The Best Crackers To Serve Alongside Brie Cheese

Brie is a soft, creamy cheese with a mild yet deeply satisfying taste. It is a versatile cheese that can be served as an appetiser, dessert, or part of the main course. While brie is usually served with crusty bread or crackers, it can be paired with fruits, nuts, or honey. When selecting a cracker to go with brie, it is important to choose a neutral cracker that will not overwhelm the cheese. Plain crackers are a good choice, as they will not detract from the cheese's flavour. Melba crackers, for example, have a crunchy texture and neutral flavour, making them suitable for spreading baked brie. Sesame crackers are another option, as the nuttiness will complement the cheese. Homemade herb crackers with chives, basil, rosemary, and oregano can also complement the creamy texture and flavour of brie.

Plain crackers

When it comes to choosing crackers to pair with brie, plain crackers are a convenient and complementary choice. Their neutral taste and slight crunch provide the perfect balance to the rich, creamy texture of brie, allowing its delicate flavour to shine through. Here are some tips and suggestions for pairing plain crackers with brie cheese:

Classic Choices

A simple water cracker or a baguette slice are classic options for serving with brie. Water crackers, in particular, are known for their neutral flavour and crisp texture, making them a popular choice to complement the creamy and slightly nutty taste of brie without overpowering it.

Artisanal vs Commercial Crackers

The choice between artisanal and commercial crackers can impact your tasting experience. Artisanal crackers are often handcrafted with high-quality ingredients, offering unique flavours and textures that perfectly complement brie. They may feature added elements such as herbs, seeds, or spices, enhancing the pairing experience. Commercial crackers, on the other hand, are readily available in supermarkets and offer convenience and accessibility. They come in various shapes, flavours, and sizes, providing a reliable base for your brie. Ultimately, the choice depends on your personal preference and the specific occasion.

Gluten-Free Options

For those with dietary restrictions or preferences, gluten-free plain crackers are also available. These are typically made from alternative grains such as rice, quinoa, or almond flour. Gluten-free options offer a light and crisp texture that complements the creaminess of brie without overpowering its delicate flavour.

Presentation Tips

When serving brie with plain crackers, consider the following tips:

• Arrange the crackers neatly on a serving platter or board, alongside the brie.
• Incorporate decorative elements such as fresh herbs, fruits, or honey to enhance the visual appeal of the platter.
• Pay attention to the aesthetics of the presentation to elevate the overall dining experience.
• Ensure you have enough crackers to match the amount of brie, so your guests can fully enjoy the pairing.

Enhancing the Flavour

While plain crackers are a classic choice, you can also enhance their flavour to take your brie pairing to the next level:

• Add flavour enhancers such as herbs (rosemary, thyme, basil), seeds (sesame, poppy, flaxseeds), or spices (black pepper, cayenne, smoked paprika).
• Experiment with gluten-free plain crackers that incorporate seeds, herbs, or spices designed to enhance the tasting experience.
• Pair your brie with something acidic, such as apples, grapes, or pears, to bring out its velvety texture.
• Try sweet and zippy sides like fig jam or honey to complement the creamy texture of brie.

Melba crackers

When serving brie, it is important to consider the role of the cracker. If the cheese is the star of the show, a neutral cracker like Melba will not detract from its flavour. Melba crackers pair well with brie served warm or at room temperature, allowing the cheese to soften and become more flavourful.

For a classic pairing, serve brie on Melba crackers with a sweet accompaniment, such as fruit chutney, sweet jam, or baked maple syrup and nuts. The neutral flavour of the crackers will balance the sweetness of these toppings, creating a harmonious bite.

If you're feeling adventurous, try a savoury route by topping the crackers with roasted garlic dip or charcuterie meats like prosciutto or salami. The crunch of the Melba crackers will provide a satisfying contrast to the soft, creamy cheese and savoury toppings.

When creating a cheese platter, it's a good idea to offer a variety of crackers, including Melba, to cater to different tastes and textures. You can also recommend specific crackers based on the toppings or pairings to ensure the flavours complement each other. With their versatility and broad appeal, Melba crackers are a safe bet for any brie-centred occasion.

