Baked Brie with Cranberries and Pecans (Elegant & Easy Holiday Appetizer)

This Baked Brie with Cranberries and Pecans is a warm, melty appetizer topped with tart cranberry sauce, toasted pecans, and honey — perfect for holidays or parties!

Baked Brie with Cranberries and Pecans

Description

Warm, gooey Brie cheese baked under a golden puff pastry and topped with tart cranberry sauce, toasted pecans, and a drizzle of honey. This elegant yet easy appetizer is the star of any holiday table — festive, cozy, and absolutely irresistible.

Ingredients

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed

• 1 round (8 oz) Brie cheese (with rind on)

• ½ cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)

• ¼ cup chopped pecans, toasted

• 1 tablespoon honey (plus more for drizzling)

• 1 egg (for egg wash)

• 1 tablespoon water

• Fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs (optional, for garnish)

• Crackers or sliced baguette (for serving)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Prepare the puff pastry. Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to smooth out creases. Place the Brie in the center.

3. Add the topping. Spoon the cranberry sauce on top of the Brie, then sprinkle with toasted pecans. Drizzle with a touch of honey for extra sweetness.

4. Wrap it up. Bring the edges of the puff pastry up over the Brie, folding and tucking to seal it completely. Trim any extra pastry if needed.

5. Egg wash: Beat the egg with 1 tablespoon of water. Brush the pastry all over for a golden finish.

6. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and deep golden brown.

7. Cool slightly, let rest for about 10 minutes before serving (the cheese inside will be very hot!).

8. Serve Drizzle with a bit more honey and garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Serve warm with crackers or baguette slices.

Tips & Variations

• Add a pinch of cinnamon or orange zest to the cranberry sauce for a festive twist.

• Swap pecans for walnuts or candied almonds.

• For a rustic version, skip the puff pastry and simply bake the topped Brie in a small ovenproof dish.

Serving idea

Serve on a wooden board surrounded by sliced apples, grapes, rosemary sprigs, and a mix of crackers for a beautiful holiday presentation.