I remember the first time I tried baked brie. It was at a holiday gathering, and I was instantly captivated by the warm, gooey cheese and the sweet, crunchy topping. It felt so fancy, but also incredibly comforting. From that moment on, I knew I had to learn how to make it myself.
This Cranberry Pecan Baked Brie brings back all those wonderful memories. The combination of flavors and textures is simply irresistible, and it’s surprisingly easy to make. It’s become a staple at our family gatherings, and I can’t wait to share it with you. I recently served it alongside these baked orange cranberry chicken bites at a family dinner, and it was a huge success.
Why you’ll love this Cranberry Pecan Baked Brie
- It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal prep time and simple ingredients.
- The combination of creamy brie, sweet cranberries, and crunchy pecans creates a delightful explosion of flavors and textures.
- This cranberry pecan baked brie is perfect for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to elegant holiday parties.
- It’s a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for the recipe.
- You can easily customize the topping to suit your preferences, making it a versatile appetizer. The cranberry pecan baked brie is truly a blank canvas.
- The warm, gooey cheese is simply irresistible, making it a comforting and satisfying treat.
Ingredients
- 1 (8-ounce) wheel of brie cheese
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
- Crackers or baguette slices, for serving
Directions
Step 1
Cranberry pecan baked brie makes every moment feel velvety. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2
Place the brie wheel on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 3
In a small bowl, combine the dried cranberries, chopped pecans, maple syrup, and melted butter. Mix well.
Step 4
Spread the cranberry pecan mixture evenly over the top of the brie.
Step 5
Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the brie is soft and gooey and the topping is lightly toasted. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
Step 6
Carefully transfer the baked brie to a serving platter. Serve immediately with crackers or baguette slices.
Variations, pairings, and serving ideas
Variations
For a richer flavor, try using brown butter instead of melted butter. The nutty aroma adds a wonderful depth to the cranberry pecan baked brie. To make brown butter, simply melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly until it turns a golden-brown color and has a nutty aroma.
You can also add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the topping for a warm, festive touch. These spices complement the cranberries and pecans beautifully. A little orange zest would also brighten the flavors in the cranberry pecan baked brie.
Experiment with different nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, instead of pecans. Each nut offers a unique flavor and texture that will change the character of the cranberry pecan baked brie. You can even use a combination of nuts for a more complex flavor profile.
Pairings
Serve the cranberry pecan baked brie with a variety of crackers, such as water crackers, multigrain crackers, or even sweet potato crackers. The different textures and flavors of the crackers will enhance the overall experience. A crusty baguette sliced thinly is also a fantastic choice.
Pair it with fresh fruit, such as apple slices, pear slices, or grapes. The sweetness and acidity of the fruit will balance the richness of the cheese and the sweetness of the topping. A sprinkle of pomegranate seeds adds a festive touch as well.
A drizzle of honey or a balsamic glaze can also elevate the flavors of the cranberry pecan baked brie. The honey adds a touch of sweetness, while the balsamic glaze provides a tangy counterpoint. Don’t overdo it, a little goes a long way.
Serving ideas
For an elegant presentation, place the baked brie on a wooden cheese board surrounded by crackers, fruit, and nuts. This creates a visually appealing and inviting spread. Adding a sprig of rosemary or thyme as a garnish is a nice touch.
You can also serve the cranberry pecan baked brie as part of a larger appetizer platter. Include other cheeses, charcuterie, and dips to create a diverse and satisfying selection. Consider adding some olives, artichoke hearts, and roasted red peppers.
For a cozy night in, serve the baked brie with a glass of sparkling cider or a light-bodied grape juice. The bubbles and acidity will cut through the richness of the cheese, creating a perfect pairing. A warm mug of spiced apple cider is another great option.
Storage and make-ahead tips
Storage
Store leftover cranberry pecan baked brie in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Place it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out. The quality is best on the first day, but it’s still delicious the next day or two.
Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving. If reheating in the oven, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through. If reheating in the microwave, heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
Freezing is not recommended, as the brie can change texture and become grainy. It is best to enjoy the cranberry pecan baked brie fresh or within a few days.
Make-ahead
You can assemble the cranberry pecan baked brie up to 24 hours in advance. Simply prepare the topping and spread it over the brie, then cover and refrigerate until ready to bake. This is a great way to save time when entertaining.
When ready to bake, remove the brie from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking. This will help it heat evenly. Ensure the baking sheet is ready and the oven is preheated.
If you’re short on time, you can even prepare the topping a few days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This makes the assembly process even faster.
Common mistakes when making Cranberry Pecan Baked Brie
- Overbaking the brie can cause it to melt completely and lose its shape. Keep a close eye on it while it’s in the oven and remove it when it’s soft and gooey, but still intact.
- Not using enough topping can result in a bland flavor. Be generous with the cranberry pecan mixture to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
- Using old or stale nuts can affect the overall taste and texture. Make sure to use fresh, high-quality pecans for the best results.
- Forgetting to line the baking sheet with parchment paper can make it difficult to remove the baked brie without it sticking. Parchment paper ensures easy cleanup and prevents the brie from burning on the bottom.
- Serving the baked brie too cold will prevent the cheese from being gooey and delicious. Serve it immediately after baking for the best experience.
Final notes
This cranberry pecan baked brie is a simple yet elegant appetizer that is sure to impress your guests. The combination of sweet, savory, and crunchy flavors is simply irresistible. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations and toppings to create your own signature version.
Remember to keep a close eye on the brie while it’s baking to prevent it from overcooking. And don’t forget to serve it immediately with your favorite crackers or baguette slices. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and share it with your loved ones.
I hope you find this recipe as delightful and easy to prepare as I do. Enjoy the process and the delicious results! It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a wonderful addition to any gathering.
Loved this Cranberry Pecan Baked Brie? Try these next
- Baked Orange Cranberry Chicken
- Southern Fried Apples Recipe
- Scotcharoo Popcorn Recipe
- Smores Pretzel Bites
- Lemon Glazed Shortbread Cookies
Cranberry Pecan Baked Brie
Warm, gooey brie topped with sweet cranberries and crunchy pecans, baked to perfection. This Cranberry Pecan Baked Brie is the perfect appetizer for any holiday gathering or cozy night in.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 (8-ounce) wheel of brie cheese
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
- Crackers or baguette slices, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place the brie wheel on the prepared baking sheet.
- In a small bowl, combine the dried cranberries, chopped pecans, maple syrup, and melted butter. Mix well.
- Spread the cranberry pecan mixture evenly over the top of the brie.
- Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the brie is soft and gooey and the topping is lightly toasted.
- Carefully transfer the baked brie to a serving platter. Serve immediately with crackers or baguette slices.
Notes
For a richer flavor, use brown butter instead of melted butter. You can also add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the topping for a warm, festive touch. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 45mg