How to Make Hawaiian Style Baked Brie with Pineapple & Mango
If you’re searching for a delightful appetizer that bursts with tropical charm and creamy indulgence, look no further than Hawaiian Style Baked Brie with Pineapple & Mango. This mouthwatering recipe blends luscious melted brie cheese with sweet, juicy pineapple and mango, creating a harmonious fusion of flavors that everyone will adore. Perfect for parties, family gatherings, or a special treat, this baked brie elevates any table with its vibrant colors and irresistible taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tropical Twist: The combination of pineapple and mango adds a refreshing, sweet contrast to the creamy brie.
- Simple Preparation: Minimal ingredients and straightforward steps make it easy to prepare even for beginners.
- Visually Stunning: The golden baked brie topped with tropical fruits creates an eye-catching centerpiece.
- Versatile Serving: Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even a light dessert option.
- Guaranteed Crowd-Pleaser: The unique blend of sweet and savory flavors satisfies all kinds of palates.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses a handful of simple yet flavorful ingredients that work together to create the perfect balance. Each one plays an essential role in building the creamy texture and tropical freshness you’re aiming for.
- Brie Cheese: Choose a whole round of brie with a creamy center for optimal melting and richness.
- Fresh Pineapple: Adds juicy sweetness and a tropical tang to complement the cheese.
- Ripe Mango: Brings smooth, fragrant sweetness and vibrant color to the dish.
- Brown Sugar: Balances acidity and enhances fruit’s caramelization during baking.
- Honey: Adds a natural touch of sweetness and gloss once baked.
- Cinnamon: Provides a subtle warm spice to amplify flavors without overpowering.
- Chopped Macadamia Nuts: For crunch and a nutty finish that ties the tropical theme together.
- Puff Pastry (optional): Wrap the brie for an elegant presentation and added flaky texture.
Variations for Hawaiian Style Baked Brie with Pineapple & Mango
Feel free to customize this recipe to fit your taste buds or dietary needs. Hawaiian Style Baked Brie with Pineapple & Mango is incredibly adaptable and easy to tweak without losing its tropical charm.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or finely chopped jalapeños for subtle heat.
- Gluten-Free Option: Skip the puff pastry and bake the brie as is, or serve with gluten-free crackers.
- Berry Fusion: Substitute or add fresh berries like blueberries or raspberries for a mixed fruit twist.
- Herb Infusion: Sprinkle fresh cilantro or basil on top for an aromatic layer of flavor.
- Drizzle Ideas: Use a tangy passion fruit syrup or a mango glaze instead of honey for distinct sweetness.
How to Make Hawaiian Style Baked Brie with Pineapple & Mango
Step 1: Prepare the Fruit Topping
Start by peeling and finely dicing the fresh pineapple and mango into small, even pieces. In a mixing bowl, combine the diced fruit with brown sugar, honey, and a sprinkle of cinnamon. Stir gently to coat the fruit evenly, and set it aside to let the flavors meld while you prepare the brie.
Step 2: Prep the Brie
If using puff pastry, roll it out on a floured surface and place the brie round in the center. Otherwise, place the whole brie on a lined baking sheet or oven-safe dish. For added texture and flavor, you can score the top rind slightly with a knife, which also helps the cheese melt more evenly.
Step 3: Assemble the Baked Brie
Top the brie with the prepared pineapple and mango mixture, spreading it carefully so the fruit covers the cheese without spilling too much over the edges. Sprinkle chopped macadamia nuts on top for a crunchy finish. If wrapped in puff pastry, fold the edges over the top, sealing the fruit inside the pastry pocket.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Place the assembled brie in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the fruit topping is bubbling and caramelized. If using puff pastry, bake until it turns golden brown and flaky.
Step 5: Serve Warm
Allow the baked brie to cool slightly, then transfer it to a serving plate. Drizzle a little extra honey over the top if desired before serving. Pair with crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh fruit for an unforgettable taste experience.
Pro Tips for Making Hawaiian Style Baked Brie with Pineapple & Mango
- Use Ripe Fruit: Fresh, ripe pineapple and mango ensure maximum sweetness and juicy texture.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep a close eye on the brie while baking to avoid over-melting or burning.
- Room Temperature Brie: Let the cheese sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before baking for even melting.
- Nut Crunch: Toast macadamia nuts lightly in a pan before sprinkling for enhanced flavor.
- Serving Temperature: Serve immediately or within 15 minutes for the best ooey-gooey experience.
How to Serve Hawaiian Style Baked Brie with Pineapple & Mango
Garnishes
Give the dish a fresh look and extra flavor by garnishing with chopped fresh mint leaves, edible flowers, or a light dusting of powdered cinnamon to enhance the tropical vibe.
