This Baked Brie with Cranberry-Pecan-Bacon Crumble is a warm, savory-sweet appetizer that turns an ordinary cheese round into a stunning centerpiece. The creamy, molten brie pairs beautifully with the salty crunch of bacon, the sweetness of dried cranberries, and the toasty flavor of pecans. It’s elegant enough for holidays yet easy enough for any gathering—ready to impress with every gooey bite.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients:
1 (8-ounce) wheel of Brie cheese
3 slices of bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled
¼ cup chopped pecans, lightly toasted
¼ cup dried cranberries
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon maple syrup
1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped (or ½ teaspoon dried)
1 sheet puff pastry (optional, if you prefer a wrapped Brie)
Crackers, apple slices, or baguette, for serving
Instructions:
-
Preheat the Oven:
Set the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a small baking sheet with parchment paper. -
Prepare the Brie:
If you like a soft, melty texture with a slightly crisp crust, place the brie directly on the baking sheet. If you prefer it enclosed in pastry, wrap it in puff pastry and pinch the edges to seal. -
Make the Crumble Topping:
In a small bowl, combine crumbled bacon, toasted pecans, cranberries, brown sugar, maple syrup, and rosemary. Mix until evenly coated and sticky. -
Top the Brie:
Spoon the cranberry-pecan-bacon mixture evenly over the top of the brie. Press gently so it sticks. -
Bake the Brie:
Place in the oven and bake for 10–12 minutes if unwrapped, or about 18–20 minutes if wrapped in puff pastry, until the cheese is melted and the topping is caramelized and fragrant. -
Cool Slightly and Serve:
Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving—this helps the cheese thicken slightly so it doesn’t run out too quickly. Transfer to a serving plate and serve warm with crackers, sliced apples, or baguette rounds.
Nutrition (per serving):
Calories: 260
Protein: 10g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fat: 20g
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 340mg
Tips:
• For extra flavor, drizzle a bit of honey or maple syrup over the baked brie before serving.
• You can substitute walnuts or almonds for pecans if you prefer.
• If using puff pastry, brush the top with a beaten egg for a golden finish.
• The crumble mixture can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Serve immediately while warm and gooey—baked brie is best enjoyed fresh from the oven.
This Baked Brie with Cranberry-Pecan-Bacon Crumble is the perfect mix of creamy, salty, and sweet—a simple dish that tastes luxurious and always disappears fast at any party.
