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A warm wheel of baked brie with jam, glistening with apricot preserves, sliced almonds, and fresh herbs, surrounded by toasted baguette slices.
Layla

Festive Cranberry & Pecan Baked Brie

A warm, gooey wheel of brie topped with festive cranberry jam, toasted pecans, and a hint of rosemary, baked to perfection. This easy baked brie with jam is the ultimate Christmas appetizer that's ready in under 30 minutes.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Appetizer, Holiday Appetizer
Cuisine: American, French
Calories: 152

Ingredients
  

For the Baked Brie
  • 1 wheel brie cheese (8 oz) cold, from the refrigerator
  • 1/3 cup cranberry jam or preserves
  • 1/4 cup pecans roughly chopped and toasted
  • 1 tbsp honey or pure maple syrup
  • 1 sprig fresh rosemary
  • 1/8 tsp flaky sea salt for garnish
For Serving (Optional)
  • Crackers, apple slices, or toasted baguette slices

Equipment

  • Baking Sheet
  • Small oven-safe skillet or baking dish
  • Parchment Paper

Method
 

Prepare and Assemble
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the wheel of brie in a small, oven-safe skillet (like a 6-inch cast iron) or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  2. Using a sharp knife, score the top of the brie rind in a criss-cross or diamond pattern, about 1/4-inch deep. This helps the heat penetrate and allows the toppings to melt into the cheese.
  3. Spoon the cranberry jam evenly over the top of the scored brie, letting it settle into the cuts.
  4. Sprinkle the toasted pecans over the jam, then drizzle with the honey or maple syrup. Place the fresh rosemary sprig on top.
Bake and Serve
  1. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is soft and warm throughout, and beginning to ooze from the sides. Be careful not to overbake.
  2. Carefully remove the brie from the oven. Let it rest for 5 minutes; this allows the cheese to set slightly so it's perfectly gooey but not overly runny.
  3. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt and serve immediately with your favorite crackers, apple slices, or toasted baguette for dipping.

Notes

Use a brie with the rind intact; it's the edible container that holds the molten cheese.
Don't overbake! You want it gooey, not a complete puddle. Check it at the 12-minute mark.
Swap the jam: Fig, apricot, or raspberry jam are also delicious alternatives.
To toast pecans: Heat them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring often, until fragrant.
Storage: Baked brie is best served fresh and warm. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheat gently.