Skip to main content

Baked Brie with Caramelized Onions

This elegant baked Brie with caramelised onions is the ultimate vegetarian centrepiece for any gathering. The richness of the molten French cheese pairs beautifully with the deep, savoury sweetness of slow-cooked onions, infused with fresh thyme and a splash of crisp white wine. As it bakes, the flavours meld together to create a sophisticated dip that feels truly indulgent, especially when served warm from the oven with rounds of crusty baguette.

Perfect as a festive starter or a social snacking board, this recipe is as practical as it is impressive. You can prepare the onion topping up to two days in advance, making it an excellent choice for stress-free entertaining. High in protein and naturally vegetarian, it offers a comforting yet refined alternative to traditional cheeseboards, ensuring your guests will keep coming back for more.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Baked Brie with Caramelized Onions

  • 2 tablespoons (1/4 stick) butter

  • 1800g sliced onions (about 4 large)

  • 1 tablespoon minced fresh thyme

  • 4 garlic cloves, chopped

  • 120ml dry white wine

  • 1 teaspoon sugar

  • 1 8-inch-diameter 32- to 1025g French Brie, packed in wooden box (reserve box)

  • 2 French bread baguettes, sliced

How to make Baked Brie with Caramelized Onions

Melt butter in heavy very large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onions; sauté until just tender, about 6 minutes. Add minced thyme, reduce heat to medium and cook until onions are golden, stirring often, about 25 minutes. Add garlic and sauté 2 minutes. Add 60ml wine; stir until almost all liquid evaporates, about 2 minutes. Sprinkle sugar over onions and sauté until soft and brown, about 10 minutes. Add remaining 60ml wine; stir just until liquid evaporates, about 2 minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Cool. (Can be prepare 2 days ahead. Cover and refrigerate.)

Preheat oven to 177°C. Unwrap Brie, reserving bottom of wooden box. Cut away only top rind of cheese, leaving rind on sides and bottom intact. Return Brie to box, rind side down. Place box on baking sheet. Top Brie evenly with onion mixture. Bake until cheese just melts, about 30 minutes. Transfer Brie in box to platter. Surround with baguette slices.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 17 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
flu eligibility checker

Ask, share, connect.

Browse discussions, ask questions, and share experiences across hundreds of health topics.

symptom checker

Feeling unwell?

Assess your symptoms online for free

Sign up to the Patient newsletter

Your weekly dose of clear, trustworthy health advice - written to help you feel informed, confident and in control.

Please enter a valid email address

By subscribing you accept our Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time. We never sell your data.