This baked brie topped with sweet cranberries is a yummy treat! The warm cheese melts perfectly and makes a cozy dip for crackers or bread—perfect for sharing (or not!).
Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it for every gathering. The gooey cheese and tangy cranberries make this dish a hit. Who can resist that cheesy goodness? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Brie cheese: This creamy cheese is the star of the dish! If you’re looking for a substitute, Camembert works great as it has a similar taste and texture. Just know that it’s a bit stronger in flavor.
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries add a wonderful tartness. If you can’t find them, you can use frozen cranberries. Just thaw and drain before using!
Sugar: Granulated sugar is used for sweetness, but if you prefer a healthier option, you can use honey or maple syrup instead. Just remember to adjust the quantity as they are sweeter.
Fresh thyme: This herb enhances the flavors beautifully. If you don’t have fresh thyme, dried thyme can work too—just use less, as dried herbs are more potent.
How Do I Score Brie the Right Way?
Scoring Brie is important for a smooth melt. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use a sharp knife, as a dull one can mash the cheese.
- Lightly score the surface in a crosshatch pattern. Make shallow cuts, about 1/4 inch deep, so you don’t cut all the way through.
- This technique creates more surface area for melting and helps the cheese ooze out beautifully when baked.
What’s the Best Way to Serve My Baked Brie?
Serving your baked Brie is all about presentation and ease. Here’s my go-to method:
- Use a stylish platter or wooden board for a nice touch.
- Add an assortment of crackers or a sliced baguette around the Brie for dipping. You can even include some nuts or olives for variety.
- Garnish with extra cranberries and thyme sprigs for a pop of color and freshness.
This way, everyone can easily scoop up the warm, gooey cheese and enjoy!
How to Make Baked Brie With Cranberries
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 wheel of Brie cheese (about 8 ounces)
- 1 cup fresh cranberries (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon grated fresh orange zest (optional)
- 1-2 sprigs fresh thyme (plus extra for garnish)
- Crackers or sliced baguette, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to bake. You’ll need a total of about 25 minutes from start to finish, making it easy to whip up for a get-together or cozy night in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, your Brie can melt nicely when it’s ready to bake!
2. Score the Brie:
Using a sharp knife, lightly score the top of the Brie in a crosshatch pattern. This helps the cheese soften and melt evenly when baked. Just make shallow cuts—don’t go all the way through!
3. Prepare the Dish:
Place the Brie on a baking dish or any oven-safe plate that can hold all the melted goodness!
4. Make the Cranberry Topping:
In a small saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, water, lemon juice, and optional orange zest. Heat over medium heat until it starts to boil gently, stirring occasionally.
5. Simmer:
Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 8-10 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cranberries pop and the sauce thickens a bit. Remove from heat and stir in the thyme sprigs.
6. Top the Brie:
Spoon the warm cranberry sauce right over the top of the Brie, letting all that fruity goodness settle in!
7. Bake It:
Place the Brie in the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is soft and melty inside and the outside is golden brown.
8. Garnish:
Carefully take it out of the oven (watch those oven mitts!), and garnish with extra cranberries and thyme sprigs for a beautiful touch.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your baked Brie immediately with a variety of crackers or slices of baguette for dipping. Get ready to dive into this ooey-gooey, tangy-sweet delight!
Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?
Absolutely! While Brie is traditional, you can substitute it with Camembert or even goat cheese for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that each cheese has its own unique melting properties!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), let the baked Brie cool to room temperature, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving again.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the cranberry topping in advance! Just make it, let it cool, and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the topping before spooning it over the Brie and baking.
What Else Can I Serve With Baked Brie?
In addition to crackers or baguette slices, consider adding some fresh fruit like apple or pear slices, nuts for crunch, or even a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness. It’s all about pairing flavors!
