-ounce block brie cheese

Brie is a soft-ripened cheese of French origin, traditionally produced in the Île-de-France region surrounding Paris. It is a cow's milk cheese characterized by a bloomy white rind (formed by Penicillium candidum mold) and a pale yellow, creamy interior paste that becomes increasingly soft and spreadable as it ripens. The cheese has a mild, buttery, and slightly earthy flavor with subtle mushroom notes that intensify with age. True Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée (AOC) Brie de Meaux and Brie de Melun represent the most prestigious versions, though industrially produced brie is now widespread globally.

Brie is primarily consumed as a cheese course or appetizer, often served at room temperature with crackers, bread, fresh fruit (particularly pears and grapes), and nuts. The softened cheese may be baked whole with a fruit compote or honey glaze (baked brie), or incorporated into tarts, pastries, and savory applications. It pairs well with light-bodied white wines, champagne, and cider. In cooking, brie is used in cheese boards, gratins, quesadillas, and as a finishing element in warm salads. The cheese should be removed from refrigeration 30 minutes before serving to allow the interior to fully soften and flavors to develop.