Cranberry Pecan Baked Brie

This cranberry pecan baked brie transforms a simple wheel of cheese into a show-stopping appetizer that balances creamy, sweet, and nutty flavors perfectly. The warm, melted cheese combined with the maple-honey glazed nuts creates an irresistible combination that disappears within minutes at every gathering.

I first served this at an impromptu holiday gathering when I needed something elegant but quick. The entire wheel vanished before I could even announce what it was, and now it's become my signature appetizer that friends specifically request when they visit.

Ingredients

• Brie cheese wheel: preferably a quality French variety with a mild flavor that won't compete with the toppings
• Brown sugar: adds a rich caramel note that helps the cheese caramelize slightly
• Honey: use local if possible for the most complex flavor
• Maple syrup: splurge on pure maple syrup rather than pancake syrup for authentic flavor
• Unsalted butter: creates silky texture in the topping
• Cinnamon and nutmeg: these warming spices enhance the holiday feel of the dish
• Orange zest: provides brightness that cuts through the richness
• Pecan halves: choose fresh nuts with good color for best flavor and texture
• Dried cranberries: look for plump ones without added sugar if possible

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the brie:

Trim the rind from the top of your wheel then place it on a rimmed baking sheet or small cast iron skillet. Sprinkle brown sugar evenly across the exposed cheese surface. The sugar will melt into the cheese creating pockets of sweetness throughout.

Bake to perfection:

Place the prepared brie into your preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes until the cheese is soft and slightly bulging at the sides. You want the center completely melted but not so hot that it loses its structure entirely. Let it rest for exactly 5 minutes before serving so it maintains some shape.

Create the maple honey topping:

While the brie bakes combine your brown sugar honey maple syrup butter cinnamon nutmeg and orange zest in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly until the mixture comes to a gentle boil then reduce heat and allow it to simmer until it becomes slightly foamy about 1-2 minutes. The butter will emulsify with the sugars creating a velvety sauce.

Add the texture elements:

Stir chopped pecans and dried cranberries into your hot syrup mixture allowing them to become fully coated. The nuts will slightly toast in the residual heat while the cranberries will plump slightly absorbing some of the syrup flavors.

Assemble and serve:

Pour the warm nut mixture directly over your baked brie creating a generous mound of glistening toppings. Serve immediately with an assortment of crackers sliced baguette or apple slices for dipping.

Pin it

The orange zest in this recipe is my secret weapon. I discovered its importance by accident when making this during the holidays one year. That bright citrus note cuts through the richness perfectly and elevates this from a simple melted cheese to something truly memorable. My mother-in-law even requested the recipe after claiming for years that she "doesn't like brie."

Make-Ahead Options

This appetizer can be prepared completely in advance and refrigerated until ready to bake. Simply assemble the brie with brown sugar on your serving dish and make the pecan topping separately. Store both components in the refrigerator, then bake the cheese and rewarm the topping just before serving. The topping will thicken when chilled but will loosen again when gently heated.

Pin it

Variation Ideas

The basic formula of this recipe is wonderfully adaptable to different flavor profiles. For a savory twist, replace the sweet elements with rosemary, thyme and a drizzle of good olive oil. Another delicious variation uses pistachios and dried cherries instead of pecans and cranberries. For a touch of decadence, add a splash of bourbon to the honey mixture before simmering. Each variation maintains the essential creamy-crunchy contrast while offering new flavor combinations.

Serving Suggestions

While crackers and baguette slices are traditional accompaniments, this baked brie also pairs wonderfully with thinly sliced apples, pears, or even endive leaves for a lower-carb option. For a complete appetizer spread, serve alongside a simple charcuterie selection, fresh grapes, and fig jam. The balance of sweet, creamy, and salty elements creates an impressive starter for any gathering.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I keep the brie from spreading while baking?

Place the brie on a rimmed baking sheet or in a small cast iron skillet to keep it contained while baking. This prevents any melted cheese from spreading too far.

→ Can I prepare the toppings in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the pecan cranberry mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Warm it slightly before using to make it easier to spread over the brie.

→ What crackers pair best with baked brie?

Multigrain crackers, water crackers, or slices of a baguette work well as they complement the brie without overpowering its flavor.

→ Can I substitute other nuts for pecans?

Absolutely! Walnuts or slivered almonds can be used in place of pecans for a different flavor and texture.

→ Do I need to trim the rind from the brie?

Trimming the rind is optional and mainly a matter of personal preference. The rind is edible, but trimming it results in a creamier consistency for the dish.

→ Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

Fresh cranberries can be used, but they may need to be cooked in the maple honey drizzle to soften and reduce their tartness.