MELTED BRIE WITH WINTER FRUIT

3/4 cup chopped pitted dates
1 small apple, peeled, cored, chopped
1 small firm pear, peeled, cored, chopped
1/2 cup currants or raisins
1/2 cup chopped pecans
1/3 cup rose wine or apple juice
1 (16 ounce) wheel of Brie cheese, well chilled
Thin baguette slices

TO MAKE THE FRUIT SPREAD:*
Combine the dates, apple, pear, currants, pecans and wine in a small bowl and mix well. Let stand for 2 hours.

WHEN READY TO BAKE:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

Place the Brie on a cutting surface. Slice into halves horizontally. Place the bottom half cut side up in a shallow round la-inch baking dish. Spread with 2 1/2 cups of the fruit mixture. Cover with the top half of the Brie, cut side down. Spoon the remaining fruit onto the center of the Brie.

Bake at 350 degrees F for 25 to 30 minutes or until the cheese melts at the edges and the center is warm.

TO SERVE:
Place on a hot plate to keep warm. Spread on baguette slices.

*TO MAKE AHEAD:
The fruit spread can be made up to 2 days ahead before baking. Cover and chill.

Servings: 16
Source: Las Vegas Glitter to Gourmet by The Junior League of Las Vegas