Are you looking for an easy yet impressive appetizer or a show-stopping addition to your holiday spread? Look no further! This baked brie with cranberry pecan topping is the perfect solution. It's incredibly simple to make, requiring minimal ingredients and even less effort, yet delivers a burst of flavor that will wow your guests. This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something delicious without the fuss, or for those special occasions when you want to impress. Get ready for a taste sensation that combines the creamy richness of brie with the sweet-tartness of cranberries and the satisfying crunch of pecans. This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients:
- 1 wheel (8 ounces) of brie cheese, rind intact
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1/4 cup pecan halves, roughly chopped
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
Instructions:
Get started: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your brie bakes perfectly and the topping gets beautifully golden brown.
Prepare the brie: Place the brie wheel in an oven-safe dish. You can use a small baking dish, a ramekin, or even directly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Make the topping: In a small bowl, combine the cranberry sauce, chopped pecans, brown sugar, and melted butter. Mix gently until everything is well combined. The melted butter helps bind the topping and adds richness.
Assemble & Bake: Spoon the cranberry pecan mixture evenly over the top of the brie. Make sure to cover the entire surface for even baking and delicious flavor distribution.
Bake to perfection: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the brie is soft and gooey, and the topping is bubbly and slightly browned. Keep a close eye on it during the last few minutes to prevent burning.
Serve & Enjoy: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. The brie will be incredibly hot when it comes out of the oven, so a few minutes of cooling time is recommended. Serve with crackers, baguette slices, or apple slices for a truly delightful experience.
Tips for the Best Baked Brie:
- Room temperature brie: For optimal melting and a smoother texture, take the brie out of the refrigerator about 30 minutes before baking.
- Don't overbake: Overbaking can result in a dry brie. Keep a close eye on it and remove it from the oven as soon as it’s melted and bubbly.
- Get creative with toppings: Feel free to experiment with different toppings! Try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon, a drizzle of honey, or different types of nuts.
Variations:
- Spicy Brie: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cranberry pecan topping for a little kick.
- Fig & Prosciutto Brie: Swap the cranberry sauce for fig jam and add some crumbled prosciutto to the topping for a savory twist.
- Apple & Brie: Use diced apples instead of cranberries and add a sprinkle of cinnamon for a fall-inspired flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300 (depending on serving size and ingredients used)
- Fat: High
- Protein: Low
- Carbohydrates: Moderate
This baked brie recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes, healthy meals, and quick dinner ideas. It's perfect for homemade cooking and guarantees delicious dishes every time. It's one of the best recipes for effortless entertaining! Enjoy!