When the chill of fall arrives and the leaves begin their dance to the ground, I find my kitchen transforming into a cozy haven. One of my favorite ways to embrace the season is by whipping up a Maple-Cranberry Baked Brie, an indulgent appetizer that never fails to impress. Picture this: warm, melty brie wrapped in flaky puff pastry, each bite bursting with the delightful sweetness of homemade cranberry jam and a drizzle of maple syrup. It’s a comforting treat that elevates any gathering, from casual get-togethers to festive holiday parties.
Stepping into the kitchen to create this dish feels like a warm hug, where the tartness of cranberries harmonizes beautifully with the richness of cheese. As the flakey pastry puffs up in the oven, I’m reminded that this indulgent treat is not only quick and easy to prepare, but also a showstopper sure to leave guests raving. So let’s dive in and bring a slice of seasonal magic to your table!
Why is Maple-Cranberry Baked Brie irresistible?
Delightful crunchy pastry encases creamy brie for an appealing treat! The tangy cranberry jam perfectly balances the richness of the cheese. Quick and easy to make, it’s the ideal appetizer for any gathering! This dish also sparks conversation, making it a crowd-pleaser that warms the heart and home. Elevate your holiday table while savoring seasonal flavors that celebrate autumn!
Maple-Cranberry Baked Brie Ingredients
For the Jam
• Frozen or Fresh Cranberries – Provide tartness for the jam; substitute with other berries like blueberries for a different flavor.
• Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness to the jam; brown sugar can be used for a deeper flavor.
• Pure Maple Syrup – Sweetens the dish and enhances the maple flavor; honey can be a substitute but will alter the taste slightly.
• Finely Grated Orange Zest – Brightens the jam’s flavor; lemon zest can be used as an alternative.
• Fresh Orange Juice – Adds acidity to balance the sweetness; any citrus juice can be substituted.
• Cornstarch – Thickens the jam; substitute with arrowroot powder for a gluten-free option.
• Kosher Salt – Enhances flavor; can use sea salt as a substitute.
• Ground Cinnamon – Adds warmth and spice; nutmeg could be an alternative.
For the Pastry
• All-purpose Flour – For dusting the work surface; gluten-free flour can be used as a substitute.
• Frozen Puff Pastry – Provides crispiness and buttery flavor; alternatively, use homemade pastry.
• Brie Cheese – Creamy filling for the pastry; Camembert can be a suitable substitute.
• Large Egg (lightly beaten) – Acts as an egg wash; milk or a non-dairy alternative could be used for a wash.
• Turbinado Sugar – Adds texture and sweetness to the crust; regular sugar can be used if unavailable.
Enjoy creating your Maple-Cranberry Baked Brie with these carefully selected ingredients!
How to Make Maple-Cranberry Baked Brie
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Prepare the Jam: In a saucepan, combine frozen or fresh cranberries, granulated sugar, pure maple syrup, finely grated orange zest, fresh orange juice, cornstarch, kosher salt, and ground cinnamon. Cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens and bubbles, about 10-15 minutes.
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Shape the Brie: Roll out the frozen puff pastry on a lightly floured surface until it’s about 1/8 inch thick. Place the brie cheese in the center, ensuring the sides remain open to showcase the delicious filling.
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Assemble: Spoon the warm cranberry jam generously over the brie. Fold the corners of the pastry up over the edges of the cheese, leaving some gaps for the beautiful filling to peek through.
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Bake: Brush the pastry generously with a beaten egg for a golden shine. Sprinkle turbinado sugar over the pastry, then place it in a preheated oven at 375°F and bake until golden brown and flaky, about 25-30 minutes.
Optional: Serve with sliced baguette or an array of crackers for the perfect pairing.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Maple-Cranberry Baked Brie?
Elevate your gathering with delightful pairings that perfectly complement this indulgent seasonal treat.
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Crusty Baguette: A rustic baguette provides a sturdy base for each bite, allowing you to savor the rich flavors of brie and tart cranberry jam. The chewy texture perfectly balances the creamy cheese.
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Assorted Crackers: Offering a variety of textures and flavors, these crunchy companions are perfect for dipping. Choose whole grain or herbed options for an added layer of taste.
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Sliced Apples: The crisp sweetness of fresh apple slices adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the baked brie. Their tart flavor beautifully enhances the cranberry jam.
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Mixed Nuts: A bowl of lightly salted nuts, like walnuts or pecans, adds a delightful crunch and earthy flavor. Their satisfying texture rounds out the experience, making it a delightful nibble between bites.
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Arugula Salad: A simple salad with peppery arugula, a splash of lemon, and olive oil introduces a bright note to each mouthful. This fresh component cuts through the richness and keeps the palate invigorated.
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Champagne or Sparkling Wine: A glass of bubbly elevates the occasion and pairs beautifully with the sweet and savory elements of the dish. Their light effervescence complements the creamy brie and adds a celebratory touch.
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Cranberry Moscow Mule: For a fun cocktail pairing, consider a refreshing cranberry Moscow mule with its zesty ginger beer and tart cranberry flavor. It harmonizes perfectly with the dish, enhancing the overall seasonal vibe.
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Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: For dessert, these sweet, juicy bites create a charming end to your meal. Their delightful fusion of flavors rounds off the experience beautifully, offering a sweet note to follow the savory.
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Warm Spiced Cider: Embrace fall with a warm spiced cider, whose fragrant spices blend beautifully with the dish’s maple and cranberry notes, creating a cozy atmosphere for your gathering.
