Quick Answers
Brie is a soft cow’s milk cheese that is typically baked before eating to achieve the characteristic gooey, melted center. However, it is possible to eat brie without baking it first. The texture will be firmer and the flavor milder when unbaked. Brie should always be served at room temperature, whether baked or unbaked.
What is Brie Cheese?
Brie is a soft-ripened cheese made from cow’s milk. It is named after the French region of Brie, where it originated. Traditional Brie is made from raw milk and has a white edible rind formed by a microscopic cheese mite called Penicillium candidum. The interior paste is creamy and soft with a subtle, earthy flavor when ripe.
There are several varieties of Brie:
- Brie de Meaux – The original Brie made in the Brie region of France since the 8th century.
- Brie de Melun – A smaller version of Brie de Meaux.
- French Brie – Brie made in France outside the Brie region.
- Double and triple-cream Brie – Higher fat content, more buttery and rich.
- California or American Brie – Brie made in the US.
Why Do People Bake Brie?
Baking brie transforms the texture from firm and chalky to a warm, molten, creamy consistency. The high heat denatures the proteins in the cheese, allowing the fat to ooze out and create a smooth, spreadable texture.
Baking also intensifies and concentrates the flavor of the cheese. The flavor profile changes from mild and nutty to rich, buttery, and savory.
A baked brie makes an elegant appetizer for serving at parties. The warm, gooey cheese can be spread onto bread or crackers. Baking brie in a puff pastry shell or topping it with nuts or fruit also dresses up the cheese into an impressive dish.
Can You Eat Brie Without Baking It?
Yes, brie can absolutely be eaten unbaked straight from the fridge. However, the texture and flavor profile will be different than baked brie.
Unbaked brie has a firm, chalky texture at refrigerator temperatures. As it comes to room temperature, it softens but remains thicker than melted baked brie.
The flavor of unbaked brie is milder and more subtle. The creamy, grassy notes of the cheese are not as pronounced or intense as baked brie.
Tips for Serving Unbaked Brie
If you wish to serve brie without baking, here are some tips:
- Allow it to come to room temperature so it softens.
- Cut off the top rind and slice or cut into cubes.
- Serve with bread, crackers, grapes, apple slices, or jam.
- Pair with sparkling wines, light beers, or crisp hard ciders.
- Enjoy the lighter, more subtle flavor profile.
Nutrition Comparison
Here is a nutrition comparison between baked and unbaked brie:
| Nutrition Facts | Baked Brie (1 oz) | Unbaked Brie (1 oz) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 98 | 98 |
| Fat | 8g | 8g |
| Protein | 6g | 6g |
| Carbs | 0.5g | 0.5g |
Nutritionally, baked and unbaked brie are very similar. The main differences come down to texture and flavor.
Conclusion
While baking intensifies the experience of eating brie, it is absolutely fine to enjoy brie unbaked directly from the fridge. Letting it come to room temperature will soften the texture. Unbaked brie offers a nice contrast of creamy, chalky, and earthy flavors. Serve alongside bread, fruit, cured meats, and wine for a simple French-inspired appetizer.