Name: Brie with Sweet & Tart Cranberries
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-489379H14M40S
Total time: PT-489379H14M40S
Cuisine: American / Holiday
Ingredients: 1 wheel of brie; 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries; 2–3 tablespoons brown sugar or maple syrup; 2 tablespoons orange juice or 1 teaspoon orange zest; Optional: ¼ teaspoon cinnamon or allspice; Optional: 2 tablespoons chopped pecans or walnuts; Optional: 1 sheet puff pastry or crescent dough, thawed; Crackers, baguette slices, or apple slices for serving

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Brie with Sweet & Tart Cranberries is a warm, melty appetizer that pairs creamy, rich cheese with vibrant cranberry topping. I love serving it during the holidays or whenever I want something cozy and elegant on the table. It’s simple, impressive, and always gets devoured quickly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s the perfect mix of savory and sweet. The gooey brie contrasts beautifully with the bright, tangy cranberries, and it looks gorgeous right out of the oven. It takes almost no time to prepare, but it feels like something I’d order at a fancy bistro. It’s also incredibly versatile—great with crackers, bread, or even fruit slices. Brie with Sweet & Tart Cranberries

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Brie wheel
Fresh or frozen cranberries
Brown sugar or maple syrup
Orange juice or zest
Cinnamon or allspice (optional)
Chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts), optional
Puff pastry or crescent dough (optional, if wrapping)
Crackers or baguette slices for serving

Directions

I preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a small saucepan, I combine cranberries, sweetener (like brown sugar or maple syrup), orange juice or zest, and spices if using. I simmer until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens, about 10–12 minutes. I let it cool slightly.
I place the brie wheel on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in a small baking dish.
I spoon the cranberry mixture over the top.
If I’m using puff pastry, I wrap the brie with it and seal the edges, brushing with an egg wash before baking.
I bake for 12–15 minutes (or 20–25 minutes if wrapped in pastry), until the cheese is soft and melty.
I serve immediately with crackers, bread, or fruit slices.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 6–8 as an appetizer. It takes 10 minutes to prep and 12–25 minutes to bake, depending on whether it’s wrapped in pastry.

Variations

I sometimes swap the cranberry topping for fig jam, apricot preserves, or a mix of berries. For a nuttier flavor, I stir in toasted pecans or walnuts into the cranberry mix. When I want a savory version, I skip the fruit and top the brie with caramelized onions and herbs.

Storage/Reheating

Leftover brie can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. I reheat it gently in the oven at 300°F until warm and gooey again. I don’t recommend microwaving—it can cause the cheese to separate. Brie with Sweet & Tart Cranberries

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, I prepare the cranberry topping in advance and store it in the fridge. Just assemble and bake when ready to serve.

Do I need to remove the rind from the brie?

Nope. The rind is edible and helps the cheese keep its shape. I leave it on every time.

What if I don’t have fresh cranberries?

Frozen cranberries work perfectly. I use them straight from the freezer—no need to thaw.

Can I use a different cheese?

Yes, I’ve tried this with camembert and even goat cheese for a different flavor, though brie is the creamiest choice.

What’s best to serve it with?

I usually serve it with crackers, crostini, or apple slices. Something sturdy to scoop up that melty goodness.

Conclusion

Brie with Sweet & Tart Cranberries is one of my favorite ways to elevate a simple cheese into something festive and unforgettable. I love how quick it is to make and how it never fails to impress. Whether I’m hosting or bringing it to a gathering, it’s always a guaranteed hit.