Print

Easy Baked Brie Recipe with Cranberry Pecan Topping for Holidays

easy baked brie - featured image

A simple and festive baked brie topped with a sweet-tart cranberry pecan mixture, perfect for holiday gatherings and quick entertaining.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8-ounce wheel (225g) of good-quality brie cheese
  • 1 cup (100g) fresh cranberries, washed and picked through
  • 1/2 cup (60g) chopped pecans, toasted lightly
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon (12g) brown sugar
  • Zest of half a lemon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
  • Pinch of salt
  • Crackers or sliced baguette for serving

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and position a rack in the middle.
  2. Toast the chopped pecans on a baking sheet for 5–7 minutes, stirring halfway, until fragrant and lightly golden. Remove and let cool.
  3. In a small bowl, combine fresh cranberries, toasted pecans, maple syrup, brown sugar, lemon zest, cinnamon (if using), and a pinch of salt. Mix gently until evenly coated.
  4. Place the brie wheel in an oven-safe baking dish or small cast iron skillet. Optionally, score the rind lightly with a knife.
  5. Spoon the cranberry pecan mixture evenly over the top of the brie without pressing down.
  6. Bake for 15–20 minutes until the cheese is soft and gooey and the topping bubbles with golden edges. Tent with foil if topping browns too quickly.
  7. Remove from oven carefully and let sit for 3–5 minutes to settle.
  8. Serve warm with sturdy crackers or sliced baguette.

Notes

Use room temperature brie for even melting. Toast nuts separately to bring out oils and crunch. Watch oven closely to avoid burning. Assemble topping ahead and refrigerate if desired, then bake just before serving. For dairy-free, use cashew-based cheese alternative but melting will differ. Serve with gluten-free crackers for gluten-free option.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked brie, cranberry pecan topping, holiday appetizer, easy baked brie, festive snack, quick appetizer, holiday entertaining