This Baked Brie cranberries walnuts recipe creates the ultimate holiday appetizer with creamy melted cheese, sweet cranberries, and crunchy walnuts. It comes together in just 22 minutes using simple ingredients and transforms any gathering into a special occasion. The warm, gooey center paired with maple-kissed toppings makes this dish irresistible for both casual entertaining and festive celebrations.

How to Make Baked Brie with Cranberries and Walnuts

I first discovered this flavor combination during a winter market visit in Vermont, where the aroma of warm brie mingled with maple syrup and toasted nuts created an unforgettable sensory experience. Now, this baked brie has become my signature holiday starter, often served alongside my cranberry orange bread for a complementary sweet-savory pairing. The ritual of gathering around this bubbling cheese wheel feels both elegant and comforting, making it perfect for Thanksgiving feasts or cozy winter evenings with a glass of wine.

What Makes This Baked Brie Special

Effortless Elegance: Impress guests with minimal preparation and maximum flavor impact.
Perfect Texture Balance: Enjoy the contrast of creamy cheese, chewy cranberries, and crunchy walnuts.
Quick Preparation: Ready in under 30 minutes from start to serving.
Versatile Serving Options: Pairs beautifully with crackers, bread, or fresh fruit accompaniments.

What You’ll Need for Perfect Baked Brie

Be sure to see the recipe card below for the full listing of ingredients, instructions, notes, and estimated nutritional information.

Brie cheese: Choose a high-quality wheel with a creamy, buttery flavor profile.
Dried cranberries: Provide sweet-tart contrast to the rich cheese.
Walnuts: Add crunch and earthy notes that complement the maple syrup.
Maple syrup: Use pure grade for the best flavor and natural sweetness.

Baked Brie with Cranberries and Walnuts

Indulge in warm baked Brie with cranberries and walnuts. This easy 22-minute appetizer features melty cheese topped with sweet maple syrup. Perfect for entertaining!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 12

Total Time 27

Course Appetizer

Cuisine American

Servings 1 wheel

Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

oven
baking sheet
small bowl
spoon
sharp knife
cutting board
measuring spoons
measuring cups

Ingredients

Brie Topping

1/4 cup dried cranberries
1/4 cup walnuts chopped
2 tablespoons maple syrup

Cheese

1 (8-ounce) wheel Brie cheese

Instructions

Adjust an oven rack to the middle position and preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a small baking sheet with parchment paper or place a small oven-safe dish, such as a cast iron skillet or ceramic baker, on the counter.
In a small bowl, combine the dried cranberries, chopped walnuts, and maple syrup. Stir gently with a spoon until the mixture is well combined and the cranberries and walnuts are evenly coated.
Carefully unwrap the wheel of Brie cheese and place it in the prepared baking dish or onto the parchment-lined baking sheet. For a slightly more dramatic melt and to allow the topping to settle, you may score the top rind of the Brie in a crosshatch pattern using a sharp knife, being careful not to cut all the way through the cheese.
Spoon the cranberry-walnut mixture evenly over the entire top surface of the Brie wheel, spreading it to cover.
Transfer the baking dish or sheet to the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is visibly softened and gooey when gently pressed, and the center is thoroughly melted. The rind will contain the melting cheese.
Carefully remove the baked Brie from the oven. Let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the cheese to set slightly, which will make it easier to scoop and serve.
Serve the warm baked Brie immediately with your favorite crackers, toasted baguette slices, or fresh apple wedges for a delightful appetizer.

Notes

For a slightly more dramatic melt, score the top rind of the Brie. Let it rest for 5 minutes after baking for easier serving.

Keyword baked brie, cranberries, walnuts

Ways to Customize Your Baked Brie

Citrus Twist: Add orange zest to the cranberry mixture for bright flavor.
Spiced Version: Incorporate cinnamon or nutmeg for warm holiday notes.
Savory Option: Replace cranberries with rosemary and thyme for herbal notes.

Secrets to Perfect Baked Brie Every Time

Quality Ingredients: Use a good brie wheel that melts smoothly and evenly.
Proper Scoring: Lightly score the top rind to help the topping penetrate.
Resting Time: Let the brie rest after baking for easier serving.
Even Topping Distribution: Spread the cranberry walnut mixture evenly across the surface.

Cozy Serving of Baked Brie with Cranberries and Walnuts

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Store: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freeze: Not recommended due to texture changes in the dairy component.
Reheat: Warm in oven at 350°F for 8-10 minutes until melted again.
Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the topping mixture up to 2 days in advance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

I recommend sticking with dried cranberries for this recipe. Fresh cranberries contain more moisture and would make the topping too watery. If you only have fresh, cook them down with sugar first to create a compote consistency.

Should I remove the rind from the brie?

Keep the rind intact as it helps contain the melted cheese. The rind becomes soft and edible after baking, adding texture contrast. If you prefer, you can carefully remove the top rind after scoring.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cranberry-walnut mixture up to 2 days in advance. Store it separately in the refrigerator, then assemble and bake just before serving. The flavors actually improve with brief marinating.

What can I serve with baked brie?

This brie pairs beautifully with crackers, sliced baguette, apple wedges, or pear slices. For a complete spread, consider serving it with my apple muffins or alongside other cheese board elements.

Other Favorite Appetizer Recipes

Why This Baked Brie Becomes a Favorite

With its luxurious melted texture and perfect sweet-savory balance, this baked brie transforms simple ingredients into an extraordinary appetizer. The combination of creamy cheese, tart cranberries, and crunchy walnuts creates a sensory experience that feels both elegant and comforting. It’s the kind of dish that gathers people around the table and creates lasting holiday memories with minimal effort.

Cranberry Walnut Baked Brie