Julia Walton
A warm, gooey wheel of brie wrapped in golden flavor and topped with tart cranberries and sweet toasted pecans — this Easy Cranberry Pecan Baked Brie is the appetizer your holiday table has been waiting for. With just a handful of ingredients and barely any prep time, it delivers elegance with ease.
Perfect for entertaining or indulging in a cozy night at home, this baked brie transforms ordinary ingredients into an eye-catching centerpiece. The creaminess of the cheese paired with the crunch of pecans and the zing of cranberry sauce makes every bite irresistibly balanced.
What Kind of Brie Should I Use?
For best results, go for a whole wheel of double or triple cream brie—about 8 ounces is perfect. A ripe, soft brie will melt beautifully without becoming runny, giving you that creamy interior that stays inside its edible rind.
Ingredients for the Easy Cranberry Pecan Baked Brie
- Brie Wheel: The star of the show. Soft and creamy, it melts beautifully into a luscious base.
- Whole Cranberry Sauce: Brings tart sweetness and beautiful ruby color.
- Chopped Pecans: Toasted for extra crunch and nutty warmth.
- Brown Sugar: Adds caramelized depth that blends with the brie.
- Maple Syrup or Honey: For a glossy, sweet finish.
- Fresh Thyme (optional): Offers a savory, earthy contrast.
How To Make the Easy Cranberry Pecan Baked Brie
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the brie wheel on a parchment-lined baking dish or oven-safe serving plate. No need to remove the rind – it holds everything together!
Step 2: Toast the Pecans
In a small skillet over medium heat, toast the chopped pecans for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. This step brings out their rich, buttery flavor.
Step 3: Mix the Topping
In a bowl, stir together the cranberry sauce, brown sugar, maple syrup (or honey), toasted pecans, and a few sprigs of thyme if using.
Step 4: Top and Bake
Spoon the mixture over the brie. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the brie is soft to the touch but not collapsing.
Step 5: Serve Warm
Carefully transfer to a serving platter if needed. Serve immediately with crackers, crostini, or sliced apples.
Tips on Serving and Storing Baked Brie
Serve your Easy Cranberry Pecan Baked Brie right out of the oven while the cheese is still molten. Once cooled, it can be gently reheated in the oven for 5-7 minutes at 300°F. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving to revive the creamy texture.
What to Serve With Baked Brie?
Crisp Apple Slices
Sweet and slightly tart, they pair wonderfully with the warm brie.
Buttery Crackers or Crostini
Perfect for scooping up the gooey cheese and topping.
Fresh Grapes
Add a refreshing bite that cuts through the richness.
Prosciutto or Salami
A little salt and savory helps balance the sweet toppings.
Sparkling Wine
A glass of chilled Prosecco or Cava complements the creamy, nutty profile.
Roasted Vegetables
Great if you’re serving this as part of a grazing board or light dinner.
Want More Appetizer Ideas?
If you love this easy baked brie, you’ll definitely want to try these savory and satisfying bites:
- Jalapeno Popper Deviled Eggs for a spicy, creamy twist.
- Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Gravy perfect for dipping breads.
- Crispy Chicken Fried Chicken if you need a hearty, crispy protein to round out your appetizer spread.
- Parmesan Baked Potatoes for a crispy, cheesy side everyone will love.
- Creamy Crockpot Crack Chicken that’s amazing served with crackers or slider buns.
Save This Pin For Later
Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.
Tried it with a twist? Maybe added some crushed walnuts or a dash of cinnamon? I’d love to hear how it turned out—drop your thoughts or tips in the comments below.
Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on Savor Queen on Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there!
Easy Cranberry Pecan Baked Brie
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
If you’re searching for an easy appetizer that stuns with both flavor and beauty, this Easy Cranberry Pecan Baked Brie is the one to try. It’s the perfect blend of creamy brie cheese, sweet-tart cranberry sauce, buttery toasted pecans, and a drizzle of maple or honey to tie it all together. Serve it warm with crackers or apple slices for a show-stopping start to your meal. Great for holiday parties, special gatherings, or just an elevated snack night. This easy recipe delivers big flavor and elegant presentation with minimal effort. Whether you’re looking for quick holiday appetizers, easy dinner party starters, or unique food ideas, this one is a must-try.
Ingredients
8 oz brie wheel
1/2 cup whole cranberry sauce
1/3 cup chopped pecans
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a small baking dish with parchment paper and place the brie wheel on top.
2. Toast the chopped pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently.
3. In a bowl, mix cranberry sauce, brown sugar, maple syrup or honey, toasted pecans, and thyme.
4. Spoon the mixture over the brie.
5. Bake for 12–15 minutes, until brie is soft to the touch but still holds shape.
6. Remove and serve immediately with crackers, crostini, or fruit slices.
Notes
You can prep the topping mixture ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to bake.
For extra flair, serve with a garnish of rosemary or drizzle of balsamic glaze.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 wheel
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: baked brie, cranberry pecan brie, holiday appetizer, easy appetizer, baked cheese recipe