This Baked Brie with Cranberries is creamy, warm, and topped with sweet-tart cranberries. It’s perfect for sharing at parties or enjoying on a cozy night in!
Trust me, when you cut into that gooey cheese, it’s pure magic. I always serve it with crackers for a fun snack—because we all deserve a little cheese joy! 🧀✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Brie Cheese: This soft cheese is key for that creamy texture. If you can’t find Brie, Camembert is a great substitute. It’s similar in texture and flavor, making it an excellent option for baking.
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries add a lovely tartness. If they aren’t in season, consider using dried cranberries instead. Just soak them in warm water for a few minutes to plump them up before adding them to the mix.
Honey or Maple Syrup: Both sweeteners work well, but I prefer honey for its floral notes. If you need a vegan option, maple syrup is your best bet for a natural sweetness.
Fresh Rosemary: The herb adds a nice earthy flavor, but you could swap it for thyme or omit it altogether if you’re not a fan of herbs!
How Do You Bake Brie Without Making a Mess?
Baking Brie can be tricky, but it’s simple if you follow these steps to keep it neat. Make sure to monitor the cheese so it doesn’t overcook, or it’ll run all over. Here’s how to bake it properly:
- Preheat the oven before you start prepping. This ensures even cooking.
- Place the Brie on parchment paper or an oven-safe dish to catch any leaking cheese.
- Don’t bake it for too long! Keep an eye on the cheese, and remove it as soon as it’s soft and slightly bubbly.
This way, you’ll have a beautifully baked Brie that’s perfect for dipping without a mess!
Baked Brie with Cranberries Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 wheel (8 oz) of Brie cheese
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- Crackers or sliced baguette, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 30 minutes in total: 10 minutes for prep work and about 20 minutes for cooking. It’s quick and easy, making it perfect for a last-minute gathering or a cozy night in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your Brie bakes evenly.
2. Prepare the Brie
Take your Brie cheese wheel and place it on a baking sheet or an oven-safe plate. It’s best to use parchment paper underneath for easy cleanup and to avoid sticking.
3. Cook the Cranberry Mixture
In a small saucepan, mix together the fresh cranberries, honey (or maple syrup), brown sugar, water, and finely chopped rosemary. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Watch as the cranberries pop and the mixture thickens, which should take about 8-10 minutes. After that, remove it from heat and set aside.
4. Bake the Brie
Now, place the Brie in your preheated oven and bake for about 10-15 minutes. You’re looking for it to be soft and starting to ooze but not entirely melted. Keep an eye on it!
5. Assemble and Serve
Once the Brie is ready, take it out of the oven and, if needed, transfer it to a serving plate. Spoon the warm cranberry topping generously over the Brie.
6. Enjoy!
Serve the Baked Brie immediately with your favorite crackers or slices of baguette for dipping. Enjoy this creamy, sweet, and tangy delight—perfect for sharing!
Happy eating! 🧀🍇
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen cranberries, there’s no need to thaw them first. Just increase the cooking time a little until they pop and soften. You may also want to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time for the cranberry mixture to ensure it’s thick and syrupy.
How Do I Store Leftover Baked Brie?
If you have any leftovers, allow the Brie to cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through.
What Can I Use Instead of Rosemary?
If you don’t have rosemary on hand or prefer a different flavor, fresh thyme or even chopped pecans can be excellent alternatives! They add a nice earthy touch to the sweetness of the cranberries.
Is There a Gluten-Free Option for Serving?
Yes! If you need a gluten-free option, serve the Baked Brie with gluten-free crackers or sliced vegetables like cucumbers and bell peppers. They’re crunchy and pair beautifully with the creamy cheese!
