Brie Cranberry Stuffed Mushrooms Holiday Appetizer

Let’s talk about Brie and Cranberry-Stuffed Mushrooms—a delightful mix of savory, creamy, and sweet that’s perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy night in. This recipe was born from my love of festive flavors and a need for quick, crowd-pleasing appetizers. Picture it: melty Brie, tangy cranberry, and earthy mushrooms baked to golden perfection. Who could resist?

If you need a party appetizer that’s equal parts classy and easy, this one’s about to steal the show!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It’s a breeze to whip up—only 30 minutes from prep to table.
• Made with five simple ingredients, yet fancy enough to impress a crowd.
• Customizable: Perfect for adding personal touches or playing with flavors.
• An irresistible balance of creamy, tangy, and earthy flavors.

Ingredients Breakdown

Essentials:

• White Button or Baby Bella Mushrooms: A sturdy base for the filling. Try to pick mushrooms about the size of a golf ball—ideal for stuffing!
• Brie Cheese: The star of the show. Its luscious, creamy texture is perfect for melting into the mushrooms.
• Cranberry Sauce: Adds a festive, tangy punch. Homemade or store-bought both work great.
• Breadcrumbs: For a crunchy topping. Panko breadcrumbs are my favorite for extra crispiness.
• Fresh Thyme: This herb brings a subtle woodsy aroma and elevates the dish with minimal effort.

Pro Tips:

• If you’re short on time, pre-cut Brie (rind and all!) into small cubes. The rind actually melts beautifully into the filling.
• No cranberry sauce on hand? Swap in red pepper jelly, fig jam, or even a dollop of apricot preserves for a fun twist.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the mushrooms: Rinse the mushrooms under cold water and pat them dry with a clean towel. Remove the stems (save them for stock or another recipe) and gently scoop out the gills with a teaspoon to create space for stuffing.
2. Preheat the oven: Heat to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
3. Make the filling: Cube small pieces of Brie and place them inside each mushroom cap. Top with a small dollop of cranberry sauce.
4. Finish with toppings: Mix breadcrumbs with a tiny drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of thyme. Sprinkle this mixture on top of each stuffed mushroom for extra crunch and flavor.
5. Bake: Arrange the mushrooms on the prepared sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is gooey. For extra golden tops, switch to broil for the last 1-2 minutes.

Chef’s Tips and Tricks

• Don’t overstuff the mushrooms—less is more here. The filling will melt and expand slightly as it bakes.
• To avoid sogginess, bake the mushrooms on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. It allows any excess liquid to drip down as they cook.

Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions

• Give it a spin: Swap Brie for goat cheese, or add a sprinkle of chopped pecans for extra texture and nuttiness.
• Hosting Tip: Serve these alongside a sparkling rosé or chilled Prosecco to highlight their festive, bright flavors.
• Make it your own: Add a pinch of cayenne to the breadcrumb topping for a touch of spicy heat.

FAQs

• Can I make these ahead of time? Yes! Assemble the mushrooms up to 8 hours in advance, cover them with plastic wrap, and store them in the fridge. Bake just before serving.
• How do I store leftovers? Place cooked mushrooms in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven until warm.
• Can I freeze these mushrooms? Unfortunately, stuffed mushrooms don’t freeze well as the filling can become watery. It’s best to enjoy them fresh!

Recipe Card

These Brie and Cranberry-Stuffed Mushrooms are bite-sized bundles of joy, perfect for any occasion. I can’t wait to see how yours turn out! Don’t forget to share your creations by tagging #TheKitchensAid on social media. Let’s bring a little extra festive flair to the table together!