BAKED BRIE TOPPED WITH STRAWBERRIES

1 brie round
3 tablespoons strawberry preserves
2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar
sliced fresh strawberries
sliced toasted almonds
heart-shaped water crackers or toasted bread (to serve)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

Cut a wedge out of the top of the brie to make a heart shape.

Place the brie in a shallow baking dish and bake at 350 degrees F for 10 minutes or until soft and warm but not runny.

Meanwhile, heat 3 tablespoons strawberry preserves and 2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar until thick and bubbly.

Place brie on serving dish, arrange sliced fresh strawberries on top, drizzle with the heated preserves and sprinkle with sliced toasted almonds.

Serve with heart-shaped water crackers or toasted bread.

Adapted from source: the Austin American-Statesman, February 13, 2002