Multigrain crackers

When choosing crackers for brie, it is important to consider the role of the cheese in your dish. If brie is the star of the show, opt for a neutral, plain, or mild cracker that won't overwhelm its delicate flavour. Multigrain crackers fit the bill, providing a crunchy base that complements the soft, creamy texture of the cheese. Their subtle flavour also ensures that the cheese remains the focal point.

If you're serving brie with toppings, such as nuts, fruits, or chutneys, choose larger-sized crackers to avoid a mess. Multigrain crackers are an excellent choice in this case, as their sturdiness can withstand the weight of toppings without breaking. Their nutty flavour also pairs well with sweet toppings like fruit spreads or compotes.

When selecting multigrain crackers, avoid overly salted or oily varieties, as these can detract from the flavour and texture of the brie. Instead, opt for a lightly seasoned or unsalted version to let the cheese shine.

For a simple yet elegant appetizer, top multigrain crackers with sliced brie and a drizzle of honey or a spoonful of your favourite jam. This combination of flavours and textures is sure to impress your guests and elevate your brie experience.

Homemade herb crackers

Crackers and brie cheese are a classic combination. While some people prefer plain crackers, others like to add a little extra flavour with their choice of cracker. Water crackers are a popular choice, as they are the most neutral, but still have a good texture. However, you can also try herb crackers, which can be easily made at home.

These crackers are packed with flavour and are perfect for parties. They can be paired with a variety of cheeses, dips, and spreads. The best part is that they are easy to make and only require a few simple ingredients.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup whole-wheat flour (optional)
• 3 tablespoons salted butter, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon salt, plus additional for topping
• 3 tablespoons grated onion
• 3 tablespoons chopped mixed herbs, such as thyme and chives
• 1 egg white, whisked
• 1 tablespoon seeds, such as sesame or poppy

Method

• Preheat your oven to 450°F.
• In a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, combine the all-purpose flour, whole-wheat flour (if using), butter, and salt. Mix on medium-low speed until the mixture resembles a coarse meal.
• Add the onion, herbs, and milk; mix until just combined. Be careful not to overwork the dough.
• Roll out the dough into a 1/8-inch-thick rectangle on a lightly floured surface or parchment paper.
• Brush the top of the dough with egg white and sprinkle with seeds and salt.
• Transfer the dough to a baking sheet and cut it into your desired cracker shape and size.
• Bake until golden, which should take around 10 to 12 minutes.

And there you have it! Your very own homemade herb crackers that are perfect for any occasion. Enjoy them with your favourite cheese, dip, or spread.

Sesame crackers

When creating your own sesame crackers, consider using wonton wrappers brushed with egg yolks and sprinkled with black sesame seeds. This combination provides a delightful contrast to the smoothness of the brie. If you're looking for a more convenient option, you can find sesame crackers at your local grocery store or cheese shop.

In terms of texture, sesame crackers offer a crunchy bite that pairs well with the soft and creamy nature of brie. This contrast in textures elevates the overall tasting experience. The crunch of the cracker enhances the smooth, buttery flavour of the brie, making each bite a delightful sensory journey.

When serving brie with sesame crackers, consider presenting them on a neat platter or board. Offering a variety of crackers, including sesame crackers, allows your guests to explore different flavour profiles and find their preferred combination. Remember to use a separate knife for the brie and crackers to maintain the integrity of their flavours.

Additionally, you can enhance the visual appeal of the platter by incorporating decorative elements such as fresh herbs, fruits, or honey. The presentation of the brie and crackers plays a crucial role in elevating the dining experience, making it not just about taste but also a feast for the eyes.

In conclusion, sesame crackers are an excellent choice to accompany brie cheese. Their nutty flavour and crunchy texture complement the creamy, rich, and smooth characteristics of brie. Whether you make your own or purchase them, sesame crackers will surely enhance your brie-tasting experience and provide a delightful sensory adventure for your palate.

Frequently asked questions