Creamy Cranberry Pecan Baked Brie
This easy, festive appetizer features creamy brie blended with cream cheese, topped with tangy cranberry sauce, toasted pecans, and a drizzle of honey. It’s a crowd-pleasing, quick-to-make dish perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in.
- Prep Time: 7 minutes
- Cook Time: 13 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 (8 oz) wheel brie cheese
- 2 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup whole berry cranberry sauce (homemade or canned)
- 1/3 cup pecans, roughly chopped and toasted
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1/2 tsp orange zest (optional)
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (optional)
- Pinch of sea salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a small baking dish, oven-safe skillet, or line with parchment.
- Toast pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring often, until fragrant and lightly browned. Set aside to cool.
- In a medium bowl, combine brie and cream cheese (both at room temperature). Mash together with a fork or spatula until smooth and creamy. Microwave for 10 seconds if needed to soften.
- Spoon the creamy cheese mixture into the prepared dish and smooth into an even layer about 1 inch thick. Create a slight well in the center.
- Dollop cranberry sauce evenly over the cheese. Use a fork to gently swirl some of the cranberry sauce into the cheese for a marbled effect.
- Sprinkle toasted pecans over the cranberry layer. Drizzle honey across the top. Add orange zest and thyme leaves if using. Finish with a pinch of sea salt.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and edges are lightly golden. Do not overbake.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Serve warm with crackers, toasted baguette, or apple slices.
Notes
Let cheeses come to room temperature for easier blending. Toasting pecans enhances flavor and crunch. Do not overbake or cheese will become runny. For nut-free, use pumpkin or sunflower seeds. Can be made ahead and baked just before serving. Serve with gluten-free crackers or apple slices for a gluten-free option.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 8
- Sodium: 220
- Fat: 13
- Saturated Fat: 6
- Carbohydrates: 12
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 6
Keywords: baked brie, cranberry pecan brie, holiday appetizer, easy appetizer, gluten-free appetizer, festive cheese dip, party food, Thanksgiving, Christmas