Cranberry Pecan Baked Brie
Highlighted under: Home-Style Dessert Bakes
Elevate your entertaining with this delightful Cranberry Pecan Baked Brie recipe. Creamy brie cheese is topped with tart cranberry sauce and crunchy pecans, enveloped in a flaky pastry for a warm and gooey appetizer that's both sweet and savory. Perfect for holiday gatherings, cheese boards, or cozy nights in, this dish will impress your guests and leave them craving more.
This Cranberry Pecan Baked Brie recipe combines the rich, creamy texture of brie cheese with the tartness of cranberry sauce and the crunch of pecans, all encased in a flaky pastry. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for any occasion.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Cranberry Pecan Baked Brie is an exquisite dish that transcends seasonal boundaries. While it shines as a festive appetizer during holiday gatherings, its delicious combination of flavors makes it suitable for any occasion. Whether it's a casual game night, a romantic dinner, or a fancy cocktail party, this decadent baked brie will be the star of the table.
The combination of creamy brie, tart cranberries, and crunchy pecans offers a delightful medley of textures and tastes that appeal to a wide audience. Guests will be drawn to its visual allure, and the heavenly aroma wafting through the room will have everyone eagerly anticipating their first bite.
A Flavorful Twist on Classic Brie
Brie cheese is already a beloved favorite, but this recipe elevates it to new culinary heights. The tartness of cranberry sauce cuts through the creaminess of the brie, creating a balanced flavor profile that's both sweet and savory. The addition of pecans introduces a satisfying crunch, enhancing the overall sensory experience.
This dish is also flexible — you can incorporate additional ingredients like honey for extra sweetness or herbs like rosemary for an aromatic twist. This adaptability allows you to customize the dish according to your taste or to match the preferences of your guests.
Easy to Make, Impossible to Resist
One of the best aspects of the Cranberry Pecan Baked Brie is its simplicity. Despite its elegant presentation and gourmet taste, the recipe requires minimal effort and basic ingredients. Busy hosts will find that it can be prepared quickly, freeing up time for other aspects of entertaining.
Whether you’re an experienced chef or a kitchen novice, you’ll appreciate how straightforward the steps are. With just a few ingredients and a little time in the oven, you’ll have a show-stopping appetizer that friends and family will rave about for weeks to come.
Ingredients
For the Baked Brie
- 1 round of Brie cheese
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
These ingredients come together to create a deliciously warm and gooey appetizer.
Steps to Prepare
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the Brie
Place the Brie on a sheet of puff pastry. Top it with the cranberry sauce and chopped pecans.
Wrap the Brie
Fold the puff pastry over the Brie, sealing it well. Brush the top with the beaten egg.
Bake
Place the wrapped Brie on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Serve
Allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy it warm with crackers or sliced bread.
Enjoy the gooey, melty goodness of your baked Brie!
Serving Suggestions
To maximize enjoyment, serve your Cranberry Pecan Baked Brie alongside an assortment of accompaniments. Crackers, slices of fresh baguette, or toasted bread are great options that allow guests to scoop up the warm, gooey cheese effortlessly. You can also include fruit, such as pear or apple slices, which complement the brie and offer a refreshing contrast.
For an added layer of flavor, consider pairing this dish with a selection of wines. A crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, or a light-bodied red, like Pinot Noir, can enhance the taste experience, making your gathering feel even more special.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers (which is unlikely!), consider how to store your remaining baked brie properly. Allow it to cool to room temperature before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or transferring it to an airtight container. Stored this way, it should remain fresh in the fridge for up to three days.
When the time comes to reheat, place the brie in a preheated oven at a low temperature (around 350°F or 175°C) until warmed through. This method helps to maintain the creamy texture and ensures that the delicious flavors are retained.
Nutritional Insights
While Cranberry Pecan Baked Brie is an indulgent treat, it also has some nutritional benefits. Brie cheese is a good source of calcium, protein, and essential vitamins. The addition of cranberries brings antioxidants and dietary fiber to the dish, while pecans contribute healthy fats and nutrients that promote heart health.
Like any appetizer, moderation is key. Enjoying this baked brie as part of a balanced diet is a great way to savor its delicious flavors without feeling guilt. Pair it with fresh vegetables or a light salad for a more nutritious spread.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it and refrigerate it before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the bake time.
→ What can I serve with this dish?
It's great with crackers, bread, or fresh fruit.
Cranberry Pecan Baked Brie
Elevate your entertaining with this delightful Cranberry Pecan Baked Brie recipe. Creamy brie cheese is topped with tart cranberry sauce and crunchy pecans, enveloped in a flaky pastry for a warm and gooey appetizer that's both sweet and savory. Perfect for holiday gatherings, cheese boards, or cozy nights in, this dish will impress your guests and leave them craving more.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Home-Style Dessert Bakes
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 8.0
What You'll Need
For the Baked Brie
- 1 round of Brie cheese
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Place the Brie on a sheet of puff pastry. Top it with the cranberry sauce and chopped pecans.
Fold the puff pastry over the Brie, sealing it well. Brush the top with the beaten egg.
Place the wrapped Brie on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy it warm with crackers or sliced bread.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 250mg
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 5g
- Protein: 6g