Cranberry Pecan Baked Brie

This cranberry pecan baked brie transforms a simple wheel of cheese into a show-stopping appetizer with minimal effort. The combination of warm, gooey cheese with sweet and tart toppings creates an irresistible flavor profile that always disappears quickly at gatherings. I first served this at a holiday party five years ago, and it's become my signature appetizer that friends specifically request whenever we host.

This recipe saved me during an impromptu dinner party when I needed something elegant but quick. The way the maple honey mixture bubbles and caramelizes over the warm brie creates a moment of culinary magic that never fails to impress guests.

Ingredients

• 8 ounce wheel brie cheese: With rind trimmed. The creamy interior melts beautifully while maintaining its shape. Look for a wheel that gives slightly when pressed.
• Brown sugar: Provides caramelization and deep sweetness. Dark brown sugar works best for a more robust molasses flavor.
• Honey: Adds floral sweetness and helps create the perfect sticky texture. Choose a local variety for unique flavor notes.
• Maple syrup: Brings complexity and richness. Always use pure maple syrup rather than pancake syrup for authentic flavor.
• Unsalted butter: Creates silky texture in the topping. European style butter contains more butterfat for superior results.
• Ground cinnamon and nutmeg: Provide warm aromatic notes that enhance the fall flavors. Freshly grated nutmeg makes a noticeable difference.
• Orange zest: Adds bright citrus notes that balance the richness. Use organic oranges when possible for zesting.
• Pecan halves: Contribute essential crunch and nutty flavor. Toast them lightly beforehand for enhanced taste.
• Dried cranberries: Provide tartness and beautiful color contrast. Look for ones without added sugar for better flavor control.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat Oven:

Heat your oven to 350°F. This moderate temperature gently warms the cheese without causing it to collapse completely. Use an oven thermometer to verify accuracy as many ovens run hot or cold.

Prepare the Brie:

Place your brie wheel on a rimmed baking sheet or small cast iron skillet to catch any melted cheese. Trimming the rind from the top allows for better melting while the sides maintain structure. Sprinkle two tablespoons of brown sugar evenly across the top which will begin to caramelize as it bakes.

Bake the Cheese:

Slide the brie into your preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. You want the cheese softened throughout but not completely melted. The cheese should yield easily when touched but still maintain its wheel shape. Allow to rest for 5 minutes after baking which helps it set slightly for easier serving.

Create the Maple Honey Topping:

While the brie bakes, combine quarter cup brown sugar, honey, maple syrup, butter, cinnamon, nutmeg and orange zest in a small saucepan over medium heat. This mixture needs your attention so do not walk away. Stir occasionally to prevent burning until the mixture comes to a boil. Then reduce heat immediately to maintain a gentle simmer. The mixture will become foamy after about 1 to 2 minutes indicating it has reached the perfect consistency.

Add Nuts and Fruit:

Once your syrup reaches the foamy stage, remove from heat and stir in your chopped pecans and dried cranberries. This allows them to get coated in the warm syrup without overcooking. The nuts should be evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Assemble and Serve:

Pour the warm pecan cranberry mixture over your baked brie, allowing it to cascade down the sides. Serve immediately while still warm with an assortment of crackers or sliced baguette for dipping. The contrast between the creamy cheese and the crunchy, sweet topping creates the perfect bite.

pin it

The orange zest is my secret ingredient in this recipe. I discovered its importance when I accidentally left it out once, and the topping lacked that bright note that cuts through the richness. My mother-in-law specifically mentioned missing that "special something" before I realized my error. Now I always keep oranges on hand just for this recipe.

Make-Ahead Options

This brie can be prepped in advance to make entertaining easier. Trim the rind and place in your baking dish up to 24 hours ahead, keeping refrigerated. The maple honey topping can also be made up to three days in advance and stored in an airtight container. Simply rewarm the topping in a microwave or small saucepan before pouring over your freshly baked brie. This approach allows you to spend more time with guests rather than in the kitchen.

pin it

Flavor Variations

The basic framework of this recipe invites creative modifications based on your preferences or what you have available. Replace pecans with walnuts, pistachios, or even candied almonds for different texture and flavor profiles. Substitute dried cherries, blueberries, or chopped apricots for the cranberries. For a savory twist, add a sprinkle of fresh rosemary or thyme to the topping mixture. During summer months, I often top with fresh raspberries instead of dried fruit for a lighter version that showcases seasonal produce.

Serving Suggestions

While crackers and baguette slices are traditional accompaniments, consider offering apple and pear slices for a fresher option that pairs beautifully with the sweet topping. For a striking presentation, surround your baked brie with clusters of red grapes, additional nuts, and perhaps some fig slices. Serve alongside a medium-bodied wine like Pinot Noir or a crisp Chardonnay. This appetizer also works wonderfully as part of a larger cheese board with complementary items like honey comb, fruit preserves, and a variety of other cheeses for contrast.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What type of brie should I use?

Use a standard 8-ounce wheel of brie for best results. You can trim the rind if you prefer a creamier texture, but it’s entirely optional.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pecan mixture in advance and store it in the fridge. Bake the brie fresh and top it with the warmed mixture before serving.

→ What can I serve with baked brie?

Baguette slices, crackers, or fresh fruit like apple slices or grapes pair wonderfully with baked brie.

→ Can I substitute the pecans or cranberries?

Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds work well as substitutes, and dried cherries or raisins can replace cranberries if desired.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Wrap leftover baked brie tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven before serving.