Easy Cranberry Pecan Baked Brie (Holiday Appetizer) Recipe
Introduction
This Easy Cranberry Pecan Baked Brie is a perfect festive appetizer that combines creamy cheese with sweet and tangy cranberry sauce, crunchy pecans, and a touch of honey. It’s simple to prepare and always impresses guests during the holidays or any special occasion.
Ingredients
- 250-350 g wheel of double cream brie cheese
- 1/3 cup cranberry sauce
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans
- Zest from half an orange
- 1 1/2 tbsp honey
- Optional: handful of fresh or frozen cranberries
- Fresh rosemary for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper. Place the wheel of brie in the dish and lightly score the top in a diagonal pattern with a sharp knife.
- Step 2: Spread the cranberry sauce evenly over the brie. Sprinkle the chopped pecans on top, add the orange zest, and drizzle with honey.
- Step 3: Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, until the cheese is bubbling and beginning to ooze. Garnish with fresh rosemary and serve warm with crackers or toasted baguette slices.
Tips & Variations
- For extra color and texture, add a handful of fresh or frozen cranberries before baking.
- Try using maple syrup instead of honey for a different sweet note.
- Serve with crostini, pretzels, or apple slices for varied dipping options.
Storage
Store any leftover baked brie covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a low oven until warmed through, but avoid overheating to prevent the cheese from separating. It’s best enjoyed fresh and warm.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
You can assemble the brie with toppings and refrigerate for a few hours before baking. Just bring it to room temperature before placing it in the oven for even cooking.
What type of brie is best for this recipe?
A double cream brie works best because of its creamy texture and mild flavor, which pairs beautifully with the sweet and tart toppings.
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Easy Cranberry Pecan Baked Brie (Holiday Appetizer) Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Cranberry Pecan Baked Brie is a perfect holiday appetizer featuring creamy double cream brie cheese topped with tangy cranberry sauce, crunchy pecans, fresh orange zest, and a drizzle of honey. Baked until bubbly and golden, it’s garnished with fresh rosemary and pairs beautifully with crackers or toasted baguette slices for an elegant and crowd-pleasing starter.
Ingredients
Cheese
- 250–350 g wheel of double cream brie cheese
Toppings
- 1/3 cup cranberry sauce
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans
- Zest from half an orange
- 1 1/2 tbsp honey
- Optional: handful of fresh or frozen cranberries
Garnish
- Fresh rosemary for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper. Place the wheel of brie in the parchment-lined dish and lightly score the top of the brie in a diagonal pattern with a sharp knife to help the flavors penetrate.
- Add Toppings: Spoon the cranberry sauce evenly over the top of the brie, then sprinkle the chopped pecans and orange zest. Drizzle 1 to 2 tablespoons of honey over everything, and optionally scatter fresh or frozen cranberries if using.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the brie for 18-22 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and nearly oozing out.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh rosemary, and serve immediately with your favorite crackers or toasted baguette slices (crostini) for dipping.
Notes
- Be careful not to overbake the brie; it should be soft and melty inside but not completely melted away.
- You can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different nutty crunch.
- For a festive touch, add a sprinkle of cinnamon or cloves to the topping mixture.
- If using frozen cranberries, thaw them slightly so they warm in the oven without being icy cold.
- Serve warm for the best creamy texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: baked brie, cranberry brie, holiday appetizer, pecan cheese appetizer, baked cheese, festive appetizer, brunch appetizer
