Name: Baked Brie with Cranberry Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 1 wheel of Brie cheese; 1 cup cranberry sauce; 1 sheet of puff pastry; 1 egg (for egg wash); Optional: chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts); Optional: fresh herbs (like thyme or rosemary)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Baked Brie with Cranberry Sauce is a delicious and elegant appetizer that’s perfect for gatherings. With its creamy, melty cheese enveloped in buttery pastry and topped with sweet and tart cranberry sauce, this dish is bound to impress your guests. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or a cozy get-together, Baked Brie with Cranberry Sauce is a crowd-pleaser that combines simplicity with sophistication.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 8
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 210
Protein: 6 grams
Carbohydrates: 20 grams
Fat: 12 grams
Fiber: 1 gram
Sugar: 4 grams
Sodium: 220 mg

Why Make This Baked Brie with Cranberry Sauce

This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also delivers a delightful flavor combination. The rich, creamy Brie pairs beautifully with the sweet and tangy cranberry sauce, creating a harmony of flavors that is both comforting and festive. Perfect for any occasion, this baked delight can elevate your appetizer spread and bring warmth to your table during the cooler months.

How to Make Baked Brie with Cranberry Sauce

Creating this scrumptious Baked Brie is straightforward. With just a few key ingredients and minimal prep work, you can have a stunning dish hot out of the oven in less than an hour. Let’s dive into the process!

Ingredients:

1 wheel of Brie cheese
1 cup cranberry sauce
1 sheet of puff pastry
1 egg (for egg wash)
Optional: chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts), fresh herbs (like thyme or rosemary)

Directions:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). This step ensures your pastry bakes evenly and achieves a golden-brown color.

Step 2: Roll Out the Puff Pastry

Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Make sure it’s large enough to wrap around the wheel of Brie completely.

Step 3: Assemble the Brie

Place the wheel of Brie in the center of the pastry. This will be the star of your dish, so make sure it is well-centered!

Step 4: Add the Toppings

Spoon cranberry sauce over the top of the Brie. If desired, sprinkle chopped nuts and herbs on top of the cranberry sauce for added texture and flavor.

Step 5: Enclose the Brie

Carefully fold the pastry over the Brie, sealing it well to ensure the cheese doesn’t ooze out during baking.

Step 6: Egg Wash

Brush the pastry with the beaten egg. This gives your Baked Brie a beautiful, glossy finish.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed up.

Step 8: Let Cool

Let the Baked Brie cool slightly before serving. This will help the cheese firm up just a bit, making it easier to slice. Serve warm with crackers or slices of baguette.

How to Serve Baked Brie with Cranberry Sauce

Serve your Baked Brie warm, sliced into wedges or simply scoop it out with crackers or bread. Pair it with a glass of wine or sparkling cider for a delightful experience. This dish also makes an excellent centerpiece for a charcuterie board.

How to Store Baked Brie with Cranberry Sauce

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.

Expert Tips for Perfect Baked Brie with Cranberry Sauce

Don’t skip the egg wash! It gives the pastry its golden color and flaky texture.
Feel free to experiment with toppings. Different jams like fig or apricot work well with Brie.
Make it ahead of time. You can assemble the Baked Brie a few hours before baking; just cover it and refrigerate until you’re ready to pop it in the oven.

Delicious Variations

Spicy Twist: Add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to the cranberry sauce for a spicy kick.
Herbed Delight: Mix fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into the cranberry sauce for an aromatic touch.
Nutty Addition: Swap out the nuts for seeds such as sunflower seeds if you have nut allergies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cheese? Yes! Camembert works nicely as a substitute, or for a strong flavor, try using a blue cheese.
What can I serve with Baked Brie? Serve with assorted crackers, sliced baguette, or apple slices. Fresh vegetables like carrots and celery also make great dippers.
Can I freeze Baked Brie? Freezing is not recommended, as it may affect the texture of the cheese and pastry.
How will I know when it’s done baking? The pastry should be golden brown and puffed. If you insert a knife into the pastry, the cheese should be soft and gooey.
Can I make it vegetarian? Absolutely! All ingredients in this recipe are vegetarian-friendly.

Conclusion

Baked Brie with Cranberry Sauce is an easy yet fancy appetizer that will impress at any gathering. The combination of warm, melty cheese and sweet cranberry sauce is simply irresistible! So why wait? Gather your ingredients and treat yourself to this delightful dish. Your taste buds will thank you!