Cranberry Pecan Baked Brie Recipe Perfect for Holidays

The creamy, gooey goodness of warm brie paired with tart cranberry sauce and crunchy pecans is pure magic. Picture this: a wheel of brie baked to melty perfection, topped with a festive mix of flavors that scream holiday cheer. This Cranberry Pecan Baked Brie recipe is my go-to for entertaining—it’s easy to make yet fancy enough to impress even the pickiest guests. Whether you’re hosting a Christmas party or looking for an appetizer to bring to a Thanksgiving potluck, this dish guarantees smiles and empty plates.

I first discovered baked brie at a family gathering years ago, and honestly, it was love at first bite. Over time, I’ve tweaked the recipe to make it my own, combining the juicy sweetness of cranberries with the buttery crunch of pecans. The result? A crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s not just delicious but also stunning to look at. Trust me, this Cranberry Pecan Baked Brie will be the star of your holiday table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: This recipe comes together in under 20 minutes, making it perfect for last-minute entertaining.
• Minimal Ingredients: You only need a handful of ingredients, most of which you probably already have in your pantry.
• Show-Stopping Presentation: The vibrant cranberry topping paired with golden baked brie is a feast for the eyes.
• Perfect for Holidays: Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or New Year’s Eve, this appetizer fits right into the festive vibe.
• Customizable: Swap pecans for walnuts or use apricot jam instead of cranberry sauce—the possibilities are endless.

What sets this recipe apart is the balance of flavors and textures. The creaminess of the brie, the tangy cranberry sauce, and the crunch of toasted pecans create a harmony that’s irresistible. Plus, it’s the kind of dish that makes your guests feel special without requiring hours in the kitchen. You’ll love how easy it is to make—and they’ll love how good it tastes!

What Ingredients You Will Need

This Cranberry Pecan Baked Brie calls for simple, high-quality ingredients that work together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Brie Cheese: One wheel of brie (about 8–12 ounces). Look for double or triple cream for the best meltability.
• Cranberry Sauce: Use homemade or store-bought. If using store-bought, opt for whole berry for added texture.
• Pecans: Roughly chopped and toasted for extra crunch and flavor.
• Brown Sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the tangy cranberries.
• Honey: Drizzle over the top for a glossy finish and extra sweetness.
• Fresh Thyme (Optional): For garnish, giving the dish a hint of earthiness and a pop of green.
• Crackers or Bread: To serve alongside for dipping and scooping.

Pro tip: When choosing brie, go for one with a soft rind that you can eat. The rind adds extra flavor and texture to the dish. If you can’t find pecans, walnuts work just as well—and for a nut-free option, try pumpkin seeds!

Equipment Needed

The beauty of this recipe is that you don’t need a ton of fancy kitchen equipment. Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

• Baking Dish: A small oven-safe dish or skillet to bake the brie.
• Knife: For chopping pecans and scoring the rind of the brie.
• Spatula or Spoon: To spread the cranberry sauce and arrange toppings.
• Parchment Paper: Optional, but helpful for easy cleanup.

If you don’t have a baking dish, a pie pan or even a cast iron skillet works perfectly. Just make sure it’s oven-safe—and don’t forget to toast the pecans for maximum flavor!

Preparation Method

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and let it fully preheat while you prepare the brie.
2. Toast the pecans: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the chopped pecans for 3–4 minutes, stirring frequently. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Prepare the brie: Place the brie wheel in your baking dish. Optional: Score the rind lightly with a knife in a crisscross pattern to help it melt evenly.
4. Add the toppings: Spread the cranberry sauce evenly over the top of the brie. Sprinkle the toasted pecans and brown sugar over the cranberry layer.
5. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10–15 minutes, or until the brie is soft and melty but not completely oozing out.
6. Finish with honey: Remove the brie from the oven and drizzle with honey. Garnish with fresh thyme if desired.
7. Serve: Transfer the brie to a serving platter (or serve directly from the baking dish) with crackers or sliced baguette on the side.

Pro tip: Keep an eye on the brie while it’s baking to prevent over-melting. You want it gooey but still intact—check after 10 minutes to see if it’s ready!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here are a few tips to ensure your Cranberry Pecan Baked Brie turns out perfectly every time:

• Don’t skip toasting the pecans: Toasting brings out their natural oils and intensifies the flavor.
• Use room-temperature brie: Let the brie sit out for 20–30 minutes before baking to help it melt evenly.
• Customize the toppings: Swap cranberry sauce for apricot preserves or fig jam for a different flavor profile.
• Serve immediately: Baked brie is best enjoyed warm and gooey. Assemble everything before guests arrive, then pop it in the oven 15 minutes before serving.

And here’s a fun tip: If you’re making this for a large group, bake two wheels of brie side by side—it’s such a hit that one might not be enough!

Variations & Adaptations

Want to make this recipe your own? Here are some ideas for adapting it to suit different tastes or dietary needs:

• Gluten-Free: Serve with gluten-free crackers or sliced apples instead of bread.
• Nut-Free: Replace pecans with pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for crunch without the allergens.
• Seasonal Twist: Swap cranberry sauce for fig jam or apple butter for a fall-inspired flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the cranberry topping for a hint of heat.

One variation I love is using maple syrup instead of honey and adding a pinch of cinnamon to the cranberry sauce. It gives the dish a warm, cozy vibe that’s perfect for chilly winter evenings!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This Cranberry Pecan Baked Brie is best served warm, right out of the oven. Here’s how you can present it:

• Serving Temperature: Serve immediately while the brie is gooey and melted.
• Presentation: Garnish with fresh thyme and serve on a wooden platter alongside crackers, sliced baguette, or apple slices.
• Storage: If you have leftovers (unlikely!), wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–7 minutes or until heated through.

Pro tip: The flavors deepen after a day, so leftovers make a great snack—if there are any left at all!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional profile for this Cranberry Pecan Baked Brie:

• Calories: Approximately 200 per serving (depending on portion size).
• Protein: Brie provides a good source of protein per serving.
• Healthy Fats: Pecans are rich in heart-healthy fats.
• Antioxidants: Cranberries contain antioxidants that support overall health.

While this dish is indulgent, it also offers nutritional benefits from the nuts and cranberries. Moderation is key—but let’s be honest, it’s hard to stop at just one bite!

Conclusion

This Cranberry Pecan Baked Brie recipe is a holiday game-changer. It’s simple, stunning, and packed with irresistible flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you’re hosting a party or just treating yourself to something special, this dish is the ultimate crowd-pleaser.

I love how versatile it is—you can tweak the toppings to suit your mood or the season, and it’s always a hit. Give it a try, and let me know how you make it your own. Don’t forget to snap a photo and share your masterpiece in the comments below—I can’t wait to see your creations!

Happy baking, and here’s to making the holidays extra delicious!

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the brie with toppings a few hours ahead and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.

What type of brie works best?

Double or triple cream brie melts beautifully and gives the dish a luxurious texture.

Can I use dried cranberries instead of cranberry sauce?

Dried cranberries can be used, but they won’t have the same tangy, juicy flavor. Consider rehydrating them in warm water first.

What can I serve with baked brie?

Crackers, sliced baguette, apple slices, or even celery sticks work great for dipping and scooping.

How do I prevent the brie from over-melting?

Keep an eye on it while baking. Check after 10 minutes and remove it from the oven as soon as it’s soft and gooey.

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