Baked Brie with Cranberry Sauce Recipe

If you’re searching for a show-stopping holiday appetizer that’s as easy as it is delicious, you’ve just hit the jackpot. This Baked Brie with Cranberry Sauce Recipe is seriously one of my all-time favorites because it combines creamy, melty cheese with a bright, tangy cranberry topping — and it’s ready in under 10 minutes. Trust me, once you try this, your family and guests will be begging for it every season!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient plays a small but vital role here. The Brie needs to be soft and mild, the cranberry sauce should bring just the right zing, and the pistachios add a perfect crunch and pop of color.

• Brie Cheese: Look for a whole 8-ounce wheel—room temperature Brie melts beautifully.
• Cranberry Sauce: Use your favorite jarred sauce or homemade cranberry sauce; fresh-tasting and not overly sweet works best.
• Pistachios: Roughly chopped unsalted pistachios add texture and a subtle nutty flavor.
• Optional Garnish: Fresh herb sprigs like rosemary or thyme, and a bit of orange zest brighten things up visually and flavor-wise.

Variations

I love making this Baked Brie with Cranberry Sauce Recipe my own depending on the occasion, and I encourage you to do the same — tweaking toppings or adding new twists is part of the fun!

• Nut Swap: I’ve used chopped pecans or walnuts when pistachios weren’t on hand; each brings a unique flavor and crunch.
• Fruit Twist: Mixing in a bit of fig jam or apricot preserves with the cranberry sauce adds a lovely layer of complexity.
• Herbal Flair: Fresh sage or thyme sprigs make for warm, aromatic notes that complement Brie beautifully.
• Spicy Kick: Adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes on top before baking gives it a surprising and delightful warmth.

How to Make Baked Brie with Cranberry Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Brie and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). I like to place the Brie on a piece of parchment paper on a baking sheet, but if you have a special Brie baker, even better! Let your Brie sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before assembling—this helps it melt evenly and stay creamy.

Step 2: Top and Bake with Cranberry Sauce

Spoon a generous ½ cup of cranberry sauce all over the top of the Brie. Don’t be shy—I love the tartness it brings. Pop it into the oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes until the cheese turns soft and melty. You’ll notice the edges get a little gooey, and that’s exactly what you want. Just keep an eye to avoid it running everywhere!

Step 3: Sprinkle with Pistachios and Garnish

Take your hot Brie out of the oven and immediately sprinkle on the roughly chopped pistachios—they add a crunch and beautiful contrast to the dish. If you like, add fresh herb sprigs like rosemary and a little orange zest to bring brightness and some festive flair. Then, serve warm for the ultimate ooey-gooey treat!

How to Serve Baked Brie with Cranberry Sauce Recipe

Garnishes

I’m a big fan of adding fresh rosemary sprigs and a sprinkle of orange zest right before serving. Not only do they look festive, but they add a fresh aroma and subtle citrus notes that elevate the whole dish. Plus, a few chopped pistachios scattered on top make it visually enticing and add a satisfying crunch.

Side Dishes

This baked Brie pairs perfectly with crisp crackers, crusty baguette slices, or even apple and pear slices for a refreshing contrast. For a heartier spread, I like to serve it alongside roasted nuts and a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette.

Creative Ways to Present

For holiday parties, I like to place the baked Brie on a wooden cheese board surrounded by sprigs of fresh herbs, extra pistachios in a small bowl, and a few jars of assorted jams and honey. For a cozy dinner at home, serve it in a small, rustic cast-iron skillet straight from the oven—it keeps the cheese melty and your guests impressed!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (though that rarely happens in my house), cover the baked Brie tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Freezing

I generally don’t freeze baked Brie with cranberry sauce because the texture changes and the cranberry sauce might become watery. However, you can freeze fresh Brie and cranberry sauce separately for prep ahead of time and bake just before serving.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm it in a preheated 325°F oven for 5-7 minutes. Avoid using the microwave as it can make the cheese rubbery. Reheat just until warm and melty again for the best results.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Honestly, this Baked Brie with Cranberry Sauce Recipe has become my go-to festive appetizer because it’s just so effortless yet elegant. Whether you’re new to baking Brie or a seasoned cheese lover, I promise you’ll enjoy how simple it is to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Do yourself a favor and try it at your next holiday gathering — your friends will thank you, and you’ll find yourself making it again and again!

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