Imagine a dish that combines the creamy decadence of Brie cheese with the vibrant sweetness of cranberry and maple, all topped with crunchy pecans and aromatic thyme. Welcome to your new favorite appetizer: Cranberry Maple Baked Brie! Perfect for your next gathering or cozy family dinner, this show-stopping recipe is not only easy to prepare but also guaranteed to impress your guests. With just 30 minutes of your time, you can create a warm, gooey delight that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Ready to elevate your culinary game? Let’s dive into this delectable recipe!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 wheel of Brie cheese
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans
- 1 tsp fresh thyme
- Baguette or crackers for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Remove the Brie wheel from refrigeration and let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes to soften slightly, which helps it bake more evenly.
- Place the Brie wheel in the center of the prepared baking sheet. If desired, carefully trim off the top rind using a sharp knife to help the toppings penetrate the cheese.
- In a small bowl, mix the cranberry sauce and maple syrup until well combined, creating a sweet and tangy glaze.
- Drizzle the cranberry-maple mixture evenly over the top of the Brie, allowing some to cascade down the sides.
- Sprinkle the chopped pecans over the top of the cheese, ensuring an even distribution for maximum crunch and flavor.
- Gently press the pecans into the surface of the cheese to help them adhere during baking.
- Carefully transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is soft and beginning to ooze but not completely melted.
- Remove from the oven and immediately garnish with fresh thyme leaves for an aromatic finishing touch.
- Let the Brie rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set slightly and prevent burning.
- Serve warm with sliced baguette or crackers, allowing guests to scoop the melted cheese and toppings directly onto their bread.
Tips
- Soften the Cheese: Allow the Brie to sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before baking. This ensures it bakes evenly and achieves that perfect gooey texture.
- Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to get creative! You can add dried fruits, such as figs or apricots, or even a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep a close eye on the Brie as it bakes. You want it to be soft and oozing but not completely melted. Aim for a golden, bubbly top!
- Serve with Variety: Offer a selection of accompaniments like sliced baguette, crackers, or even apple slices to complement the richness of the cheese.
- Garnish for Flavor: Fresh thyme not only adds a beautiful touch but also enhances the overall flavor profile. Don’t skip this step!
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the cranberry-maple mixture and pecans ahead of time. Just assemble and bake when you’re ready to serve.
- Perfect Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with a glass of sparkling wine or a light-bodied red, making it an excellent choice for entertaining.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 170kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 20mg
