If you’re dreaming of a crowd-pleasing appetizer that brings together creamy cheese, sweet-tart cranberries, and nutty crunch, this Baked Brie with Cranberries and Pecans is about to steal the show! It’s an irresistible combination, perfect for holidays or any cozy gathering. The melty Brie becomes decadently gooey under a jewel-toned blanket of cranberry sauce, crunchy pecans, and a kiss of maple. It’s so easy to make, yet it feels truly special every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Baked Brie with Cranberries and Pecans relies on simple, standout ingredients that shine when brought together. Each one adds a distinct note — from the rich, creamy cheese to the vibrant cranberry topping and the fragrant touch of fresh rosemary.
- Brie cheese wheel (8 ounces): The star of the show, Brie gets soft and molten as it bakes, making every bite creamy and luscious.
- Whole berry cranberry sauce (1/3 cup): Adds tangy sweetness and wonderful color, making the dish as pretty as it is tasty.
- Chopped pecans (1/4 cup): Offer buttery crunch that contrasts perfectly with the soft cheese and jammy cranberries.
- Brown sugar (1 tablespoon): Deepens the flavor with a mellow sweetness that pairs beautifully with both pecans and cranberries.
- Maple syrup or honey (1 tablespoon): A drizzle of this brings warmth and shine, tying every element together.
- Fresh rosemary, chopped (1 tablespoon, optional): Gives a lovely, woodsy note for extra fragrance and color (especially wonderful for the holidays).
- Crackers or sliced baguette (for serving): The perfect vessel to scoop up every bit of melty Brie and flavorful topping.
How to Make Baked Brie with Cranberries and Pecans
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Brie
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Set out a parchment-lined baking sheet or a small oven-safe dish — this keeps cleanup easy and prevents any melted cheese from sticking. Place the whole wheel of Brie in the center, leaving the rind on so the cheese keeps its shape as it becomes wonderfully gooey in the oven.
Step 2: Mix the Cranberry-Pecan Topping
In a small bowl, combine the whole berry cranberry sauce, chopped pecans, brown sugar, maple syrup or honey, and fresh rosemary if you’re using it. Give everything a good stir so the nuts and cranberries are evenly coated in the sweet, sticky mixture. This step only takes a minute but promises a world of flavor once baked.
Step 3: Pile the Topping on the Brie
Spoon the cranberry-pecan mixture right on top of the Brie, spreading it gently to cover the entire surface. As it bakes, the topping will become bubbling, glossy, and slightly caramelized — irresistibly inviting.
Step 4: Bake Until Warm and Oozy
Slide your Brie into the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. The goal is to warm it through so it’s soft and melted in the center. You’ll know it’s ready when it jiggles slightly if you nudge it. Try not to overbake, or the cheese might break open too soon.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy Your Baked Brie with Cranberries and Pecans
Carefully transfer the hot Brie to a serving platter (it’s quite delicate at this stage). Present it alongside a pile of crackers or slices of fresh baguette, and invite everyone to dig in while it’s warm and perfectly gooey.
How to Serve Baked Brie with Cranberries and Pecans
Garnishes
A few sprigs of fresh rosemary or thyme make a lovely finishing touch, lending another pop of green and a fragrant aroma. For a sparkle effect, you can even scatter a handful of ruby-red pomegranate seeds on top — they add freshness and extra color.
Side Dishes
Pair this cheese centerpiece with an array of accompaniments: crisp apple or pear slices, fig jam, or even pickled vegetables are fantastic alongside the Baked Brie with Cranberries and Pecans. These extras round out the cheese board and keep everyone coming back for more.
Creative Ways to Present
Take your platter up a notch by baking the Brie in a mini skillet or wrapping it in puff pastry before baking for extra wow-factor. Alternatively, surround your Brie with a ring of crackers and fruit for an edible wreath effect — beautiful and practical!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any Baked Brie with Cranberries and Pecans left (lucky you!), wrap the cooled cheese and topping tightly in foil or plastic wrap. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Freezing
While cheese is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftover Baked Brie in an emergency. Wrap it well and freeze for up to one month. Let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating — just know the texture may be a little softer after freezing.
Reheating
To revive leftover Baked Brie with Cranberries and Pecans, place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet and warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melty again. Enjoy it just as you did the first time, warm and dreamy!
FAQs
Can I use a different type Appetizer
While Brie is classic for its creamy, melty texture and mild flavor, you can substitute Camembert or even a soft goat cheese log. Just adjust baking time as needed and expect some flavor differences.
Is it necessary to remove the rind from the Brie?
Not at all! The rind helps the Brie hold its shape as it bakes and is completely edible. Most people love its subtle flavor and contrast with the gooey interior.
Can I make Baked Brie with Cranberries and Pecans ahead of time?
You can assemble the Brie up to a few hours in advance by combining the topping and adding it to the cheese, then storing it covered in the fridge. Simply bake right before serving to ensure it’s perfectly melty.
What are the best crackers or breads to serve with this dish?
Sturdy options like toasted baguette slices, whole grain crackers, or seeded crisps hold up well to the warm cheese and topping. Even apple or pear slices are delicious for a gluten-free option!
How do I toast pecans for extra flavor?
Just add the chopped pecans to a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir for 3 to 5 minutes until they’re golden and fragrant — this simple step intensifies their flavor and crunch.
Final Thoughts
Once you try Baked Brie with Cranberries and Pecans, you might find yourself creating any excuse to make it again. It’s elegant yet straightforward, and a clear favorite for sharing. Give it a try the next time you want to wow family and friends — and don’t be surprised if this irresistible appetizer steals the spotlight!
Print
Baked Brie with Cranberries and Pecans Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the ultimate holiday appetizer with this easy and elegant Baked Brie with Cranberries and Pecans. Creamy Brie cheese topped with a sweet and tangy cranberry pecan mixture, baked until warm and gooey. Perfect for entertaining or cozy nights in!
Ingredients
Baked Brie:
- 1 (8-ounce) wheel of Brie cheese
Cranberry Pecan Topping:
- 1/3 cup whole berry cranberry sauce
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary (optional)
For Serving:
- Crackers or sliced baguette
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the Brie: Place the Brie on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in an oven-safe dish.
- Make the topping: Mix cranberry sauce, pecans, brown sugar, maple syrup, and rosemary. Spread over Brie.
- Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes until warm and soft.
- Serve: Transfer to a platter and serve with crackers or baguette.
Notes
- Toast pecans before adding for extra flavor.
- For an elegant touch, wrap Brie in puff pastry before baking.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: about 1/6 wheel
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
