Name: Brie and Pear Puff Tart Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-491239H12M28S
Total time: PT-491239H12M28S
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed if frozen; 1 wheel brie cheese (approximately 200 g), thinly sliced; 2 ripe pears, thinly sliced; 60 ml walnuts, roughly chopped; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 egg yolk, for brushing pastry; Honey, for drizzling; Chili flakes, optional, to taste; Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

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Introduction

This Brie and Pear Puff Tart is an elegant yet simple dish perfect for any occasion. The combination of creamy brie, sweet pears, and crunchy walnuts on a flaky puff pastry makes it an irresistible treat. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s ideal for a quick appetizer or light meal.

A close-up of a square tart with three distinct layers: a thick, flaky golden brown puff pastry base, a creamy white cheese layer in the middle, and thinly sliced, light yellow pears arranged on top. The pears are sprinkled with cracked black pepper and herbs, and scattered walnut halves add texture and color. A small bunch of fresh green herbs rests in the center, enhancing the look. The tart is placed on a wooden board with a soft, natural light highlighting the shiny, slightly caramelized edges. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 sheet puff pastry, thawed if frozen
1 wheel brie cheese (approximately 200 g), thinly sliced
2 ripe pears, thinly sliced
60 ml walnuts, roughly chopped
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1 egg yolk, for brushing pastry
Honey, for drizzling
Chili flakes, optional, to taste
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 200°C (392°F).
Step 2: Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle about 25 × 30 cm, then transfer it to a parchment-lined baking tray.
Step 3: Fold the edges of the pastry inward to create a rustic border, pressing gently to seal the folds.
Step 4: Arrange the sliced brie evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving the border exposed, then layer the pear slices on top.
Step 5: Beat the egg yolk and brush it onto the folded pastry edges. Sprinkle the chopped walnuts and dried thyme evenly over the filling.
Step 6: Bake the tart for 15–20 minutes until the pastry is golden and the brie has melted.
Step 7: Remove from the oven, drizzle with honey, sprinkle with chili flakes if desired, and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve warm.

Tips & Variations

For extra crunch and flavor, toast the walnuts lightly before adding them to the tart.
If you prefer a milder sweetness, substitute pears with apples or figs.
Use fresh thyme instead of dried for a brighter herbal note.
Chili flakes add a nice kick, but omit them if you prefer a purely sweet and savory flavor.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a low oven to keep the puff pastry crisp or briefly in a toaster oven. This tart is best enjoyed fresh for optimal texture.

How to Serve

The image shows a rectangular tart with a golden, crispy puff pastry base made of several flaky layers. On top is a layer of thinly sliced, pale yellow pears arranged in overlapping rows. Scattered over the pears are whole walnut pieces, roasted to a light brown color, and fresh green herb leaves, adding a pop of color. The tart is sprinkled with finely crushed black pepper and herbs, giving a textured look with dark specks against the pear slices. It is placed on a wooden board with a warm tone, contrasting the tart’s colors. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen puff pastry straight from the freezer?

It’s best to thaw puff pastry according to package instructions before rolling it out to ensure even baking and avoid cracking.

Is it possible to make this tart gluten-free?

Yes, you can use gluten-free puff pastry available at specialty stores or make your own gluten-free puff pastry for this recipe.