Maple-Cranberry Baked Brie Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Maple-Cranberry Baked Brie and make it uniquely yours!
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Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the cranberry jam for an extra crunch that complements the creamy brie. A delightful texture twist that adds depth to your flavor experience.
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Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the jam, creating an aromatic lift that balances the sweetness beautifully. The savory notes will elevate this dish to new heights!
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Fig Jam Swap: Replace the cranberry jam with fig or pear jam for a different seasonal sensation. Both options provide a luscious sweetness that pairs perfectly with the brie, offering a unique twist on this classic treat.
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Citrus Burst: Try lemon or grapefruit zest instead of orange to brighten the flavor profile of the jam. This zesty change can add a delightful tang that refreshes each bite.
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Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes to the cranberry jam for a pop of heat! This fiery twist provides an exciting contrast to the rich, creamy brie that will intrigue your guests.
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Dried Fruits: Incorporate dried cherries or apricots into the jam for added chewiness and a burst of flavor. These fruits enhance the sweet-tart balance and create a visually stunning jam layer.
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Gourmet Cheese: Experiment with a blend of cheeses, such as adding some creamy goat cheese alongside the brie for a tangy twist that deepens the flavor profile. The combination creates a luxurious cheese experience that’s hard to resist.
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Chocolate Drizzle: For an unexpected sweet note, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the baked brie right before serving. This indulgent touch adds an elegant flair that will surprise everyone at your gathering!
Expert Tips for Maple-Cranberry Baked Brie
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Thaw the Pastry: Make sure your puff pastry is completely thawed and at room temperature before rolling out to ensure easy handling.
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Jam Consistency: Keep an eye on the cranberry jam while cooking; it should be thick enough to hold its shape but not too dense. Stir regularly to prevent burning.
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Exposed Filling: Remember to leave some gaps when folding the pastry over the brie. This allows the beautiful cranberry jam to peek through, creating a show-stopping presentation.
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Cool Before Serving: Let the baked brie rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This helps prevent burns and allows the cheese to firm up slightly for easier serving.
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Adjust Sweetness: Taste your cranberry jam as you make it! If you prefer a sweeter flavor, you can easily add more maple syrup to enhance the indulgence of this Maple-Cranberry Baked Brie.
Storage Tips for Maple-Cranberry Baked Brie
Fridge: Store leftover Maple-Cranberry Baked Brie in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Keep it in the original pastry to maintain some crispiness.
Freezer: You can freeze the baked brie before baking for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: To restore the flaky texture, reheat the baked brie in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes, or until warmed throughout. Always check the center to ensure it’s thoroughly heated.
Serving: Enjoy best when freshly baked, but if you have leftovers, simply reheat to savor the comforting flavors of this delightful appetizer.
Make Ahead Options
These Maple-Cranberry Baked Brie are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cranberry jam up to 3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can assemble the entire brie wrapped in puff pastry and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to cover it with plastic wrap to prevent the pastry from becoming soggy. When you’re ready to serve, simply brush the pastry with egg wash and sprinkle it with turbinado sugar before baking. You’ll have a delightful, warm appetizer that’s just as delicious as when made fresh!
Maple-Cranberry Baked Brie Recipe FAQs
What kind of cranberries should I use for the jam?
Absolutely! You can use either fresh or frozen cranberries for this delicious Maple-Cranberry Baked Brie. If you can’t find cranberries, feel free to substitute with other berries, such as blueberries or raspberries, for a different flavor twist.
How do I store leftover baked brie?
To keep your Maple-Cranberry Baked Brie fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It’s best to leave it in the original pastry to maintain some crispiness.
Can I freeze baked brie?
Yes! You can freeze Maple-Cranberry Baked Brie before baking. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, bake from frozen—just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
What should I do if the jam is too runny?
If your cranberry jam turns out too runny, don’t worry! Return it to the stove and add an additional teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with a little water to thicken it up. Stir continuously over medium heat until it reaches your desired consistency.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Absolutely! For those with dairy allergies, you can substitute brie with a non-dairy cheese alternative. If you have gluten restrictions, use gluten-free puff pastry and flour for dusting. Always check labels on your maple syrup and other ingredients for potential allergens.
How can I make this dish more festive?
To elevate your Maple-Cranberry Baked Brie, consider adding nuts like walnuts or pecans to the cranberry jam for an extra crunch. You can also infuse the jam with fresh herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, for a unique flavor profile that perfectly complements the seasonal ingredients.
Maple-Cranberry Baked Brie That Will Steal the Show
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Jam: In a saucepan, combine frozen or fresh cranberries, granulated sugar, pure maple syrup, finely grated orange zest, fresh orange juice, cornstarch, kosher salt, and ground cinnamon. Cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens and bubbles, about 10-15 minutes.
- Shape the Brie: Roll out the frozen puff pastry on a lightly floured surface until it’s about 1/8 inch thick. Place the brie cheese in the center, ensuring the sides remain open to showcase the delicious filling.
- Assemble: Spoon the warm cranberry jam generously over the brie. Fold the corners of the pastry up over the edges of the cheese, leaving some gaps for the beautiful filling to peek through.
- Bake: Brush the pastry generously with a beaten egg for a golden shine. Sprinkle turbinado sugar over the pastry, then place it in a preheated oven at 375°F and bake until golden brown and flaky, about 25-30 minutes.