Baked Brie with Cranberry and Pecans

When it comes to holiday appetizers that wow the crowd, Baked Brie with Cranberry and Pecans is a classic. There’s something magical about warm, gooey brie paired with the sweet-tart cranberries and crunchy pecans. Make this simple dish, and watch your guests gather around in no time. Trust me, it’s the kind of appetizer that says “fancy,” but leaves you plenty of time to mix and mingle too.

If you’re looking for an easy, elegant crowd-pleaser, this baked brie is calling your name!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It’s incredibly easy to make—only five minutes of prep!
The flavors are perfect for the holiday season, but it works year-round as a dreamy appetizer.
You can get creative with toppings—you’re not limited to cranberries and pecans.
The presentation is stunning with minimal effort.

Ingredients Breakdown

1 wheel of brie cheese (8-12 oz) – Mildly tangy, creamy, and perfect for melting.
1/2 cup of cranberry sauce – Use homemade or store-bought for a sweet and tart balance.
1/4 cup of pecans, chopped – Adds a lovely crunch! You can substitute walnuts if needed.
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup – A drizzle brings out the sweetness in all the right ways.
1 sprig fresh rosemary (optional for garnish) – Adds a touch of green and a fresh aroma.

Pro Tip:

If you don’t have cranberry sauce, you can use a good-quality jam like fig, apricot, or blueberry. It’ll still hit all the right flavor notes!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s make this Baked Brie step by step!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 2: Prep Your Brie

Place the brie on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in an oven-safe dish. You don’t need to remove the rind—it helps the cheese hold its shape while it bakes.

Step 3: Layer Your Toppings

Spread the cranberry sauce over the top of the brie, then sprinkle the chopped pecans on top.

Step 4: Bake

Bake for about 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is softened and gooey but not melted entirely. Keep an eye on it—once it’s warm and starting to ooze, it’s ready!

Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches

Right before serving, drizzle honey or maple syrup over the top and garnish with fresh rosemary, if using.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Carefully transfer the brie to a serving platter and serve with crackers, crostini, or sliced baguette. Let’s dig in!

Baked Brie with Cranberry and Pecans: A stunning centerpiece for your appetizer table!

Chef’s Tips and Tricks

Pre-bake precautions: Place your pecans on a baking sheet and toast them for 5 minutes before adding them to the brie. You’ll bring out their nutty flavor even more this way!
Make it ahead: You can assemble the brie with toppings and refrigerate for a few hours until you’re ready to bake. Just pop it in the oven before your guests arrive.
Watch that brie! Brie doesn’t need long in the oven, so keep an eye on it—overbaking can cause the brie to spill out too early.

Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions

This baked brie recipe is versatile, and with a few tweaks, you can put your own creative spin on it.

Flavor swaps: Try swapping the cranberry sauce for fig jam or apricot preserves for a different fruity sweetness.
Nuts: If you’re not a fan of pecans, try almonds or walnuts. Both add a delightful crunch.
Add dried fruits: Want an extra burst of sweetness? Add some dried cranberries, apricots, or figs on top!

As for serving, this brie pairs beautifully with toasted baguette slices, crackers, or even sliced apples and pears for a fresher bite. And don’t forget to pour a lovely glass of wine—this dish pairs well with a crisp white or a light red!

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the entire dish ahead of time and bake just before serving. Just keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready!

What should I do if I have leftovers?

Leftover baked brie can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2–3 days. Gently reheat it in the oven at a low temperature, or even in the microwave for a quick snack!

Can brie be frozen?

While you can freeze brie, I don’t recommend it for this recipe since the cheese can lose its gooey texture when thawed and baked. Fresh is best for that melty goodness!

Printable Recipe

Here’s a quick, printable version for you to pop on your fridge or share with a friend!