Brie en Croute

My friend Amanda makes this for get togethers and special occasions.  Everyone always raves about it.  Maybe not the healthiest option but its ok to splurge every now and again.  A definete crowd pleaser, great for an appetizer while entertaining....not so good if you need to BRING something...better to make at your own house....fresh out of the oven.  Yum!

Brie En Croute

Recipe: by Amanda Kubin

1 sheet frozen puff pastry, pre-packaged
1/2 package or more of cream cheese

2 TBP or more dried basil

1 (8-ounce) wheel Brie
1 egg, beaten
Crackers, for serving

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.

Defrost puff pastry for approximately 15 to 20 minutes and unfold.

Cut the Brie in half horizontally.  Spread the cream cheese over one half and then sprinkle the basil.  More or less can be used to your taste.  Place the top back on the cheese. Lay the puff pastry out on a flat surface. Place the brie in the center of the pastry. Gather up the edges of the brie, pressing around the brie and gather at the top. You can use cooking twine to tie off the top but I just fold and pinch it together so it doesn't come open. Brush the beaten egg over top and side of Brie. Place Brie on a cookie sheet and bake for 20 minutes until pastry is golden brown.   Let cool slightly.

Serve with crackers.