Cranberry Sauce Topped Baked Brie Recipe
Imagine serving a golden wheel of baked brie, lavishly topped with a tangy cranberry sauce that melts in your mouth alongside creamy cheese. This Cranberry Sauce Topped Baked Brie is the ultimate holiday appetizer, a show-stopping centerpiece that is as flavorful as it is beautiful. Easy to prepare yet impressive, this recipe will elevate any gathering from cozy family dinners to festive holiday parties.
In our family, holiday gatherings were never complete without baked brie. My grandmother used to prepare it with a simple topping of jam, but over the years, we’ve experimented with various toppings. This cranberry sauce version has become a family favorite. I recall the first time we made it for Thanksgiving; the warm, rich aroma filled the kitchen, and it quickly disappeared within minutes of being served, signaling its success.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a perfect blend of savory and sweet, which complements the creamy texture of the brie. It’s a breeze to prepare, requiring just a few steps to create a dish that looks sophisticated. The rich flavors speak for themselves, and the ingredients are easily available, making it a practical choice for any host. Additionally, it opens up endless possibilities for customization, ensuring it never gets stale in your recipe repertoire.
Ingredients Notes
The star ingredient is, of course, the brie cheese, which should ideally be of high quality to ensure the best flavor. If you prefer, you can use a triple cream brie for an even more luxurious texture. As for the cranberry sauce, homemade is best, but store-bought works just as well in a pinch. Feel free to add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a festive twist. A sprinkle of chopped walnuts or rosemary can also enhance the presentation.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the ideal temperature to ensure your brie is perfectly gooey without the outer layer becoming too hard.
Step 2
Place the brie on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This prevents the cheese from sticking and makes for easy clean-up.
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Step 3
Spoon the cranberry sauce generously over the top of the brie. Let it cascade over the sides to give it a luxurious appearance.
Step 4
Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, until the cheese is soft when poked gently with a skewer. Keep a close watch to avoid overcooking.
Step 5
Remove from oven and let it stand for a couple of minutes to firm up slightly. Transfer to a serving platter and garnish with herbs or nuts if desired. Serve warm with crackers or slices of crusty bread.
Storage Options
To store any leftovers, wrap the baked brie tightly in aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to three days. To reheat, place it in a preheated 300°F (150°C) oven for about 10 minutes until warm. If you plan to freeze it, wrap in both plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn, and consume within one month. Always thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Variations & Substitutions
For a nutty twist, sprinkle toasted pecans over the cranberry topping before baking. If you’re accommodating a nut allergy, pumpkin seeds provide a similar crunch without the allergens. For a more aromatic version, incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into the cranberry sauce. A drizzle of honey or maple syrup before serving can also add a delightful sweetness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cheese?
While brie is traditional and provides a creamy texture, you can experiment with camembert or a soft goat cheese. Just ensure the cheese you choose melts well and suits your taste preferences.
What can I serve with baked brie?
Baked brie pairs beautifully with a variety of items. Serve it alongside slices of baguette, a selection of crackers, or even apple slices. The different textures and flavors complement the creamy cheese and sweet-tart cranberry sauce perfectly.
How can I make this a more substantial dish?
To make this recipe heartier, consider wrapping the brie with puff pastry. Incorporating small cooked bacon bits into the cranberry sauce also adds a savory depth, making it more filling. Just be sure to adjust the baking time to account for the additional pastry layer.
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Cranberry Sauce Topped Baked Brie Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 wheel brie cheese about 8 ounces
- 1 cup cranberry sauce homemade or store-bought
- 1 tablespoon chopped pecans optional
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the brie on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Spread the cranberry sauce over the top of the brie.
- Sprinkle with chopped pecans, if using.
- Bake for 10-15 minutes, until the brie is warm and softened.
Notes
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