Baked Cranberry Brie

There’s something magical about the combination of warm, gooey Brie cheese and the tangy sweetness of cranberry sauce. This Baked Cranberry Brie recipe is your go-to for impressing guests with minimal effort.

Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or indulging in a cozy night at home, this dish offers elegance, flavor, and simplicity all in one.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

If you’re looking for a dish that’s easy to make yet delivers a gourmet experience, this recipe ticks all the boxes:

Quick and Simple: With just a few ingredients and 20 minutes of your time, you’ll have a show-stopping appetizer.

Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves the creamy, melty cheese paired with the tangy-sweet cranberry topping.
Versatile: Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or a romantic evening at home.

What You’ll Need:

Here’s a quick list of ingredients and tools to get you started:

Ingredients:

1 wheel of Brie cheese (8–12 oz)
1/2 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)

1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional for added crunch)
1 sheet of puff pastry (optional) or crackers for serving
Optional garnish: Fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs

Tools:

Parchment paper or a small oven-safe dish
Baking sheet

Knife for spreading and cutting

Ingredients in Detail:

Brie Cheese:

Choose a good-quality Brie wheel for this recipe. It should be soft and creamy, with a mild flavor. Both double- and triple-cream varieties work well.

Cranberry Sauce:

You can use store-bought cranberry sauce or make your own. Whole-berry cranberry sauce adds a more rustic and textured look to your dish, while jellied cranberry sauce offers a smooth finish.

Puff Pastry (Optional):

Wrapping the Brie in puff pastry adds a buttery, flaky layer that’s irresistible. However, if you’re short on time or prefer a simpler presentation, serving the Brie with crackers works just as well.

Optional Toppings:

Chopped pecans add crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of the cranberries. You can also experiment with walnuts, almonds, or even pistachios.

Instructions: Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating up, gather your ingredients and prep your workspace.

2. Prep the Brie:

Place the Brie on a parchment-lined baking sheet or a small oven-safe dish. If you’re using puff pastry, roll it out slightly and place the Brie in the center.

3. Add the Toppings:

Spread the cranberry sauce evenly over the top of the Brie. Sprinkle chopped pecans on top for added crunch, if desired. If you’re using puff pastry, wrap it around the Brie, sealing the edges to enclose the toppings.

4. Bake:

Place the prepared Brie in the oven and bake for 12–15 minutes. For puff pastry-wrapped Brie, bake for 20–25 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown. The cheese should be warm and gooey but not completely melted out.

5. Serve:

Carefully transfer the baked Brie to a serving plate. Garnish with fresh rosemary or thyme if desired. Serve warm with crackers, bread slices, or fruit.

Tips for the Best Baked Cranberry Brie

Room Temperature Cheese: Let the Brie sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before baking. This helps it heat evenly.

Watch Closely: Brie can go from perfectly gooey to overdone quickly. Keep an eye on it while it bakes.
Experiment with Flavors: Swap cranberry sauce for fig jam, raspberry preserves, or apricot jam for a different flavor profile.
Puff Pastry Shortcut: Use pre-rolled puff pastry to save time. Ensure it’s thawed but still cold when working with it.

Serving Ideas

Baked Cranberry Brie is versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments:

Crackers: Choose sturdy options like water crackers, whole-grain crackers, or breadsticks.

Bread: Serve with toasted baguette slices, crostini, or even warm pita bread.
Fruits: Add apple slices, pear wedges, or fresh grapes for a refreshing contrast.
Charcuterie Board: Include the Brie as part of a larger spread with cured meats, olives, and nuts.

Recipe Variations

1. Puff Pastry Wrapped Brie:

Wrap the Brie and toppings in puff pastry for a buttery, flaky twist. Brush the pastry with egg wash before baking for a golden finish.

2. Honey-Drizzled Brie:

Drizzle honey over the cranberry sauce before baking for extra sweetness. Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor.

3. Savory Herb Brie:

Mix chopped fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage into the cranberry sauce for a more savory take.

4. Maple-Pecan Brie:

Replace the cranberry sauce with a drizzle of maple syrup and top with pecans for a sweet and nutty version.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Storage:

If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating:

Warm the Brie in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes or until it’s heated through. Avoid using a microwave, as it can cause the cheese to separate.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the Brie with the toppings and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. If using puff pastry, wait to wrap it until just before baking to prevent sogginess.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Camembert is a great alternative to Brie. Its creamy texture and mild flavor work well with cranberry sauce.

What if I don’t have cranberry sauce?

You can substitute cranberry sauce with fig jam, raspberry preserves, or even caramelized onions for a unique twist.

How do I prevent the cheese from leaking?

If baking without puff pastry, place the Brie in a small dish with sides to contain any melted cheese. For puff pastry-wrapped Brie, ensure the edges are sealed tightly.

Fun Serving Ideas for Special Occasions

Holiday Centerpiece: Garnish the dish with sprigs of fresh rosemary and cranberries for a festive holiday look.

Rustic Style: Serve the baked Brie on a wooden cheese board surrounded by fruits, nuts, and crackers for a farmhouse-inspired vibe.
Mini Brie Bites: Use small Brie wheels or slices, topped with cranberry sauce and wrapped in puff pastry, to create bite-sized appetizers.

Closing Thoughts

Save this Baked Cranberry Brie recipe for your next gathering, and don’t forget to share your creations! Snap a pic and tag us—we’d love to see your cheesy masterpiece!