Looking for a quick but impressive holiday appetizer? This Cranberry Pecan Baked Brie is gooey, festive, and absolutely irresistible. With only a few simple ingredients, it transforms into a show-stopping centerpiece for any cozy gathering.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Only 4 ingredients, ready in 15 minutes
- Sweet, savory, and creamy all in one bite
- Minimal prep but maximum wow factor
- Pairs beautifully with crackers, bread, or fruit
Ingredients
- 1 wheel of brie cheese (about 8 oz)
- ½ cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- ⅓ cup chopped pecans (toasted for extra flavor)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for extra sweetness)
- Crackers, bread, or apple slices (for serving)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the wheel of brie on a parchment-lined baking dish.
- Spoon cranberry sauce evenly over the top.
- Sprinkle with pecans and drizzle with honey or maple syrup if using.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, until the cheese is warm and gooey.
- Serve immediately with crackers, bread, or apple slices.
Tips & Variations
- Nut-Free: Omit pecans or replace with toasted pumpkin seeds.
- Savory Twist: Add fresh rosemary or thyme before baking.
- Extra Festive: Use a mix of cranberry and pomegranate arils on top.
- Bigger Crowd: Bake 2 wheels of brie side by side for a party platter.
Storage & Freezer Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Warm gently in the oven at 300°F until gooey again.
- Freezer: Not recommended — brie doesn’t freeze well once baked.
Serving & Pairing Ideas
- Serve with assorted crackers, toasted baguette slices, or apple wedges.
- Pair with sparkling cider.
- Add it to a festive cheese board with nuts, fruit, and other cheeses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to remove the rind from brie before baking?
No, the rind is edible and helps the cheese hold its shape.
Can I use different nuts instead of pecans?
Yes! Walnuts or almonds work just as well.
How do I keep baked brie warm for a party?
Place it on a warmed serving platter or keep it in a low oven until serving.
Can I make baked brie ahead of time?
You can assemble it a few hours ahead and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for the best texture.
Ready to Make It?
This Cranberry Pecan Baked Brie is the ultimate holiday appetizer — simple, elegant, and incredibly delicious. Save this recipe and add it to your holiday menu this season!
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- Chocolate Pecan Clusters – Easy homemade candy with crunchy pecans.
- Pumpkin Pie Stuffed Baked Apples – A warm and cozy dessert for gatherings.
Cranberry Pecan Baked Brie
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Cranberry Pecan Baked Brie is the ultimate easy holiday appetizer — warm, gooey brie topped with sweet-tart cranberry sauce, crunchy pecans, and a drizzle of honey. Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any festive gathering.
Ingredients
1 wheel of brie cheese (about 8 oz)
1/2 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
1/3 cup chopped pecans (toasted for extra flavor)
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
Crackers, bread, or apple slices (for serving)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Place the wheel of brie on a parchment-lined baking dish.
3. Spoon cranberry sauce evenly over the top.
4. Sprinkle with pecans and drizzle with honey or maple syrup if using.
5. Bake for 12–15 minutes, until the cheese is warm and gooey.
6. Serve immediately with crackers, bread, or apple slices.
Notes
Nut-Free: Omit pecans or replace with toasted pumpkin seeds.
Savory Twist: Add fresh rosemary or thyme before baking.
Extra Festive: Use cranberry and pomegranate arils for garnish.
Crowd Size: Bake 2 wheels of brie for larger gatherings.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Holiday Recipes
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, Holiday
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Fat: 13g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Protein: 8g