Side Dishes
A crispy baguette, assorted crackers, or sliced apples work beautifully as companions, balancing creamy, sweet, and crunchy elements for a well-rounded bite.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the baked brie on a wooden cheese board surrounded by colorful fruit slices and nuts. Alternatively, place small portions into mini phyllo cups or endive leaves for elegant, bite-sized appetizers that wow guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Hawaiian Style Baked Brie with Pineapple & Mango in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Remember, the texture changes after refrigeration, so enjoy within this timeframe.
Freezing
Freezing is generally not recommended for baked brie with fresh fruit as the texture of both cheese and fruit may become compromised once thawed.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a low-temperature oven (around 300°F/150°C) for 5–7 minutes to warm through without drying out the cheese or caramelizing the fruit further.
FAQs
Can I use canned pineapple or mango instead of fresh?
Fresh fruit is highly recommended for its natural sweetness and texture; canned fruit tends to be too watery and can alter the dish’s consistency.
Is it necessary to use puff pastry in this recipe?
No, puff pastry is optional. Baking the brie topped with fruit directly is perfectly delicious and simpler to prepare.
What can I substitute for macadamia nuts?
Other nuts like pecans, almonds, or walnuts work well and add different types of crunch and flavor profiles.
How do I make this dish vegan or dairy-free?
Use a vegan cream cheese or plant-based cheese alternative and substitute honey with maple syrup to keep it vegan and dairy-free.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
You can chop the fruit and mix the topping a few hours before, but assemble and bake the brie just before serving to keep it fresh and melty.
Final Thoughts
Hawaiian Style Baked Brie with Pineapple & Mango is a fun, vibrant twist on classic baked brie that brings tropical sunshine to any occasion. It’s simple to make, bursting with flavor, and sure to impress everyone at your table. So grab your ingredients, gather your friends, and enjoy this delicious, creamy, fruity delight that’s as easy to prepare as it is to love.
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Hawaiian Style Baked Brie with Pineapple & Mango
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free (if puff pastry is omitted or replaced with gluten-free alternative)
Description
Hawaiian Style Baked Brie with Pineapple & Mango is a tropical-inspired appetizer that combines creamy melted brie cheese with sweet, juicy pineapple and mango, enhanced with brown sugar, honey, cinnamon, and crunchy macadamia nuts. This vibrant and indulgent dish is perfect for parties, family gatherings, or as a unique appetizer, offering a harmonious blend of sweet and savory flavors that delight the palate.
Ingredients
Cheese
- 1 whole round of Brie cheese (8–12 oz), preferably with a creamy center
Fruit Topping
- 1 cup fresh pineapple, peeled and finely diced
- 1 cup ripe mango, peeled and finely diced
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon honey (plus extra for drizzling)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Toppings & Optional
- 1/4 cup chopped macadamia nuts (lightly toasted recommended)
- 1 sheet puff pastry (optional, for wrapping the brie)
Instructions
- Prepare the Fruit Topping: Peel and finely dice the fresh pineapple and mango into small, even pieces. In a mixing bowl, combine the diced fruit with brown sugar, honey, and a sprinkle of cinnamon. Stir gently to coat the fruit evenly and set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
- Prep the Brie: If using puff pastry, roll it out on a floured surface and place the whole brie round in the center. Otherwise, place the brie directly on a lined baking sheet or oven-safe dish. For better melting, score the top rind slightly with a knife.
- Assemble the Baked Brie: Top the brie with the prepared pineapple and mango mixture, spreading carefully to cover the cheese without spilling over the edges. Sprinkle chopped macadamia nuts on top. If wrapped in puff pastry, fold the edges over the top, sealing the fruit inside the pastry pocket.
- Bake to Perfection: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the assembled brie for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the fruit topping is bubbling and caramelized. If using puff pastry, bake until the pastry is golden brown and flaky.
- Serve Warm: Allow the baked brie to cool slightly before transferring to a serving plate. Drizzle with extra honey if desired. Serve with crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh fruit for a delightful combination.
Notes
- Use ripe pineapple and mango for maximum sweetness and juiciness.
- Do not overbake; watch the brie closely to prevent burning or over-melting.
- Let brie sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before baking to ensure even melting.
- Lightly toast macadamia nuts before sprinkling to enhance their flavor.
- Serve immediately or within 15 minutes for the best texture and gooey experience.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Hawaiian / Tropical
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximate)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: baked brie, pineapple, mango, tropical appetizer, Hawaiian appetizer, party snack, creamy cheese, macadamia nuts, fruit topping, easy baked brie