Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This baked Brie is a perfect blend of rich, creamy cheese and bright, fruity flavor. The warm, gooey Brie contrasts beautifully with the tangy cranberries and sweet honey, creating a sophisticated bite in every serving. It comes together in just minutes, looks beautiful on any table, and tastes like something you’d get at a gourmet restaurant.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
wheel of Brie cheese
cranberry sauce (homemade or canned, whole berry preferred)
honey
chopped walnuts or pecans (optional, for crunch)
fresh rosemary or thyme (optional, for garnish)
puff pastry (optional, if wrapping the Brie)
egg (for egg wash, if using puff pastry)
crackers, baguette slices, or apple slices (for serving)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- If using puff pastry, roll it out slightly on a floured surface. Place the Brie wheel in the center.
- Spoon cranberry sauce on top of the Brie, then drizzle generously with honey.
- Sprinkle with chopped nuts if using.
- Fold the puff pastry over the Brie, trimming excess if needed. Seal the edges and brush with beaten egg.
- Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.
- If not using puff pastry, simply place the Brie on a baking dish, top with cranberry sauce and honey, and bake uncovered for 12–15 minutes, until warm and gooey.
- Garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Serve immediately with crackers, bread, or fruit.
Servings and timing
Serves 6–8 as an appetizer
Prep time: 5–10 minutes
Cook time: 15–25 minutes
Total time: 20–35 minutes
Variations
- No puff pastry: Skip the pastry for a lower-carb version; bake Brie with toppings directly.
- Add citrus: Mix orange zest into the cranberry sauce for a fresh flavor twist.
- Nut-free: Omit the nuts for allergies or a smoother texture.
- Use fig jam or apricot preserves: Substitute cranberry sauce with your favorite fruit preserve.
- Spicy-sweet: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or drizzle with hot honey for a kick.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10–15 minutes, or microwave in 20-second intervals until warm and melty. Keep in mind that puff pastry will lose some crispness when reheated.
FAQs
Do I need to remove the rind from the Brie?
No, the rind is edible and helps the cheese keep its shape during baking. You can score the top if you prefer easier dipping.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the Brie with cranberry and honey up to a day ahead. If using puff pastry, wait to add the egg wash until just before baking.
What type of cranberry sauce works best?
Whole berry cranberry sauce adds the best texture, but jellied can work in a pinch. Homemade sauce is a great option if you have time.
Can I freeze baked Brie?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but if needed, you can freeze it after baking. Reheat in the oven, though the texture may change slightly.
Is puff pastry required?
Not at all! The Brie can be baked without it for a simpler and lighter appetizer.
What can I use instead of honey?
Maple syrup or agave nectar make great alternatives with a slightly different flavor profile.
How do I prevent the puff pastry from getting soggy?
Use a thicker layer of cranberry sauce and avoid overloading with liquid toppings. Chill the assembled Brie for 15 minutes before baking for best results.
What wine pairs well with Cranberry Honey Baked Brie?
Serve it with a glass of Pinot Noir, sparkling wine, or a light Chardonnay for a balanced pairing.
Can I use different cheese?
Brie is best for this style of appetizer, but Camembert is a good substitute with a similar texture and flavor.
What should I serve alongside it?
Offer a mix of crackers, toasted baguette slices, apple wedges, or even pear slices to complement the cheese and cranberries.
Conclusion
Cranberry Honey Baked Brie is a quick yet elegant appetizer that brings together simple ingredients for an unforgettable flavor experience. Whether wrapped in puff pastry or served simply baked, it’s a festive, crowd-pleasing favorite that belongs on every holiday or entertaining table. With its perfect balance of sweet, savory, and creamy, this dish will have everyone coming back for more.
PrintCranberry Honey Baked Brie
Cranberry Honey Baked Brie is a warm, creamy appetizer topped with sweet-tart cranberry sauce, golden honey, and optionally wrapped in puff pastry for a stunning presentation. It’s quick to make, crowd-pleasing, and perfect for holidays or entertaining.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15–25 minutes
- Total Time: 20–35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6–8
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 wheel of Brie cheese (8 oz)
- 1/3 cup cranberry sauce (whole berry preferred)
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1 sheet puff pastry (optional)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash, optional)
- Fresh rosemary or thyme (optional, for garnish)
- Crackers, baguette slices, or apple slices (for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- If using puff pastry, roll it slightly on a floured surface. Place Brie in the center of the pastry.
- Top the Brie with cranberry sauce, drizzle with honey, and sprinkle with nuts if using.
- Fold puff pastry over Brie, sealing edges. Trim excess and brush with egg wash.
- Transfer to baking sheet and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden and puffed.
- If not using puff pastry, place Brie on a baking dish, top with cranberry sauce and honey, and bake uncovered for 12–15 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve warm with crackers, bread, or fruit.
Notes
- No need to remove the Brie rind—it’s edible and helps hold the shape.
- For best results with puff pastry, chill the assembled Brie for 15 minutes before baking.
- Use homemade or canned whole berry cranberry sauce for best texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 wheel with pastry and toppings
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 240mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 35mg