Baked Brie with Caramelized Pear

Ingredients

• 1 (8 oz/250 g) round Brie cheese
• 1 tbsp (15 mL) sliced hazelnuts or slivered almonds, toasted
• Caramelized pear:
• 2 tsp (10 mL) butter
• 1 shallot, thinly sliced
• 1 pear, thinly sliced
• Pinch each salt and pepper
• 1/4 cup (60 mL) white wine
• 1 tbsp (15 mL) brandy
• 2 tsp (10 mL) chopped fresh thyme, (or 1/2 tsp/2 mL dried)
• 2 tsp (5 mL) packed brown sugar

Preparation

Caramelized pear:

In nonstick skillet, melt butter over medium heat; fry shallot, pear, salt and pepper until shallot is softened, about 5 minutes.

Add pear juice, brandy, thyme and sugar; bring to boil. Boil, stirring occasionally, until no liquid remains and pear is softened, about 5 minutes.

(Make-ahead: Let cool. Refrigerate in airtight container for up to 24 hours.)

Place brie on foil or parchment-lined pie plate or in small cake pan; top with pear mixture.

Bake in 350°F (180°C) oven until cheese is softened, about 10 minutes.

Let stand for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with nuts.