Easy Cranberry Pecan Baked Brie

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When it comes to effortless elegance, few appetizers make a statement quite like a warm wheel of brie, baked until gooey and golden, then crowned with a sweet-tart cranberry topping and crunchy pecans. This Easy Cranberry Pecan Baked Brie is a festive, crowd-pleasing appetizer that comes together in minutes but delivers maximum flavor and visual appeal.

Perfect for the holidays, dinner parties, or even a cozy evening in, this dish blends creamy, melty brie with the bright punch of cranberry sauce and the rich nuttiness of toasted pecans. Whether you’re entertaining or just want to treat yourself, this is the kind of indulgence that feels both special and simple.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Cranberry Pecan Baked Brie

This appetizer is a perfect balance of textures and flavors. The creamy brie contrasts with the crunchy pecans and the slightly tart cranberry sauce. It’s also incredibly easy to make. You only need a few ingredients and about 15 minutes, making it a go-to when time is tight but you still want something that feels luxurious.

Plus, it’s endlessly customizable. You can play with the toppings, use homemade or store-bought cranberry sauce, and choose to bake it wrapped in puff pastry or not. It looks stunning on a holiday platter surrounded by crackers or sliced apples.

Can I Use a Different Cheese or Do I Need Brie?

While brie is traditional for baked cheese appetizers due to its creamy texture and edible rind, you could use camembert as a substitute. Camembert has a similar flavor profile and melts beautifully. However, brie’s mild creaminess is especially ideal for balancing the boldness of the cranberry and pecan topping. We recommend sticking with brie for the best melt and taste.

Ingredients for the Easy Cranberry Pecan Baked Brie

This dish keeps it simple with just a handful of ingredients, all bringing something special to the flavor and texture.

• Brie wheel
  This is the star of the show. Choose a 7–10 oz round for optimal melting and portion size. Brie softens into a creamy, decadent base that pairs perfectly with sweet and nutty toppings.
• Whole berry cranberry sauce
  Adds tartness and sweetness in one spoonful. The whole berries bring texture and color, making the presentation beautiful.
• Chopped pecans
  Toasty, crunchy, and slightly buttery, pecans give the dish a much-needed contrast to the creamy cheese.
• Maple syrup or honey
  A drizzle of either adds extra warmth and a touch of sweetness to balance the tart cranberries.
• Fresh rosemary (optional)
  Adds an herbal hint that elevates the whole dish, especially when serving for the holidays.
• Crackers, crostini, or sliced apples
  For dipping or spreading, these act as the vehicle for all that gooey, cheesy goodness.

How To Make the Easy Cranberry Pecan Baked Brie

Step 1: Prep the Brie

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Place the brie on a parchment-lined baking sheet or inside a small baking dish. If you’d like, score the top rind lightly in a criss-cross pattern to help the toppings seep in.

Step 2: Top with Cranberries and Pecans

Spread a generous layer of cranberry sauce over the top of the brie. Sprinkle chopped pecans on top and gently press them into the sauce. Drizzle everything with maple syrup or honey.

Step 3: Bake Until Melty

Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the brie is soft to the touch and beginning to ooze slightly. Keep an eye on it—overbaking can cause it to burst completely.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and let rest for a couple of minutes. Garnish with a few rosemary sprigs if using, and serve warm with crackers, crostini, or fresh apple slices.

Serving and Storing Your Easy Cranberry Pecan Baked Brie

This dish is best served hot and fresh from the oven when the brie is at its softest and most scoopable. It feeds around 6 to 8 people as an appetizer, depending on how many other dishes you’re serving.

If you have leftovers (which isn’t likely!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at a low temperature—just enough to make the cheese soft again.

What to Serve With Easy Cranberry Pecan Baked Brie?

Sliced Apples or Pears

Crisp, juicy fruit adds a refreshing counterbalance to the richness of the brie.

Buttery Crackers

A classic pairing that keeps things simple and lets the flavors of the brie shine.

Crostini or Toasted Baguette

Adds crunch and a rustic touch. Choose sourdough for extra depth.

Prosciutto or Salami

Salted cured meats make this appetizer feel like a complete charcuterie board.

Sparkling Wine or Rosé

The bubbles and acidity pair wonderfully with the creamy cheese and sweet topping.

Mixed Nuts

Serve a small bowl alongside to amplify the pecan notes and give variety in texture.

Fig Jam or Apricot Preserves

A great complement if you’re offering multiple toppings or sides for dipping.

Want More Appetizer Ideas?

If this Easy Cranberry Pecan Baked Brie hit the spot, you’ll want to explore more cheesy, savory bites perfect for entertaining:

• Cheesy Baked Tortellini with Meat Sauce brings a heartier option to the table.

• Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta for an indulgent, weeknight comfort meal.

• Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe that’s quick, cozy, and full of flavor.

• Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta when you’re short on time but craving something rich.

• Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce if you love a fusion of cheesy and meaty goodness.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest appetizer board so you can come back to it anytime.

Let me know in the comments how your baked brie turned out. Did you toast your pecans first? Add a dash of cinnamon or orange zest? I love seeing your spins on this dish!

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