Brie Cheese Appetizer

Great idea Jane! How funny that you mention it, I'm making it tonight for my sister-in-laws fare-well party!

Jesse and Kami were invited to Jane's home (Jesse's boss) for a wine and appetizer party. Jesse called me asking for ideas of an appetizer to make that would go well with a chardonnay. I suggested this Brie cheese pastry appetizer. It's amazing and you can really dress it up! It's creamy and savory, a perfect marriage with wine!

Brie Cheese Appetizer
1 package frozen pie crust (1 round), thawed
1/4 cup apricot jam
1 wedge Brie cheese, rind cut off
1 egg yolk, for wash
water crackers

On a lightly floured surface, unfold the prepared pie dough. Press together any seams that are torn. Roll the dough out to make a large circle.

Pour the jam in the center of the pie dough in the shape of a triangle. Place the Brie cheese wedge directly on top of the jam.

Gently fold the pie dough over the Brie and seal the edges. Cut off any excess dough, which will be used to cut shapes and placed on top of the cheese pastry for decoration. Roll out the excess dough, cut into shapes (leaves, grapes, vines, letters, strips, etc.) With a small dot of water 'glue' the shapes onto the cheese pastry top.
Brush the top and sides of the cheese pastry with beaten egg yolk for a glossy finish.

Bake in a 350 degree oven for 20-30 minutes, or till crust is golden brown and cheese may be oozing out.

Serve hot with water crackers, a goblet of delicious wine and a hearty appetite!