Introduction

Cranberry Walnut Baked Brie is a delightful dish that perfectly combines the creamy richness of baked brie cheese with the tart and sweet flavors of cranberry sauce and the earthy crunch of walnuts. This appetizer is not only visually appealing but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it a fantastic option for holiday gatherings, parties, or family get-togethers.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– 1 round Brie cheese (about 8 ounces)
– 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
– Fresh baguette or crackers for serving

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 8 servings

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Preparation

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

Prepare the Brie

Place the wheel of Brie on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in a small baking dish.

Top the Brie

In a small saucepan, combine fresh or frozen cranberries, sugar, and orange juice. Cook over medium heat until the cranberries start to burst and the mixture thickens.

Add Walnuts

Stir in chopped walnuts into the cranberry mixture and remove from heat.

Assemble

Spoon the cranberry walnut mixture over the top of the Brie.

Bake

Bake the Brie in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes or until the cheese is soft and gooey.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Pair with crackers, bread, or fruit.

Notes

Variations

You can substitute other nuts like pecans or almonds if desired.

Serving Suggestions

Consider adding honey or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra flavor.

Storage

Leftover baked Brie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven before serving again.

Cheese Choice

Use a double cream Brie for a creamier texture.

Cook techniques

Preparing the Brie

To enhance the flavor and texture of the Brie, it’s important to let it come to room temperature before baking. This allows the cheese to soften and become gooey during the cooking process.

Mixing the Topping

Combine chopped walnuts and fresh cranberries with brown sugar and spices to create a flavorful topping. This mixture provides a sweet and nutty contrast to the rich Brie.

Baking the Cheese

Bake the Brie in a preheated oven until it becomes soft and bubbly. This usually takes around 10-15 minutes, depending on the size of the cheese.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the baked Brie warm, accompanied by crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh fruit for dipping and spreading. This enhances the overall tasting experience.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, other soft cheeses such as Camembert can be used as a substitute for Brie in this recipe.

How can I store leftovers?

Leftover baked Brie can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven before serving.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the topping in advance and assemble it on the Brie just before baking.

What can I substitute for walnuts?

Pecans or sliced almonds are great alternatives if you need to replace walnuts in the topping mixture.

Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?

To make the dish gluten-free, ensure that the crackers or bread served with the Brie are certified gluten-free.

Conclusion

Baked brie with cranberry and walnut is a delightful combination that brings together creamy cheese, tart fruit, and crunchy nuts, making it a perfect appetizer for any gathering. Its warm, gooey texture complemented by the sweet-tart cranberry sauce creates a rich taste experience that your guests will love. This recipe is not only straightforward but also allows for customization to suit your palate, ensuring a memorable dish that stands out.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Cranberry Orange Baked Brie

Elevate your baked brie by adding a hint of citrus with orange zest and juice mixed into the cranberry sauce, giving it a refreshing twist.

Honey Almond Baked Brie

Swap out the cranberries for honey and sliced almonds for a sweet and nutty flavor profile that is sure to delight.

Pesto and Sun-Dried Tomato Baked Brie

Combine the richness of brie with savory pesto and aromatic sun-dried tomatoes for a deliciously Mediterranean take on the classic recipe.

Apple Cinnamon Baked Brie

Transform your baked brie into a fall favorite by topping it with sautéed apples and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a cozy dessert-like option.

Fig and Prosciutto Baked Brie

Pair your brie with sweet figs and salty prosciutto for an indulgent appetizer that balances sweet and savory flavors beautifully.