of pear for a rich, tangy twist.
- Add thin slices of prosciutto on top of the pear and brie for a savory-sweet combination.Add a layer of caramelized onions before the brie for a deeper, savory flavor that complements the sweetness of the pears.
More Recipes You’ll Love
Burrata and Grilled Peach Toast
Brie and Pear Puff Pastry Tart
Equipment
- Small bowl (for beating egg yolk)
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry thawed if frozen
- 1 wheel of brie cheese (approx. 200g), thinly sliced
- 2 ripe pear thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup walnuts roughly chopped
- 1/2 tsp dry thyme
- 1 egg yolk for brushing the edges
For Garnish:
- Honey (for drizzling)
- Chili flakes (optional, to taste)
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle (about 10×12 inches) and place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Gently fold the edges of the puff pastry inward to create a rustic border. Press lightly to seal the folds.
- Layer the brie slices evenly across the center of the puff pastry, leaving the edges exposed. Arrange the pear slices on top of the brie.
- Beat the egg yolk and brush it over the folded edges of the pastry.
- Sprinkle the walnuts and dry thyme evenly over the top.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and the brie has melted.
- Drizzle honey over the tart, sprinkle with chili flakes (if desired), and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve warm and enjoy!
