Name: Baked Brie with Cranberries and Pecans
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: PT-489031H1M57S
Cuisine: French-American Fusion
Ingredients: 1 wheel (8 oz) brie cheese; 1/4 cup dried cranberries; 1/4 cup chopped pecans (toasted); 1–2 tbsp maple syrup or honey; Optional: 1 sheet puff pastry (for wrapped version); Crackers, sliced apples, or baguette, for serving

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Baked Brie with Cranberries and Pecans is one of those effortlessly elegant appetizers I love pulling out during the holidays—or whenever I want to impress with minimal effort. The warm, gooey brie topped with sweet-tart cranberries and crunchy toasted pecans creates a beautiful contrast of flavors and textures. It’s rich, festive, and always the first thing gone from the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it feels fancy but couldn’t be easier. It takes just a few minutes to prep, but it looks stunning when served warm and melty. The buttery brie melts into creamy perfection, while the cranberries bring a bright sweetness and the pecans add just the right crunch. It’s a crowd-pleaser that works just as well at a cozy dinner party as it does at a big holiday gathering.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Wheel of brie cheese (usually 8 oz)
Dried cranberries
Chopped pecans (toasted for extra flavor)
Maple syrup or honey
Puff pastry (optional, if I want a wrapped version)
Crackers, apple slices, or baguette for serving

Directions

I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
I place the brie wheel on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in a small oven-safe dish.
In a small bowl, I mix the cranberries, chopped pecans, and maple syrup or honey.
I spoon the mixture over the top of the brie, letting it slightly cascade down the sides.
I bake it uncovered for about 12–15 minutes, just until the brie is soft and melty in the center.
I serve it immediately with crackers, fresh fruit, or sliced baguette while the cheese is warm and gooey.

Optional puff pastry version:
Sometimes I wrap the brie in puff pastry before baking. I seal the edges, brush it with egg wash, and bake it at 400°F for about 20–25 minutes, until the pastry is golden.

Servings and Timing

This baked brie serves 6–8 people as an appetizer. It takes 5 minutes to prep and about 15 minutes to bake. If I use puff pastry, the bake time increases to 25 minutes.

Variations

I like switching things up depending on what I have on hand. I’ve used walnuts or sliced almonds instead of pecans, and sometimes I swap in fig jam or apricot preserves for the cranberries. For a more savory touch, I add a pinch of rosemary or thyme to the topping. And when I want something ultra-decadent, I wrap it in puff pastry and serve it like a centerpiece.

Storage/Reheating

If I have leftovers (which is rare), I store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I place the brie in an oven-safe dish and warm it in a 300°F oven until soft again—usually around 10 minutes. I avoid microwaving because it can turn the cheese rubbery.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, I often prep the topping and assemble everything ahead. I store it in the fridge, then bake it right before serving so it’s warm and melty.

Do I need to remove the rind from the brie?

Nope. I always leave the rind on—it’s edible and helps the cheese hold its shape while baking.

What’s the best kind of brie for baking?

I like using a standard 8 oz round of brie. It melts beautifully and gives me the perfect portion for a small group. Look for a double cream for extra richness.

Can I use frozen puff pastry?

Yes, I always thaw it in the fridge overnight before using. I make sure it’s pliable but still cold when I wrap the brie for the best results.

What do I serve with baked brie?

I usually serve it with a mix of crackers, apple slices, pears, or toasted baguette slices. The sweet and savory flavors go well with crisp or crusty pairings.

Conclusion

Baked Brie with Cranberries and Pecans is my go-to when I want something warm, elegant, and effortless. It brings together creamy cheese, sweet cranberries, and buttery nuts in the best way. Whether I serve it with wine at a party or set it out as a cozy snack, it always adds a touch of magic to the table.