Imagine a dish that perfectly balances creamy, rich Brie cheese with the sweet-tart flavor of cranberry sauce and the delightful crunch of pistachios. This "Brie with Cranberry Sauce and Pistachios" recipe is not just a treat for the taste buds; it's a showstopper that will impress your guests at any gathering! Whether you're hosting a festive holiday party or simply indulging in a cozy night in, this mouthwatering appetizer is sure to steal the spotlight. Ready to elevate your entertaining game? Dive into this easy-to-follow recipe and create a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 wheel of Brie cheese
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
- 1/2 cup chopped pistachios
- 1 baguette, sliced
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove the Brie cheese from the refrigerator 30 minutes before baking to bring it to room temperature.
- Place the whole wheel of Brie on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or in a small oven-safe baking dish.
- Using a sharp knife, carefully score the top rind of the Brie in a light crosshatch pattern, creating small diamond-shaped cuts. This allows the cheese to melt more evenly and helps the toppings penetrate the surface.
- Spread the homemade or store-bought cranberry sauce evenly over the top of the Brie, ensuring it covers most of the surface.
- Sprinkle the chopped pistachios generously over the cranberry sauce, creating a crunchy and colorful topping.
- Place the Brie in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is soft and beginning to ooze but not completely melted.
- While the Brie is baking, slice the baguette diagonally into thin rounds and arrange on a serving platter.
- Remove the Brie from the oven and let it rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the cheese to settle and cool slightly.
- Carefully transfer the baked Brie to a serving plate, surrounding it with the sliced baguette pieces.
- Serve immediately while the cheese is warm and soft, allowing guests to spread the melted Brie and cranberry mixture onto the baguette slices.
Tips
- Room Temperature Brie: Remember to take the Brie out of the refrigerator at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps it melt evenly and enhances its creamy texture.
- Score the Rind: Scoring the top of the Brie not only helps it melt more evenly but also allows the cranberry sauce to seep into the cheese, intensifying the flavors.
- Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to get creative! You can mix in some chopped herbs like rosemary or thyme with the pistachios for an aromatic twist.
- Watch the Baking Time: Keep a close eye on the Brie as it bakes. You want it to be soft and gooey, but not completely melted. Aim for that perfect ooze!
- Serve with Variety: While a baguette is classic, consider adding other dippables like apple slices, crackers, or even pretzel crisps for added texture and flavor.
- Presentation is Key: Arrange the baked Brie on a beautiful platter, surrounded by the sliced baguette, and drizzle a little extra cranberry sauce on top for a stunning presentation.
- Enjoy Warm: Serve the Brie immediately while it’s warm and gooey for the best experience. Guests will love spreading the melted cheese and cranberry sauce on their bread!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 50mg
